HOMEWORKS 12

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HOMEWORKS

Welcome to

HOMEWORKS 12 edition. th

Spring time! Colours are appearing in the countryside: riots of vibrant yellows, dashed with strong blues and purples with the overhead canopies of delicate tree blossoms featuring hues of soft whites and pinks; all of which are anchored in a bed of luscious and rich shades of greens. Nature provides us with an inspirational and forever changing seasonal colour palette.

Colour is important in our lives. We use colour as a virtual extension of the way we perceive ourselves and project ourselves to others. Our personal approach to colours can be observed for what we select to wear for the occasion. At home or in our office we select colour to ‘live’ with for the time we will spend and for what we will be doing while in that particular environment.

Colour influences our perceptions both consciously and subconsciously and has a vital effect on our day-to-day existence . . . whether we are in the know or not.

Our feature article by Interior Designer Katja Wiedersum delves into the world of colour, its use in the home environment and explains the art of colour and how to make colour ‘work’.

Interior Designers Carlo and Stefania Schembri write about their approach to satisfying the dream of a Norwegian couple who had a very specific lifestyle on land and at sea. The design and colour created for their land based Portomaso apartment combines lifestyle, modern comfort with a clever nautical theme.

Lisa Borain meets with Interior Designer Katja Wiedersum in her Sliema apartment and learns first-hand what Katja understands about colour usage and how she has applied colours to make a vibrant living environment for her family...

Jason Jones explains his vision for purchasing his first home and transforming it into a modern vibrant residence and through creative collaboration with his girlfriend they have achieved their dream in living colour.

Landscape Design is a professional service that is becoming sought after in Malta. Maria Elena Scodanibbio speaks about the role of the landscape designer in making a home out of a house and garden.

Paulene Attard is a ceramic artist and colour virtually blooms in her works. Paulene frequently travels and HOMEWORKS relates how these excursions influence her and the colour in her art.

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IN LIVING COLOUR

BY KATJA WIEDERSUM

030 FLAT OUT BRIGHT, FIRST TIME RIGHT

BY MICHAEL J MUMFORD

Colour on . . .

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HOMEWORKS

015, 017, 051, 067, 075, 077 079 HOMEIDEAS - GREAT GIFT IDEAS

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SPICE IT UP WITH COLOUR

BY CHEF JOE VELLA

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FOR THE LOVE OF COLOUR

BY LISA BORAIN

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KATJA WIEDERSUM THE QUEEN OF COLOUR

BY LISA BORAIN

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COASTAL COLOUR

BY CARLO & STEPHANIA SCHEMBRI

007 HOMEWINNERS 009 HOMENEWS 018 The Queen of Colour 030 Flat Out Bright, First Time Right

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LANDSCAPING IT

BY PETER CALAMATTA & MARIA ELENA SCODANIBBIO

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040 In Living Colour 048 For The Love Of Colour 052 Coastal Colour 060 Landscaping It 068 Spice It Up With Colour 080 Who's Afraid Of Colour?

087 HOMEWORKS A to Z of SUPPLIERS

WHO'S AFRAID OF COLOUR? 003

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HOMEWORKS

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Issue 12.05

OUR READERS WRITE ON ISSUE 11

HOMEWORKS is a bimonthly publication inserted in The Sunday Times and is published by:

Every ISSUE we invite our readers to send us their comments and opinions on what they like or would like to see in HOMEWORKS “How about having contemporary Maltese artists interviewed in your magazine and having pictures of their works of art in local interiors? So many of us are interested in art and flock to exhibitions but can we have more of them inside our homes?”

Frances Busuttil

This Edition: Editor Assoc. Editor Design

“As I am only a DIY beginner, I would like to see an article on a celebrity who is known for his DIY skills giving out valuable advice on how he/she repairs or maintains their household.”

Jason Mizzi

Michael J Mumford Lisa Borain

MAS Communications

Art direction

David Sciberras Marc Spiteri

Designer

David Sciberras

Photography

MAS Studio Alexandra Pace

Contributors Peter Calamatta Carlo & Stefania Schembri Katja Wiedersum Advertisement Sales

“I think it would be interesting to read about the various qualities of tiles available on the market and have some information on which tiles are best for the Maltese home as well as how to obtain various effects by mixing and matching colours, sizes, inserts, etc., giving a home either a classical or modern style.”

Alessandro Caselli

HOMEWINNERS 11TH EDITION… HOMECOMPETITION Congratulations to Frank Tabone – our eleventh Homeworks reader suggestion winner. Frank has won the Bodum Coffee Lovers Set, courtesy of Living Interiors.

Frank wrote:

(2133 9999)

Alberto E Serra Pre-press and Printing Progress Press

“Dear Homeworks Team, First of all well done for HOMEWORKS and keep it up!

ISSUE 12 PRIZE

WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK Please forward your ideas outlining what you would like to see published within HOMEWORKS. THE PERSON SUBMITTING THE MOST INTERESTING IDEA/CONCEPT WILL RECEIVE A ROYAL WORCESTER BONE CHINA SQUARE TRAY AMAZON. COURTESY OF GIO BATTA DELIA, FERRERIA PALACE, REPUBLIC STR. VALLETTA.

PRICE: LM25.50

Postal Address / E-mail WriteOn Ltd. P. O. Box 48 Msida, Malta info@writeon.com.mt

HOMEWORKS is a registered trademark of WriteOn Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the Publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. Dates, information and prices quoted are believed to be correct at time of going to press but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions. Neither the editor no publisher accept responsibility for any material submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. While we endeavour to ensure that firms and organisations mentioned are reputable, the editor can give no guarantee that they will fulfil their obligations under all circumstances. © 2005

I think that it would be a great idea if a home magazine featured a detailed article about the colour wheel, where use, definition and application of colour are explained in our Maltese homework context.”

Frank Tabone

HOMEWORKS invites readers to send their comments, opinions and suggestions for what they would like to see and read in future issues.

Send your ideas to: HOMEWORKS Feedback,P. O. Box 48 Msida, Malta. or email: info@writeon.com.mt

HOMEWORKS needs you!

HOMEWORKS READERS are invited to submit interesting photographs and a brief description of their homes which may be distinct in their architectural design. Of particular interest are homes that offer outstanding elements of living spaces both interior and exterior. HOMEWORKS will select the best submissions for future features. Send a photo and information to the attention of The Editor, Writeon Ltd., P. O. Box 48, Msida, Malta or info@writeon.com.mt (photos will not be returned)

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HOMENEWS THE LATEST INDUSTRY HAPPENINGS

SPRING COLLECTION FROM HOULES (PARIS) AND SAHCO HESSLEIN Design House in Dingli Str. Sliema has just launched this spring’s collection of contemporary curtain rods and accessories by the leading French firm Houles.

These original rods in stainless steel with Wenge and ivory finishes, have the contemporary look needed to make any window dressing different and unique.

Design House is also presenting this spring’s collection of sumptuous upholstery and drapery fabrics exclusively designed by Ulf Moritz for the ‘Editeur’ fabric house, Sahco Hesslein of Germany.

ISTILL AT SINGWAYS After the successful launch of Singways, Carmelo Delia will soon introduce Istill, a new range of modern furniture offering top quality and elegant products at affordable prices, aimed at providing a home that reflects one’s dreams; expressing one’s personality and desires.

The vast range of Istill products include living rooms, sofas, accessories, lighting, paintings, rugs, dining rooms, bedrooms and office furniture, amongst others.

Complimented by a professional team of representatives, Singways offer the services of an in-house interior designer. Istill at Singways, Valley Road, B’Kara.

ISA BAGNI AT B&M Designer range of clear glass counter tops and basins by Isa Bagni meet today’s high demands for practicality and flexibility for the modern day bathroom. These tops and basins are offered in a wide selection of shapes and sizes to meet the most discerning of personal tastes. The design and quality address issues of safety, functionality and convenience.

The latest range may be viewed at the B&M showrooms B’kara By Pass, B’kara

THE BATHROOM ACCORDING TO ALBERTO ALESSI Design excellence, creativity, poetry and functionality were all combined in the creation of Il Bagno Alessi – the up-market designer bathroom by Laufen. The curves evoke the motherly embrace whilst the Wondergliss finish enhances the hygienic expectations of today’s hectic life. The availability of various models, freestanding or wall hung; satisfy the exigencies of different tastes and space.

Il Bagno Alessi can be viewed and appreciated at Banju Boutique, Paola.

LES CREATIONS Tanti Interiors brings the exciting fabric range from Les Creations imported exclusively from Spain.

These fabrics will excite your home using linens, cottons and silk to bring your personal style to completion.

Les Creations offers a wide and varied range of collections and has fabrics and styles suitable for all design needs. The Les Creations range is available from Tanti Interiors with a 10% exclusive discount for Homeworks readers. Tanti Interiors, 52 Mrabat Street, Sliema.

