Project: Scala Apartment
Architects: Chris Briffa Architects
Location: Valletta, Malta
Year: 2022
Photographs: Hanna Briffa
Scala Apartment, the latest project by Chris Briffa Architects, celebrates the ten-year anniversary of Valletta Vintage with the creation of five newly refurbished apartments. Each apartment is uniquely designed, blending vintage and mid-century pieces, and is inspired by a specific theme that gives each space its distinct character.
A Musical Journey Through Design
The central staircase of Scala Apartment, a beautifully restored structure, serves as the heart of the building and inspires the musical theme that defines each apartment. Named DO, RE, MI, FA, and SOL, each note corresponds to a different floor, symbolizing a climb up the musical scale. The staircase, with its whitewashed limestone blockwork, winds upward, allowing the apartments to bask in the bright Mediterranean light that floods through the building.
Diverse Themes for Each Apartment
Each of the five apartments within Scala is designed with a unique concept, reflecting the diversity and creativity of the project. The interiors feature a playful mix of vintage and mid-century furnishings, carefully chosen to resonate with the theme of each space. These design choices create a distinct atmosphere in each apartment, offering a unique experience for guests while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic across the entire project.
A Rooftop with a View
The rooftop level of Scala Apartment offers a breathtaking view of Valletta’s harbor, providing a serene escape in the heart of the city. Sheltered by green pergolas, this rooftop space adds a dreamlike quality to the building, connecting the historical architecture with the beauty of the Mediterranean landscape.
Restoration and Transformation
The project involved converting a dilapidated 18th-century house into these five distinctive apartments, each one meticulously designed to offer a blend of historical charm and modern comfort. The restoration process preserved the original character of the building while introducing contemporary elements that enhance the overall experience for guests.
Scala Apartment by Chris Briffa Architects is a masterful example of how historical restoration can be combined with modern design to create spaces that are both functional and evocative. Each apartment, with its unique theme and careful attention to detail, offers a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of Valletta.
