CC design trends
“It is extremely encouraging for Maltese architects – who, in recent times, have shared a tarnished reputation with the local construction industry – to see their colleagues producing architecture with a capital ‘A’ outside of our shores.” – Chris Briffa, Chris Briffa Architects
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2019
transporting guests into a transcendental experience. The brief called for a five-bedroom guest house and entertainment facilities which would take advantage of the site’s spectacular views while safeguarding the privacy of celebrity guests and diplomats at the same time. It also called for a spacious lounge, dining and pool areas, together with spa, gym and event facilities that would host individuals, groups and special events such as formal occasions and live concerts. The project went through many design challenges, with both the structural limitations of building on a man-made island at sea level as well as the extreme local weather conditions becoming constant trials during the design process. The result is an exceptional feat. Hospitality perks include a 33m-long solid travertine breakfast bar, which doubles up as a guest kitchen, extends to the outside for BBQ grills and descends into the pool to serve bathing patrons. Behind it, an equally long serrated wall of teak and glass offers shelving, storage, lighting and hidden services, craftily camouflaging the structuralspine of the cantilever counterweight, allowing natural light to filter through its floor to ceiling windows.
Beyond the sleek and dramatic exterior entrance of the Reef Guest House lies a calm haven that never fails to inspire the awe of its visitors. Its magic lies in its perfectly calibrated proportions, the interaction of its simple lines and shadow play, and the harmonious marriage of beauty and utility. The meticulous attention to detail is apparent in every corner and the sober selection of materials brings it all together in a true poetry of form and function. Speaking of the International Project Award, Chris explains that “it is extremely encouraging for Maltese architects – who, in recent times, have shared a tarnished reputation with the local construction industry – to see their colleagues producing architecture with a capital ‘A’ outside of our shores.” And, in this case, such was the quality of the project that it was also awarded the President’s Award for Best Overall Project, which Chris maintains “overwhelmed and stunned” the team at Chris Briffa Architects. “We have always strived for the highest standards in design and architecture, at times paying prices surely nobody likes to bear. When our work gets recognised and acknowledged in this way, it inspires us to roll up our sleeves and press on!” cc
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