AUNTIE LUCY LAUNCHES B&B ITALIA

B&B Italia, part of Bvlgari Group has been a leading company in the field of contemporary furnishings since its founding in 1966. Auntielucy (at Bay Street) recently welcomed B&B Italia to its high profile furnishings portfolio.

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HOMENEWS BUY INTO THE FUTURE Doneo have recently moved to their new premises in Mountbatten Street, Hamrun where part of the store has been converted into a fully integrated smart apartment to demonstrate what they can offer by giving customers a living example of their latest technology and the way they go about implementing an intelligent home project.

You can poke the buttons of every new bit of technology you come across – everything you could possibly ever need to live the true smart life, tucked neatly into one convenient space. What more could you ask for?

VIVA SRL The latest ranges presented by Tile Deco, “Textura”, “Melange”, and “Haute Couture”, by Viva Srl are inspired by the current trends in the furniture and textile worlds. Viva Srl, trend setters in tile design, are represented exclusively by Tile Deco.

CUCINE EXPORT Carmelo Delia introduces Cucine Export - kitchens created with an eye for design, materials and accessories - a new range of Italian kitchens designed for the discerning buyer who wants a quality product at an affordable price; kitchens that combine spending capability and personal taste, giving buyers their ideal kitchen at a price they can easily afford. Cucine Export at Big Bon, Ground Floor Level, Naxxar Road, B’Kara.

WINDOOR SYSTEMS OPENS AT MSIDA Windoor systems, the newly launched architectural wood furnishings and home improvements showcase, is the new place to visit for the latest innovative exterior louvered wood windows and doors. Stylish interior doors and a collection of laminate and parquet flooring in all the fashionable decors available. Wood and steel staircases and more can all be viewed at FXB The Emporium, Level 4B, Rue d’Argens, Msida.

OUTDOOR GARDEN FURNITURE The new ‘Le Terrazze’ Garden Furniture collection from Pircher is one the latest novelties found at the Fino showroom. ‘Le Terrazze’ collection is available in Teak, Acacia and Pine and every piece is resistant to humidity and heat.

View the full range of Pircher Garden Furniture at C. Fino & Sons Ltd. Mriehel, and get prepared for your relaxing summer evenings.

WAX CRYSTALS Gifts&More at Topline, St. Andrew’s and Embassy in Valletta have introduced Wax Crystals on the island. This is an innovative form of wax grains sold in packets or in stylish, contemporary wooden displays. Not only are they economical, but also multi functional. Pour the crystals into a glass bowl filled with water and get that snow floating on water look. One must light the wicks to get the mellow, romantic, ambiance only the original ‘ Wax Crystals’ are able to create.

Do you have HOMENEWS?

We want your feedback. Please forward any news items that you would like to see published within HOMEWORKS and we’ll

tell the rest of Malta!

Send in your news to:

HOMEWORKS News, P. O. Box 48, Msida, Malta. e:mail info@writeon.com.mt

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HOMEIDEAS Paints. Add colour to your home, with this new range of designer paints by Nina Campbell and David Oliver.

Starting from Lm2.25.

Found exclusively at Ambiente, San Gwann.

Tel: 2137 6481.

L’occitane. New harvest stocks now in. Starting from Lm0.50. Ambiente, San Gwann.

Tel: 2137 6481.

Oleographs.

A unique and high quality picture that captures all the colour, craquelure texture and character of an original painting. Available on canvas or panel. Starting from Lm19.95. Found exclusively at Ambiente, San Gwann.

Tel: 2137 6481.

Hand cut crystal fruit vases available in blue, green, purple, prices starting from Lm30.00; unique hand painted collectable wine decanters from Lomonosov Porcelain factory in Russia, St. Petersburg, prices starting from Lm26.00; hand cut crystal candleholders, prices starting from Lm7.50 each. Discounts are offered on engagement and wedding lists during the months of April and May. “Divo”, porcelain & crystal gallery, 31, Labour Ave, Naxxar.

Tel:2143 7908.

Hurricane Lamp.

Hurricane Lamp in recycled glass ideal for your summer entertainment outdoors. Starting from Lm5.25.

Found exclusively at Ambiente, San Gwann.

Tel: 2137 6481.

“MUSKA” for your home.

From the home specialist in Balzan comes a new series of cutting edge ideas for contemporary lifestyles. “Muska” has extended its modern living styles to now also include enchanting gifts, exquisite hand crafted decorative items, ceramic products, inspirational pieces and more. At a price that’s right for you too! “Muska”, 24, Main Street, Balzan.

Tel: 2144 5556.

This Collection of 12 Zodiac Figures was created by Christel for Royal Copenhagen and are made in the finest white bisque porcelain. Featured here are Leo, Capricorn and Sagittarius.

Each figure retails at Lm65.00 and are available at Gio. Batta Delia - Republic Street, Valletta.

Tel: 2123 3618, email: customerservice@giobattadelia.com.

INTERESTING IDEAS 015

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HOMEIDEAS Yankee Candles®. Famous for fragrancesTM, the best selection, the highest quality, the finest ingredients. Nowhere else will you find so many fragrances and colours from which to choose. We literally have something to please anyone and everyone. Makes the ideal gift. We use NO lead core wicks in any of our candles.

Available from Arkadia Shopping Complex, Gozo and other retail outlets. Trade enquires The Lawn Company Limited.

Tel: 21380639, 9947 0926.

Oriental Set by Typhoon. Simply spectacular! Typhoon’s east meets west ceramic and bamboo accessory sets redefine affordable sophisticated dining. Beautiful crackle glaze ceramics, hand carved and crafted bamboo with a twist! Our impressive collection of core classic cookware pieces are designed to perform, giving a cast iron guarantee to add wow to your kitchen. Available exclusively at Living Interiors, Luqa Briffa Street Gzira.

Tel: 2134 1166.

Caleca’s Girasole Design reflects with elegance their solar Mediterranean origin.

Absolutely non-toxic the Caleca ceramics are produced using glazes and colours that do not contain cadmium or lead and are dishwasher safe. Available at Junction 66 Tower road Sliema Tel: 2133 4451.

PACE. The contemporary experience - Chrome alarm clock and Mono Collage photo frame are just an example of a new range available from Junction 66 Tower Road Sliema and Arkadia Gozo.

Tel: 2133 4451.

Innovative photo boxes and jewelry boxes. Available at Junction 66 Tower Road Sliema and Arkadia Gozo.

Tel: 2133 4451.

2005 is the Bicentenary of the birth of the famous Hans Christian Andersen. To mark this occasion Royal Copenhagen have created a collection of hand painted figurines which interpret some of his best-known fairy tales as well as Votive Cottages and plates. Prices from Lm5.90 for the plaquettes and Lm22.50 for the figurines. Gio. Batta Delia - Republic Street, Valletta. Tel: 21 233618. email:customerservice@giobattadelia.com

Small, large, narrow or tall – you need a vase, we have them all. Just received an amazing selection of artificial flowers for that everlashing gift. The SALE you have been waiting for will start on Monday April 18th from 9.00am till 3.00pm and will go on for 2 weeks at ‘Fiorita’, Triq il-Gabilott, Swieqi. Fantastic reductions on several items and furniture.

Available at Perfect Match, Ta’ L-Ibragg Road St. Andrews.

Tel: 2138 0743.

ECLECTIC IDEAS 017

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HOMEWORKS

Katja Wiedersum

The Queen of Colour RENOWNED FOR HER AMAZING USE OF COLOUR, INTERIOR DESIGNER KATJA WIEDERSUM TAKES HOMEWORKS INTO HER VIBRANTLY SPACIOUS SLIEMA APARTMENT. 018

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HOMEWORKS

Clear Acrylic panel “divides� the sitting room from the dining room. The prodominant colours of tourquoise and lime were chosen to pick up the blues and greens of the views outside.To the left, a big mirror reflects leafy plants and natural light streaming in. To the right, sandblasted glass and mirrors behind the sofa has the same reflective effect.

WORDS: LISA BORAIN PHOTOS: MAS 019

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HOMEWORKS

K

Detail of Curtain Fabric with small appliqued beads.

Candles create reflection.

atja Wiedersum loves colour. Not the pseudo use of the word, but real, plain old-fashioned colour. Her spacious Sliema townhouse is an absolute kaleidoscope of vibrancy, each room downright owning its own mood.

Like the interior design, the colouring is not random; everything is done for a reason. The décor is an eclectic mix of things Katja and her husband like. Thus she follows no rules to a specific style and creates that of her own. “I don’t think people should have to be restricted to keeping a certain style. I think that by putting things that you love together you create your own style.”

Upon entrance there is a neutrally coloured hallwayalmost a complete contrast to the rest of the living spaces (save for the bedrooms and bathrooms that are also neutrally based) and heeding no warning to the burst of colour that soon lies ahead.

The first sign of the eclecticism is the glass trough – home to an assortment of healthy plants in front of a huge African style mirror that gives off a jungle feel.

Then there is the turquoise and lime living room. “I was pregnant when I chose the colour scheme for this room and everyone thought I was losing it with the hormones. They didn’t want to argue with me so they let me have my way. I had my boy about two years ago and I still love it!"

I feel very comfortable with these colours and I don’t agree with the idea that you get fed up with vibrant colours. It’s difficult and easy. Difficult because I have to be careful how I bring things together. It’s easy because I have a specific colour to stick to and there’s a boundary in this sense.”

A glass shelf runs alongside the wall of the room.

Because the glass shelf is quite contemporary and is at risk of looking cold, Katja placed a cluster of candles to add warmth as well as to take advantage of the reflective effect.

Although the style is diverse, there are certain continuations - patterns are repeated (gold-stencilled motifs around the room were taken from the pattern of the cushion fabric) and materials are similar (parallel to the built in glass shelf, an individual glass shelf unit was custom made in order to avoid light obstruction as well as to allow light through to the coloured glasses).

Although there is no barrier or door in between the living and dining area, the spaces are unobtrusively divided by the change of wall material (it becomes glass) and a hanging plastic divider.

Katja and Damian relaxing with Miki.

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I feel very comfortable with these colours and I don’t agree with the idea that you get fed up with vibrant colours.�

Mirrors from modern to classic hang right accros the main wall.

Various candles line up along a glass shelf at varying heights.

These when lit, create flickered reflections in the mirrors above.

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HOMEWORKS The Dining Room

Tourquoise and lime green was contrasted with antique golds in the Sitting room, whereas the Dining Room was accented with chromes and Silvers.

The Dining Table with chrome legs, was custom made to incorporate a sash of purple fabric, protected by glass.

The crystal lights and use of chrome continues the reflective theme.The metallic Silver band of colour cuts right across the four surrounding walls.

With the idea in mind that the dining room is mostly used in the evenings, Katja went a little darker with this room. To create a French Bohemian feel, she went with the colour purple, making the mood romantic.

There is an extensive use of silver and mirrors to enhance the candlelight and make the room more shimmery and moody. The theme is extended through the crystals hanging from the chandelier and masks aligning the walls.

The pattern of the fabric in the middle of the dining table is a repeat of the living room turquoise cushions and the gold-stencilled motifs on the walls of the living room.

The main shelves are made of a dark wood and chrome – a clever way to display the glasses and silver without having to lock them away. Another shelf unit is made of MDF with a mirror backing (to evade the danger of the area looking dark and dead) and painted the same colour as the rest of the wood furniture.

Purple French Bohemian style.

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HOMEWORKS The Study

A framed antique Indian fabric hangs beneath a beaded striped, muslin canopy. Big floor cushions sit on wooden bases to give an ethnic feel.

The Orange walls were finished with a gold metallic wash to give a three-dimensional sheen. Morroccan motifs were handpainted around the room near the ceiling.

The central light fitting is made up of a mobile of Ostrich eggs.

This swings slowly around the room, reflecting in the glass covered shelving unit.Park wood helps keep the ethnic theme.

Because the study was a small and dark space, Katja chose not to fight it but to make the best of it by creating the cosiest room possible by using bright oranges and reds. To make the space interesting, there is a mixed ethnic theme– the Indian canopy, a Moroccan wooden coffee table, Indianstyle drapes, stencilled Moroccan motifs, African ostrich-egg lights & Indian baskets for paperwork.

Dark wood was used to keep the ethnic theme and Katja feels that through the colours and décor used, a room that could easily have been dreary has been made enjoyable to work in.

To keep the house as light as possible and compliment the glass surfaces, real maple wood was used for flooring throughout.

Although the idea of a turquoise and lime living room leading into a purple dining room or a red study might seem overwhelming to think about, Katja Weidersum has pulled it off. Her design style just goes to show that colour is not something to be afraid of – if used from the heart it can be overwhelmingly stunning.

Decor becomes easier when sticking to a specific colour scheme.

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Orange

HOMEWORKS Red

Often associated with: joy, sunshine, enthusiasm, fascination, happiness, creativity, determination, attraction, success, encouragement and stimulation.

To the human eye, orange is a very hot colour, so it gives the sensation of heat. Orange increases oxygen supply to the brain and is said to stimulate mental activity. It is highly accepted among young people. As a citrus colour, orange is associated with healthy food and stimulates appetite. In heraldry, orange is symbolic of strength and endurance.

Orange has very high visibility, so you can use it to catch attention and highlight the most important elements of your design.

Often associated with: energy, war, danger, strength, power, determination, passion, desire, and love.

An emotionally intense colour, red enhances human metabolism, increases respiration rate, and raises blood pressure. It has very high visibility, which is why stop signs, stoplights, and fire equipment are usually painted red. In heraldry, red is used to indicate courage.

Yellow Green

Often associated with: joy, happiness, intellect, and energy.

Yellow produces a warming effect, arouses cheerfulness, stimulates mental activity, and generates muscle energy. Yellow is often associated with food. Bright, pure yellow is an attention getter and when overused, may have a disturbing effect; it is known that babies cry more in yellow rooms. In heraldry, yellow indicates honour and loyalty.

Yellow is an unstable and spontaneous colour, so avoid using yellow if you want to suggest stability and safety.

Often associated with: nature, growth, harmony, freshness, fertility and safety.

Green is the most restful colour for the human eye and suggests stability and endurance. In heraldry, green indicates growth and hope.

Blue

Purple

Often associated with: sky, sea, depth, stability, trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth and heaven.

Blue is considered beneficial to the mind and body. It slows human metabolism and produces a calming effect. Blue is strongly associated with tranquillity and calmness. In heraldry, blue is used to symbolise piety and sincerity.

As opposed to emotionally warm colours like red, orange, and yellow; blue is linked to consciousness and intellect.

Often associated with: royalty, power, nobility, luxury, ambition, wealth, extravagance, wisdom, dignity, independence, creativity, mystery, and magic.

According to surveys, almost 75 percent of pre-adolescent children prefer purple to all other colours.

Purple is a very rare colour in nature; some people consider it to be artificial.

White Often associated with: light, goodness, innocence, purity, and virginity. It is considered to be the colour of perfection.

White means safety, purity, and cleanliness. As opposed to black, white usually has a positive connotation. White can represent a successful beginning. In heraldry, white depicts faith and purity.

Black Often associated with: power, elegance, formality and mystery.

Black is a mysterious colour associated with fear and the unknown (black holes).

It usually has a negative connotation (blacklist, black humour). Black denotes strength and authority; it is considered to be a very formal, elegant and prestigious colour. In heraldry, black is the symbol of grief.

Black contrasts well with bright colours.

Combined with red or orange – other very powerful colours – black gives a very aggressive colour scheme. HW

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Flat Out ...

First Time Right.

WORDS: MICHAEL MUMFORD PHOTOS: MAS 030

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A hint of Jason's passion for organising parties.

The mix of colour shades was done to balance the ambient lighting.

ason Jones’ challenge was finding his ‘sweet spot’ . . . the perfect home location and environment.

Jason was definitely up for the challenge.

He had a set budget.

He knew the general location that he and his girlfriend Graziella wanted to live in and they had a ‘wish list’ of ‘things’ with which to meet their needs.

Undaunted he set out with Graziella to chase down their dream. Time passed, nothing - they pressed on.

Different shades of white create an airy and light space.

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HOMEWORKS During a chance encounter with a friend, he mentioned his search for an apartment in the area. Once home she repeated to her husband what Jason had told her; he knew of an apartment that was just coming onto the market and the owner was looking for a very reasonable amount of money. The connection was made. Bingo!!

Jason, with wish list in-hand, took the tour of the apartment and the building and that was it. Deal Done.

Later when they took possession they both suffered from buyers’ remorse.

“Everything was in a terrible state, it probably looked like a brothel,” Jason recalls.

The flat had most of the items on their list of must haves: high elevation, views, good exposure and enough space that could be utilized for their living purposes.

Then the real fun began.

Jason took three months off from his work and set about to realize their visions.

The apartment consisted of three small bedrooms.

The front of the apartment had the views but was compartmentalized and mostly without the brightness offered from the vantage of the excellent exposure.

First he sought advice from an architect.

Jason recounted, “initially the architect’s report was good but not totally encouraging as one of the pillars partially obstructing the views was considered to be serving as a support structure, therefore, untouchable.” Somewhat deflated by this report, but not defeated, Jason selected a building contractor and explained his vision for renovating.

Clever thinking: space and comfort created by a walk-in closet / dressing room.

“I informed the contractor of everything that had been discussed with the architect, including the point about the structural support that could not be removed... the contractor eyed the support beam, stepped up to it and firmly struck it exclaiming in strong language that it was not an upper structure load bearer - I then saw what he meant as the top of the beam had slightly moved from its position at ceiling level.”

The kitchen was changed from grey to white.

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HOMEWORKS Jason says he immediately ordered the work to begin and started the planning of the finishing.

The apartment was reduced from a three bedroom to one large master bedroom with a balcony located at the rear and amalgamated with another bedroom to provide a custom walk in closet / dressing room.

The front of the apartment was completely opened forming one large living space encompassing: kitchen, dining and living room with large sliding glass doors opening onto the balcony.

Jason tells me he is a strong advocate for the modern and feels uncomfortable with traditional and formal living styles and decor. He wanted to decorate the flat totally in white but was persuaded to go with an off white. To make white work with the changing light conditions during the day they decided to mix colour shades of white to ensure there was a continuous balance whatever the ambient lighting conditions may be. The paint was applied onto the highly finished gypsum board.

They searched for the right floor cover and found bleached wood light grain eight- inch wood plank flooring laid throughout with the exception of the bathroom.

The kitchen proved to be the largest finishing expense. “We decided on a grey kitchen and had all the doors changed to white. It was worth it,” Jason says.

For the living room they purchased two cream sofas - one for style and one for comfort.

Jason commented: “If I were to make that decision over again, today I would choose a sofa bed which would really add to the comfort of the apartment. An L-shape setting makes the room look bigger as well.”

The dining room has a glass top table keeping the airiness of the room, allowing light to play. Jason shows me his controlled lighting installed into the ceiling... he can change the mood of the day or night with a switch and a dimmer. He gives me a demonstration and it works.

The neutral walls change shades and the room becomes warmer.

Great.

Jason is a strong advocate for the modern and feels uncomfortable with traditional and formal living.

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HOMEWORKS The master bedroom is unique and the selected light coloured wood has been used to make the bed, unusual fittings, shelves and hanging drawers in the closet/dressing room. Jason explains that he wanted to keep the wood light in keeping with the flooring and the general ambience.

The wood is solid Beech and is custom made to his design. Clean utility.

Unlike the most of the flat this room has a stronger colour at work . . . Electric Blue. “I tested different colours and this blue looked the best against the wood of the bed and the floors.”

Jason continues saying, “There was plenty of white already and I think it would have been stale if we were to keep the bedroom all white as well. The plants at the back of the bed give the room a feel as if the garden is coming in through the window.”

The blue was chosen because of its contrast with the light wood.

My tour wasn’t complete. The bathroom had been bypassed. I enquired what had they done and we moved there... Orange!

“When it came time to do the bathroom we had spent the budget. We wanted all the materials to be glass. The existing decor was really ugly ... grey and dark. We had to think and decided to go with a cheery orange in the meantime. We mixed the paint and started painting the doors and this evolved from there.

The orange feather boa around the mirror and the toilet tank along with the smiley face on

view when the toilet lid is raised make it all the more interesting. I’m sure that we wouldn’t have done it if we didn’t have plans to change it in the summer. I really like it though . . . and so does everyone that uses it.”

Opening the door to one’s own home, crossing the threshold into a serene environment of your own making is at the end of the day the very epitome of comfort. Not everyone can say they have reached that level . . . I feel Jason and Graziella have accomplished that . . . and then some. HW

When looking to purchase a home, know first where you would like to live.

Have your budget for the purchase price confirmed and stick to it.

Work with professionals and ask for a second opinion if you think one is warranted.

Have a budget for the interior finishing.

Research the market for furnishings etc.

Do not be afraid to experiment with colour and light.

Enjoy the process!

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In Living Colour

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INTERIOR DESIGNER KATJA WIEDERSUM DELVES INTO THE WORLD OF COLOUR – ITS ORIGINS, ITS CULTURAL INFLUENCES AND COLOUR GURU TRICIA GUILD’S EXCEPTIONS TO THE “RULES”.

Two similar settings with two very different colour schemes , giving two very different atmospheres.

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HOMEWORKS MONDAY IS PALE BLUE THURSDAY IS LIME GREEN FRIDAY IS BROWN SUNDAY IS PINK

W

e are fortunate to be living at a time when colour is available to everyone. Colour printing, colour photography and colour television are all relatively recent developments, and through these technological advances we are now able to acquire an entire visual education without even leaving the living room. Just two generations ago such constant exposure to colourful imagery was simply not available.

In decoration, too, colours of every conceivable hue are achievable and affordable – in wallpaper, paint, fabric carpet and ceramic tile, so it has become easier than ever before to use colour and to ‘live’ colour. An extraordinary powerful subject and a fascinating tool, colour can alter a domestic environment, enhance the mood of an interior and improve the quality of life within.

Despite this new accessibility, many people are still remarkably hesitant when it comes to applying colour in their own homes. There is a tendency to opt for muddy noncolours rather than positive ones and to cling to stale colour schemes that offer safe solutions.

Some people imagine that colour is tiring to live with, forgetting how dreary it is to sit in dull rooms without a spark of interest to stimulate the eye. Since civilization began, colour has been one of the principle ways in which we express our creativity and joie de vivre. No matter how dormant or under-used, colour sense can be brought back to life and encouragement blossomed.

For example, Tricia Guild has, “...since early childhood,

A tourquoise setting in a bedroom gives a cool , fresh ambiance.

experienced days of the week as particular colours: Monday is pale blue; Thursday is lime green; Friday is brown; Sunday is pink.”

“Colours are the mother tongue of the subconscious,” said Jung, and this is obvious from the central role that colour has played in folklore and religions over many centuries.

Nearly every colour at one time or in one culture or another has had spiritual connotations: colour is literally magic.

Colour is subjective. But despite the individual nature of our reactions and responses, it is important to look at how colour works – in theory and in practice, in nature, art and in science – before considering ways of using it successfully in our own surroundings.

The Art of Colour While the colour names we owe to nature may be beautifully evocative, for sheer precision it is hard to beat descriptions such as crimson, viridian, vermilion, burnt sienna, ultramarine and cerulean blue. The terminology associated with artists’ colours is rich and exact, making fine distinctions between different shades. We even see some colours through an artist’s eyes. Titian red, for example, is a descriptive term that has passed into everyday usage as a result of the strikingly original tones achieved by this Italian Renaissance painter.

Nowhere has colour been studied more intensely, its characteristics and potential explored more thoroughly than in the work of artists – from Piero della Francesca, Bellini and Vermeer to Monet, Van Gogh, Matisse and Kandinsky. All artists

A bedroom on a pink colour scheme gives a warm, romantic feel to the room.

have been concerned with colour; some have been obsessed by it.

Past or present, art in all its forms provides new ways of seeing and experiencing colour. Tricia Guild states, “I have been personally influenced by many painters, from Mark Rothko to David Bomberg.

Living artists whose work I find particularly inspiring for their use of colour include Frank Auerbach and Howard Hodgkin. Part of my philosophy at Designers Guild is to work with contemporary artists and I have commissioned both Howard Hodgkin and, more recently, Michael Heindorff to design textiles for our collections”.

While nature takes us back to basics, art can be a medium for heightening awareness, relating colour directly to the expression of feelings and ideas.

Making Colour Work Colour theory may appear to have little relevance when it comes down to the practical issues of choosing curtain fabric or paint, but a fundamental appreciation of how colour works can really help, especially when you are trying to compose a colour scheme using more than a couple of colours or variations of one basic shade.

Knowing which colours fall into a family that harmonizes naturally, which ‘vibrate’ and why some combinations don’t work at all can be of enormous assistance and help to create a vibrant, exciting and original colour scheme.

In a similar way you can use variables of colour tone and saturation to help understand how to put

together different combinations.

Colours that work in harmony together, such as lighter or darker shades of the same colour are naturally comfortable to the eye, while more exciting and dynamic combinations make use of a pair of complementary but ‘opposite’ colours such as red and green. By using a fraction of a complementary colour as a sharp accent you can set up more vibrant effects, perhaps offset by an intermediary shade.

Successful combinations often depend on getting the proportions right. A touch of contrasting colour is lively and refreshing; too much can be uncomfortable if blocks of vibrating colour are competing for attention.

Colour in the Interior One persistent decorating convention says that small rooms, particularly small dark rooms, should be decorated in light colours to open them out and make them less confining. This argument is often used to justify decorating halls in neutral shades. Tricia Guild doesn’t think so: “...on the contrary. Small rooms can take quite bright colours and it is far better to accept their limitations and give them a jewellike brilliance, which compensates for the lack of space”. In a situation where natural light levels are relatively low, strong colour intensifies and become richer, which is an added advantage. Warm colours - the reds, yellows and oranges are ‘advancing’, and it is this characteristic that makes rooms painted in warm shades seem welcoming and intimate.

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HOMEWORKS

Bold patterns with bold colour can look striking if balanced correctly.

Colour and Culture From cultural sources, we can really appreciate the excitement of intense colour. Unlike the subtle modulations of our traditional decorating palette, the saturated shades used in Greece and India are used in sharp contrasts to brighten and enliven houses, inside and out. The contrasts may underscore architectural detail, as the deep blues used to pick out frames and architraves on Greek island houses, or simply set up vibrating oppositions. Painted shutters, doors, verandas, balconies and window frames clash happily with walls in a joyous use of colour for its own sake.

In parts of the world where resources are limited, luxuries few and far between, it is the sheer richness of colour that delights the spirit! HW

A fun teenage bedroom can be created by using different patterns with different colour combinations, such as red and blue.

Tricia Guild Profile Tricia Guild founded Designers Guild in London in 1970, one of the most influential and creative forces in the world of interior design.

Since then, the company has achieved international renown for a wide variety of home and lifestyle products.

Designers Guild is headed by Tricia Guild, Founder and Creative Director and her brother Simon Jeffreys, Group

Chief Executive. Their business philosophy is to combine creativity and innovation with the highest levels of quality.

Tricia Guild oversees the entire creative process at Designers Guild from running the design studio to styling photography and advertising to directing the designs of numerous DG outlets worldwide. She actively remains the creative force

behind the company that she founded.

Her passionate contribution to the world of design is both distinctive and stimulating and she has received several awards including an honorary fellowship of the Royal College of Art, an honorary degree of Doctor of Technology from Loughborough University as well as the International Elle Decoration Award for

fabric design and The USA Elle DĂŠcor award for the best in wall coverings.

She has written 11 books on design and colour including Cut Flowers and White Hot. Her recent book Think Pink explores the way colour can change your mood. Why some places lift the spirits while others evoke a tranquil, contemplative mood.

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HOMEWORKS

Colour For the Love of

MOSAIC ARTIST AND WORLD TRAVELLER, PAULENE ATTARD ENJOYS A SPECTRUM OF DIFFERENT ACTIVITIES. SHE TALKS TO LISA BORAIN ABOUT HER PASSION FOR CREATION.

PHOTOS: MAS

Paulene loves to create things. In her words, “Art is a passion for me.” Even in her youth Paulene was always playing around with mosaics, designing her own clothes and creating recipes from scratch. She loves to take pictures. She loves to paint. Paulene Attard is in love with the art of creation.

You are the Director of your family business. Does this mean that your art is purely a hobby? My art is an absolute passion for me.

Maybe it’s because I use the left-hand side of my brain so much at work. Because my art is not a means to make a living, I have a lot of room to be creative and do what I want to do without having to worry what people want to buy. I actually started selling them because I didn’t have enough room to store them.

You make mosaics out of a spectrum of things. Is it just anything you can get your hands on? Yes! I love colour and anything to do with what’s alive and exciting.

I go to a lot of car boot sales and markets to buy old items that I can use to create something new out of. It amazes me what can be done with an old piece of furniture or something that someone has discarded. Common objects such as pebbles, beached glass, aluminium foil, shells, cutlery, broken pieces of porcelain and bone china can all be used as a medium whilst discarded items in a junkyard or at car boot sales and markets yell out to me to be covered with mosaics of sorts and turned into a one-off work of art. The possibilities are endless. Give me something and I’ll cover it!

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HOMEWORKS

There is a lot of work involved in these pieces...

A lot of work and dedication is involved in making mosaics.

It will take some time for people to realise just how much goes into it and how much time it takes. However, I do think the appreciation has improved.

“It amazes me what can be done with an old piece of furniture or something that someone has discarded.”

You’re an avid traveller. This must help inspire you...

My overseas trips inspire me immensely - the famous Taj Mahal in Agra, India; Antonio Gaudi’s famous works in Spain (especially the Sagrada Familia); the Royal Palace in Bangkok; the Byzantine mosaics in so many churches in Italy and other European cities; Roman Mosaics in Tunisia, Turkey, Cyprus and the UK; the underwater scenery at the Great Barrier Reef in Australia; modern architecture in cities such as Miami, Dubai, London and Frankfurt.

Life itself is a mosaic of different colours in the form of people, cultures, languages, food and customs. I’ll be travelling wherever and I won’t be able to help but see everything from an artistic view.

I am also inspired by the beauty that surrounds us in our daily lives without having to venture too far. I see everything in mosaics. A stunning sunset, a country scene, a visit to the beach in summer; looking up from my desk at work makes me imagine my files and brochures on my shelves as a patchwork of mosaic! Even the clothes I wear inspire me with their weave, colours and textures! I often find myself imaging things I come across in my daily routines as being covered from top to bottom in a dazzling array of colours and textures. So yes – without a doubt, going to different places keeps me alive. If I’m not alive I can’t create art.

Is there a cycle in your art?

I go through various stages in life and my art seems to reflect that. I’m happy. I’m happy and lucky. I love my career, adore my family and have the opportunity to pursue my passions.

How many pieces have you created?

Roughly 500 pieces.

Where do you get the glass?

I import Venetian glass from Italy because of its quality. I also do my own gold leaf. Sometimes I hand-paint the fish that I design myself. I also cut and design everything.

Is there a specific artist that has influenced you? I would not say that there is a particular artist that has been a source of inspiration for me, but it is a cocktail of inanimate things, characters and experiences that push me into pursuing this art I love so much!

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HOMEIDEAS

Gary Rhodes Collection

by Typhoon. A professional range of stunning products, intelligently designed for the passionate cook. Clean contemporary lines combine form, function and style in a range of beautiful products to prepare and present any culinary occasion. Using only the finest materials, fine porcelain, sleek stainless steel, seasoned beech wood and heat resistant silicone, the Gary Rhodes by Typhoon range includes essential pieces for your kitchen. Available exclusively at Living Interiors, Luqa Briffa Street Gzira.

Tel: 2134 1166.

Cutlery Set Tender. 24-pcs Crominox best in quality consisting of, 6 table forks, 6 table knives, 6 table spoons, 6 tea spoons.

Available only at (tks) The kitchen store member of Studio Moda Group, Naxxar road San Gwann. Lm23.85.

Foppapedretti Assai / Angel. Foppapeddretti makes the task of ironing easier and pleasant. The Assai ironing board has a wide surface and an adjustable height mechanism for your comfort, and folds away in one easy movement. The Assai ironing board and the Angel laundry basket come in natural wood and “noce” colours. Foppapedretti’s hallmark is ingeniously designed furniture that is aesthetically beautiful. Available exclusively at Living Interiors, Luqa Briffa Street Gzira. Tel: 2134 1166.

Foppapedretti Gulliver. The Gulliver clothes hanger from Foppapedretti is designed to hold a high capacity of clothes while in a very confined space. It is designed to be assembled and folded away very easily so that it is discreet when put away. The Gulliver comes in two finishes: white aluminium and “noce” wood. Foppapedretti’s hallmark is ingeniously designed furniture that is aesthetically beautiful.

Available exclusively at Living Interiors, Luqa Briffa Street Gzira.

Tel: 2134 1166.

The Campus Kitchen Sink is an example of brilliant design by the German manufacturer SCHOCK® with generously sized basins, a compact faucet platform, a narrow divider and easyto-clean contours. Made from the world famous Cristalite® material, these sinks are extremely hard and durable. PM HOBBY CENTRE, Zerafa Street, MARSA. Tel: 2124 2688 or 2122 0020.

Change your photos into an amazing artwork. Simply provide us with a digital image or print of you and your family or your friends and we’ll make it happen. Images are printed on canvas which is then stretched around a framework; ready to hang.

A variety of styles are available. For more information call on 2141 9820 or 79914306 or send an email to ed@keyworld.net.

Bread Box. 18/10 stainless steel, high-quality tempered glass. Functional and elegant – with rounded lid made of special glass. Ideal for keeping bread fresh. With non-slip feet.

Easy to clean. Available only at (tks) The kitchen store member of Studio Moda Group.Naxxar road San Gwann. Lm24.35.

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Coastal HOMEWORKS

INTERIOR DESIGNERS CARLO AND STEPHANIA SCHEMBRI OF DESIGN SOURCE MADE A NORWEGIAN COUPLE’S DREAM COME TRUE WHEN CREATING A NAUTICAL-THEMED PORTOMASO APARTMENT.

Colour

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HOMEWORKS

PHOTOS: ALEXANDRA PACE

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HOMEWORKS

I

n the midst of building their dreamboat, the Norwegian couple had a vision – to be able to see their boat from their living room window, somewhere in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. Malta was the choice, Portomaso the address.

The immense demands that came with building a boat left little time for the couple to do anything about the interior design of their newly acquired apartment, hence Carlo and Stephania were appointed to take over completely – from fundamental basics such as flooring to the final details and accessorising.

The layout of the apartment was based on the couple’s lifestyle. The theme was to be ‘nautical’ in order to reflect their love of yachting. The practical part was designing it in a way that could lend itself to entertainment as they frequently invite guests to their home.

Custom-made kitchen with lighter cherry timber.

“They still wanted to have their personal touches, but in keeping with the style of the apartment... and of course - they wanted to be able to see their boat from the living room,” Carlo says.

All materials used were of the highest quality.

As timber would be the leading material, Stefania chose to go with Wenge – not only because of the colour, but also because its quality.

Stefania began by asking the couple to choose three colours that she could base the scheme on. They opted for cream, turquoise and silver, which were the colours used on a boat model the couple had recently purchased from a well-known artist. The marina was the inspiration behind the turquoise, and the Maltese stone for the cream. “A lot of people take the stone colour for granted. It’s actually

a stunning colour and goes so well with blues.”

The colour scheme of turquoise, cream and silver is present throughout all areas of the flat.

“This is why the finishing looks so good. For example, the rug in the living room is made by hand using natural fibres – linen and wool, the dining room chairs made of highgrade genuine leather (resembling crocodile skin), the tiles throughout the apartment are marble, and with the exception of the kitchen all the timber is Wenge.

The furniture was designed not only for its aesthetic reasons, but also for its quality and durability. “The leather

used for the dining room chairs was chosen not only to give the dining room a cutting edge, but also because they are long lasting and hardwearing. This is essential as the proprietors have so many people over all the time.”

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HOMEWORKS The lighting was an enormous part in the colour scheme. “Because

a place has to be enjoyed at all times of the day, this really has to be taken into account before choosing a colour. Light can also add texture to a space through shadows. When you put soft lighting on the wood, you can see the details.

This also goes for the finishing. That’s why it’s essential that it’s finished properly and quality materials are used.”

Stefania and Carlo are believers in colour.

“We always try to be experimental. Sometimes, a client sees the colour coming along and backs out. They have to trust us.

Sometimes you need a base colour so that certain fabrics or décor can be emphasized. During the early stages when just the base colour has been painted, without the details, it can seem a little scary. One has to wait until it’s finished and then sit with it for a while. A different colour takes the eye only a bit of time to get used to.”

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Carlo’s advice on those thinking about experimenting with colour: “Visit some places where the colour is used as a feature. Have full trust in whoever is doing the colour scheme. When it is completed, sit in it for a while and give it time to grow on you. Remember that you have to see colour with the room’s content; it cannot be judged alone.

Colour has a lot to do with perception. My burgundy is not everyone’s burgundy. A colour brings about connotations. Let the designer know which colours you like and those that you don’t. With just that feed back the designer will take care of the rest and a final result will be a room of balance, comfort, flair and beauty.” HW Lighting plays an important part in projecting the colour setting.

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Landscaping It

MARIA ELENA SCODANIBBIO, LANDSCAPE DESIGNER OF PETER CALAMATTA NURSERY, GIVES HOMEWORKS AN INSIGHT ON HOW IMPORTANT LANDSCAPE DESIGN IS IN ORDER TO MAKE A HOME OUT OF A HOUSE AND GARDEN.

WORDS: PETER CALAMATTA & MARIA ELENA SCODANIBBIO PHOTOS: MAS

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Recently constructed, the garden layout focuses on this newly constructed country style chapel.

W

ith the growing awareness and importance given to gardens and landscaping in recent years, the role of the landscape designer has gradually become clearly defined. Nowadays the garden is a major part of most projects and a slice of the budget is allocated to landscaping works from the beginning.

This means that the relationship between architect, client and landscaper has gradually evolved.

In the past the architect gave little or no attention to exterior works in his designs and, if the landscaper was approached, it was only at the end of the planning or even building stage.

His contribution was therefore restricted to soft landscaping (soil, plant material, etc.) and often the final effect envisaged by the client or architect could not be realised due to bad initial planning, or at least lack of cooperation between the two parties.

Ideally, collaboration between architect and landscaper should begin at a very early stage in planning.

This is quite common in larger projects such as hotels or other large-scale developments, and less in small-scale residential projects but, as stated earlier, this is rapidly changing.

The hard landscaping concept usually originates from the architect but, in order to be implemented, the knowledge of the landscaper is essential and all aspects must be taken into account from the beginning. Practical issues such as planter heights, soil depth, electricity and water points, irrigation, passing of pipes and wind screens need to be dealt with in the initial phase of design. More aesthetic ones such as the positioning of planters follow these steps, vistas that need to be retained or visual screening obtained, colour schemes, etc.

A fine example of a Maltese farmhouse.

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HOMEWORKS

A classic garden design perfectly suited to the rustic setting of this traditional farmhouse.

The hard landscaping design may also be done exclusively by the landscaper and then discussed and defined with the architect. Hard landscaping includes elements such as paths, retaining walls, built or raised planters, water features, pergolas and gazebos, etc.

Another major step in the collaboration between the landscaper and the architect is the presentation of plans to MEPA for the issuing of the necessary permits.

In certain areas, especially rural areas or areas outside urban development, there are many restrictions that need to be taken into consideration. These affect both structural works and the choice of plants and the landscaper can be of great assistance in the preparation of these documents and in the many meetings required.

Metal frame ready to become home to rose bushes.

Martin Xuereb's first rough sketch of the Gharghur property.

1 The role of the landscape designer has only 2

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Points to consider for Garden Design

BY PETER V. CALAMATTA

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just started to be recognised by the clients and accepted by the architects.

Until a few years back architects were very suspicious of landscape designers and communication lines were very hard to establish.

Thanks to entrepreneurial gardens (hotels, airport, leisure parks etc.) and the requirements imposed by MEPA for soft landscaping (plant list, etc.) to be submitted prior to planning approval, the situation is changing fast even at the level of small to medium sized private gardens.

The interpretation of the new environmental laws in particular to rural vs. urban areas necessitates the full involvement of a landscape designer who is capable of weaving himself / herself through the web of MEPA officials who have their own agenda and tend to interpret the laws as they deem fit.

Clients on the other hand, seem reluctant to fork out money involved in a professional landscape design even though the costs are minimal when compared to the charges architects are covered by law to impose on their clients. The landscape designer has to spend hours on end with the clients to mitigate their needs with his design and

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also conduct numerous site visits. Since the landscape designer’s firm usually carries out the landscape installation charges for the design can be contained to a very reasonable amount depending on the size of the project.

Clients have to keep in mind that a landscape design is not only about plants.

It has to incorporate other aspects related to drainage, soil, water conservation, distribution of water, design of drip watering system, a lighting plan plus other features which involve hard landscaping such as paved areas, pathways, pools and pots, statuary, gazebos, shade areas and other requirements. The hard landscaping features may also need the intervention of the architect and the entire project is subject to MEPA approval.

Ideally the landscape designer is involved from the very beginning so that soft landscaping, hard landscaping and the buildings will be in harmony with each other, thus giving a total concept plan for the clients’ approval.

The modern approach is that the garden is indeed an outside room and as such should be considered as an integral part of the house and should exist in symbiosis with the house and its occupants.

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HOMEWORKS The 10 Commandments of Garden Design

STEP BY STEP TOWARDS A BEAUTIFUL GARDEN

1. Client’s Approach This first meeting between the client and the landscaper is perhaps the most important one.

During this meeting the fear of the unknown is won over and the tastes and wishes of the client are clearly noted down by the landscaper.

2. First Site Visit This is also an important moment for both parties. Clients can actually walk through the site indicating preferences and the landscape designer makes quick sketches and takes digital photos for future reference.

Heralds of Spring

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Annuals

3. Initial Proposal as a Sketch The first sketch is only meant to produce a good idea foundation on which the eventual design will be based. It will also save a lot of time and effort by ironing out debatable points at an early stage.

4. Cost Analysis At this moment in time both client and designer will work towards an agreement on a sensible budget and preferable terms of payment.

Spring Spring flowering bulbs: 1 Tulips, 2 Crocuses, 3 Daffodils, 4 Freesia, 5 Iris, 6 Anemone.

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5. Full Plan A complete colour rendered plan is produced at this stage. This is a time consuming job and one that requires great attention to detail.

In some instances perspectives of vantage areas are also produced and, nowadays computer aided design is also used. In rare cases where budget allows, a walk through computer-animated design can also be produced.

6. Final changes At this moment in time, any final changes have to be implemented in the design so as to allow work to commence.

8. Irrigation Basic irrigation requirements are to be installed at this stage consisting of main pipes, pumps and water distribution networks.

10. Final touches The final touches include staking, tying, trimming and installation of surface drip lines that will carry water automatically and directly to every plant that has been planted. HW

7. Hard Landscaping Most landscape designs require a strong element of hard landscaping (walls, paths, features, reservoirs etc.) to be carried out prior to any planting being done.

9. Planting This is perhaps the most important time for the client who sees his dream coming true.

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Stocks

Stocks will start blooming after a long period of slow growth. Cercis (Judas tree) will be covered with fantastic pink blooms prior to leaf formation.

Annuals like 1 Gazanias, 2 Lobelia and 3 Petunias are coming into flower.

Sweet Sweet scented Mimosa trees give a splash of bright yellow colour.

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Wild

1 Wild Almonds grace the fields and roadsides with their white flowers.

In the wild, 2 Poppies and wild 3 Chrysanthemums dot the fields.

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HOMEIDEAS De Giovanni Recliners. New additions to the recliners on offer that are very affordable and ideal for your well deserved relaxation. Some models include a real feel deep massage. Available in beige burgundy, green, blue, black, yellow and cow leather as well as a selection of micro fibre fabrics. Prices start from as little as Lm150.00 for the armchair and footstool. Value Direct no 180., St.Paul’s Street, St.Paul’s Bay.(Veccja Area).

Tel: 2157 8597, 2131 2611, 9949 9337.

Rowina Lift and Reclining Chair. The ideal armchair for your total control and comfort at a touch of a button. This model offers a full reclining position as well as aiding the user to lift up in order to walk. Available in various cow leather finishes and micro fibre. Prices start from Lm350.00. Value Direct, No.180., St. Paul’s Street, St. Paul’s Bay.(Veccja Area).

Tel: 2157 8597, 2131 2611, 9949 9337.

Chair “STYLE” in fibre white. Design Chair in organic shape and stylish finish, made of resin fibre finished in high gloss white and silver. Height can be adjusted by gas lift.

Design House, Sir Adrian Dingli street Sliema Tel: 2134 6474

Computer table high end. Elegant and compact, three tier desk made of chrome plated steel and safety glass of 10mm and 8mm respectively.Ideal for confined spaces due to corner shape and transparent finish. Price Lm220.00.

Design House, Sir Adrian Dingli street Sliema Tel: 2134 6474

De Giovanni sofa and armchair recliners. Comfort and affordability at their best! Available as a 1 seater recliner armchair at Lm190.00, 2 seater sofa both with recliners at Lm300.00 and a three seater sofa with reclining sides at Lm360.00. Cow leather finishes in black, camel, burgundy and blue for your spoilt choice. Value Direct no 180., St.Paul’s Street, St.Paul’s Bay.(Veccja Area).

Tel: 2157 8597, 2131 2611, 9949 9337.

Chair Expo. Lounge chair made from Chrome plated metal, PVC leather and foam of density 40. Available in black or white. Size 0.79 x 0.7 x 0.85. Price Lm135.00.

Design House, Sir Adrian Dingli street Sliema Tel: 2134 6474

Create that Retro look with one of these cool and comfy Video Rocker Chair. Available in white, red and black, they might be the missing touch in your living area or teenager’s bedroom.

Also available are sets of fancy storage boxes, to help declutter in style. These and more of the retro living collection available at Gifts & More in Topline St . Andrew’s and Embassy Valletta.

Tel: 2137 2256.

EASY IDEAS 067

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Spice it Up with Colour Salmon on a toasted Maltese bread with a Potato Salad Ingredients: New potatoes Spring onions Basil Lemon juice Crème Fraishe Maltese bread Olive oil Salmon Salt & pepper

4 2 1 tablespoon 1 teaspoon 1 tablespoon 2 slices 2 teaspoons 4 slices

Method: Steam or poach the potatoes with the skin.

When cool enough to handle, cut into cubes and mix the basil, onions, lemon juice and bind with the Crème Fraiche. Season with salt & pepper and spread generously over the toasted bread.

Meanwhile in a hot pan, sauté the salmon in olive oil until crispy. Remove from the pan and place on the potato salad. You can serve this dish with some Roquette salad and Salsa Verde.

Recommended Wine Delicata Gran Cavalier Sauvignon Blanc

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COLOURFUL CROCKERY CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE TO THE PRESENTATION OF YOUR TABLE. HILTON EXECUTIVE CHEF JOE VELLA MAKES THE PRESENTATION OF ALL PRESENTATIONS WITH A VARIETY OF DISHES – ALL THE WAY FROM OYSTERS TO CHICKEN SCHNITZEL. CROCKERY: JUNCTION 66 PHOTOS: MAS

Roulade of Aubergine with Mozzarella Ingredients: Aubergine Tomato sauce Buffalo Mozzarella Salt & pepper For stuffing Pine-nuts Raisins Garlic clove Grated Parmesan Fresh Basil Egg Fresh white bread Olive oil Mozzarella

1 large, sliced into 1⁄4 inch thick strips 100ml 1 ball

25g 25g 1 2 tablespoons 2 teaspoons 1, beaten 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons 80g Method: Heat a generous quantity of olive oil in a frying pan and fry the aubergine slices, a few at a time, until golden brown on both sides, adding more oil if necessary. Drain on kitchen paper and leave it to cool.

For the stuffing mix together the Mozzarella, bread, eggs, basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, raisins and garlic. Season to taste and blend together.

Lay out the cooked aubergine slices on a working surface and divide the stuffing between them. Roll them up fairly tightly to secure the filling and season with salt and pepper. Lightly grease a gratin dish with a little oil and put the aubergine rolls in it packing them tightly. Pour over the tomato paste and arrange the Mozzarella slices down the centre. Drizzle with a little olive oil, and then bake in the oven for 20 minutes until golden brown.

Recommended Wine Delicata Medina Vineyards Rosé Grenache

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Chicken Schnitzel with Capers and Lemon Ingredients: Chicken breast Dijon mustard Lemon juice Lemon Maltese honey Plain flour Eggs Breadcrumbs Rosemary Fresh thyme Olive oil Capers Lemon Parsley

Method: Place the chicken breast on a board. Bash them out into escalopes about 1 cm thick.

Mix the mustard, honey and lemon zest together in a bowl and then brush the mixture liberally over the chicken.

Dip the chicken into the flour until coated, then dip in the beaten eggs and finally dredge it in breadcrumbs, rosemary and thyme.

Heat the oil in a frying pan; add the schnitzels and fry for about 4 minutes until golden brown.

Add the butter to the pan and when it begins to foam add the capers, parsley and lemon juice. Spoon all the mixture on top of the chicken with fried sage. Serve immediately with a crispy salad marinated with Balsamic vinegar and olive oil.

Recommended Wine Delicata Dolcino Bianco

4 escalopes 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon zest of 1 tablespoon 2 tablespoons 2, beaten 2 tablespoons 1 tablespoon, chopped 1 tablespoon, chopped 2 tablespoons 1 tablespoon 2, pealed & sliced 1 tablespoon, chopped

HOMEWORKS Gorgonzola Risotto with Pea Mushroom & shavings of Parmesan Cheese Ingredients: Risotto Butter Chopped onion Vegetable stock White wine Peas Mushrooms Parmesan cheese Gorgonzola cheese Rocket leaves chopped Salt & pepper

400g 100g 1 1 litre 2 tablespoons 150g 150g 50g 75g 60g

Method: Melt 50g of the butter in a pan, add the onions and cook until soft. Add the rice and stir into the onions, coating all the grains.

Slowly add the hot stock, a ladle full at a time, waiting until each ladle-full has been absorbed by the rice.

Before adding the next and stirring of ten (after about 20 minutes) the rice should be cooked. At this point add some wine, peas and mushrooms and stir in the remaining butter and Parmesan cheese. Remove from the heat and fold the Gorgonzola, add the rocket leaves and garnish with a wafer of Parmesan.

Recommended Wine Delicata Green Label

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HOMEWORKS Oysters on a Crushed Tomato Mash with Coriander Cheese Sauce Ingredients: Fresh oysters New potato Fresh cream Olive oil Coriander Tomatoes Salt & pepper For the Sauce: Egg yolks White wine Fresh cream Stilton cheese

12 pieces 150 grams 3 tablespoons 3 table spoons 3 tablespoons 50 grams

2 3 tablespoons 1/8 pint 50 grams

Method: Boil the new potatoes with salt and pepper until just tender and drain well. Place in bowl, add cream, olive oil, coriander and diced tomato concasse. Crush them coarsely with a fork and season with salt & pepper.

Keep them warm.

When opening the oysters reserve the juice, discard the top part of each shell and clean the bottom half.

For the sauce, whisk the egg yolks and wine together in a small bowl over another bowl of boiling water and whisk until the mixture thickens and double in volume.

Whisk the cream and cheese together for 4 minutes and then fold slowly into the whisked egg yolks, wine mixture along with the strained oyster juice.

To serve, divide the crushed potatoes between the cleaned oyster shell, season the oysters and put them on top of the potato mixture and coat with the sauce. Place under a hot grill for 2 minutes until golden brown.

Suggestion: Serve some Roquette salad with strips of leeks, petal of tomato, olive oil, lemon juice and coriander leaves.

Recommended Wine Delicata Medina Vineyards Chardonnay Ghirgentina

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HOMEIDEAS

A new stock of cowhide has just arrived at Esencial, Valletta.

A selection of different colours, combinations and designs available. Each hide is totally unique and will be individual in both look size and feel. These top quality hides start at Lm40.00. Specific orders on measurements and designs are exclusively available from Esencial. info@esencial.com.mt. 45,Ordnance Street. Valletta.

Tel: 2125 5280.

Make the cowhide the centre piece of your floor.

A unique selection of zebra print and other natural colours are now available. This leather cushion is ideal for use in contemporary living rooms and bedrooms, starting at Lm70.00. Animal Shape Carpet costs Lm250.00. Table runner, mats and cushions are also available from Esencial.

Guaranteed the finest quality at affordable prices. info@esencial.com.mt. 45, Ordnance Street. Valletta.

Tel: 2125 5280.

Woven. The woven collection by BRINK & CAMPMAN is produced in the Netherlands according to a weaving technique which approaches the original knotting technique. The result is a cosy rich high-pile carpet. Picture: ‘Cross’. Sizes: 60/120 to 200/300. Prices: Starting from Lm90.00. Exclusively at BRINK & CAMPMAN, 75 St Paul’s Street Valletta, adjacent to St. Paul’s Shipwreck Church. Tel: 2122 1346.

Add a touch of embroidered linen to your home. A vast selection of doilies, centre pieces and accessories for that perfect finish. A new selection of beautiful embroidered christening gowns now in stock. Available at Perfect Match, Ta’ L-Ibragg Road St. Andrews.

Tel: 2138 0743.

Afghan Throw by Paoletti. The faux Mongolian sheepskin Afghan throw and matching cushions are an example of the throws, cushions, bed linen and rugs available from the new Home Spring Collection at One Two One Interiors. Revive your living or bedroom with the latest trends and textures available exclusively from One Two One Interiors – 21 St September Avenue Naxxar. Tel: 2142 2948/9.

Original 60’s Chair. Groove out with this original circa 1960’s chair reupholstered in imitation chinchilla fur fabric based in black. This unique and original piece will surely become a design focal point for your home. Exclusively from Tanti Interiors, 52 Mrabat Street, Sliema. Tel: 2133 0094.

For that special gift when you want to give something original, come and see our new range of needlepoint items. Prices starting from Lm2.50. Available at Perfect Match, Ta’ L-Ibragg Road St. Andrews.

Tel: 2138 0743.

SOFT IDEAS 075

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HOMEIDEAS

Hardwood Bamboo Flooring. Hardwood Bamboo Flooring, available from Vella Falzon Bathrooms. Stylish, stable & durable. Solid Bamboo Flooring is the latest trend in flooring.

It can be easily installed just like traditional tongue-andgroove hardwood flooring. For further information contact Vella Falzon Bathrooms on 2144 5165.

Colonial Pine Bedroom Set. True to our reputation for choice, quality and price introducing a new collection of solid pine furniture.

The Colonial Range. The Colonial Bedroom in solid chunky pine comprises all your requirements - most of all, your pocket! Yes, this new set is being offered at the price of only Lm399.00. A special and limited offer indeed! Granny Smith, St. Paul`s Street, Naxxar.

The one stop pine shop. Tel: 2149 0620.

Lisburn. Sleep comfortably in this beautiful bed. We can offer you a range of quality classical beds at Granny Smith, Antea Collection. 212, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara. Tel: 2149 0620.

Mirrors & Pictures. Add a finishing touch. We have a vast selection of mirrors and pictures to satisfy any style and taste.

Visit Granny Smith, Antea Collection, 212, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara. Tel: 2149 0620.

Chairs. Give a new look to your dining room. We can offer a variety of dining chairs in different stains and in a choice of fabrics. Also dining tables, sideboards and display cabinets. Visit Granny Smith, Antea Collection, 212, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara. Tel: 2149 0620.

Office. Set your mind in the right direction A nice and comfortable surrounding will definitely help. You can help your concentration and we can help you. Our Antea collection of fine office antique reproduction furniture made of solid mahogany is something you are looking for - partners desk, writing tables, bookcases, filing cabinets. What’s more is that you can even order up to your own specifications.

Granny Smith, Antea Collection, 212, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara.

Tel: 2149 0620.

Fara. Sleep comfortably in this beautiful bed. We can offer you a range of quality classical beds at Granny Smith, Antea Collection. 212, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara. Tel: 2149 0620.

Windsor. Sleep comfortably in this beautiful bed. We can offer you a range of quality classical beds at Granny Smith, Antea Collection. 212, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara. Tel: 2149 0620.

Grandfather’s Chair and Settee. Versatile collection of Granny’s Chairs to suite your requirements. Available in different sizes, colours and fabrics. Granny Smith, Antea Collection, 212, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara. Tel: 2149 0620.

ROOM IDEAS 077

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HOMEIDEAS Extremely functional yet contemporary is the 4x50w Halogen light fitting - by Dimco. Having 200w of Highly efficient 240v lamps is ideal in any area lit for long hours.

Available at VCT Ltd, Ponsomby Street, Mosta (opposite St. Monica School). Tel: 2143 2571, 2143 6186. www.vct.com.mt.

Stainless steel spot & wall washer. Quality, design, functionality at the lowest prices at VCT. Latest spots and wall washers in stainless steel. Conforming with all outdoor standards yet ever so sleek and stylish. Available at VCT Ltd, Ponsomby Street, Mosta (opposite St. Monica School).

Tel: 2143 2571, 2143 6186. www.vct.com.mt.

Gemco is proud to present these one off light fittings, they have a full new range available with special prices.

Pendent shown is being offered at Lm80.00 instead of Lm150.00. Come and see the full range at GEMCO LTD, Msida Valley Road, B’Kara.

Tel: 2148 8919.

Outdoor light fittings (lanterns). Do you find lighting outdoor boring? Stainless steel wall lights for outdoor use

by Dimco - gives the perfect solution. So irresistable you’ll probably want to cherish them indoors too. Available at VCT Ltd, Ponsomby Street,Mosta (opposite St. Monica School).

Tel: 2143 2571, 2143 6186. www.vct.com.mt

Floor Lamp Lounge. Floor lamp made from chrome plated metal with a marble base, with an adjustable height from 1.75m to 1.95m. Spanning a distance of aproximately 1.63m, functions on dimmer switch and has a protection class 2. Price Lm145.00.

Design House, Sir Adrian Dingli street Sliema Tel: 2134 6474

Whether contemporary, classical, minimalist or retro you are sure to find a lampshade to suit your style. Prices starting from Lm9.95 at Gifts & More in Topline St. Andrew’s and Embassy Valletta.

Tel: 2137 2256.

Sexy Silk Lighting. Accent lighting can create a dramatic mood so make lighting sexy in your home with these unique floor lights made from 100% Thai Silk exclusive to Tanti Interiors. Tanti Interiors, 52 Mrabat Street, Sliema.

Tel: 2133 0094.

LIGHT IDEAS 079

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HOMEWORKS

Who’s Afraid of Colour?

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HOMEWORKS

WHAT HOLDS US BACK FROM EXPERIMENTING WITH COLOUR? WHERE DOES THE FEAR COME FROM AND HOW CAN IT BE OVERCOME?

W

ith the possible exception of the weather, probably the principal authority on the human state of mind is colour. How colour affects human behaviour and the psychology of colour and is now taken seriously and even studied.

Various outlets such as classrooms, hospital rooms, chain restaurants and offices are painted in colours to compel the demeanour, performance and mindset of the people who use these spaces. There has to be a chosen colour for everything - even down to the products at the green grocer. They have been packaged in carefully chosen colours to invite your attention for various needs. So what is holding people back from using colour in their home environments? Why are people investing so much in beiges and neutrals? Why are we afraid of colour?

It might be a good idea to first understand the psychological impact that colours have on us. Red is known to stimulate the appetite - an ideal colour for dining rooms. The colours of nature - blue and green, are known to be fresh and calming. They could be popular choices for bedrooms. Energising like the sun, yellow and orange are good choices in rooms that may need pep. A toned down orange can be ideal in a home office; although energising, it isn’t so bright that it makes one lose concentration.

The international trend is making the most of using vibrant colours in unexpected amalgamations: turquoise and red-orange; orange and fuchsia, violet and lime green. However, one has to be somewhat cautious about offhandedly mixing colours together.

Because violet and lime green are complementary colours (they are opposite each other on the Colour

Wheel) they work. One would automatically think that orange and fuchsia would clash, but again - because of their situations on the Colour Wheel, they are in agreement. Before making any decisions with the colours in your home, it might be a good idea to get a hold of a colour wheel. This will help you to see how colours look together before you spend a lot of time and money.

The colour trend in Malta couldn’t be safer – beige and neutral are the most popular colours for fabrics and magnolia for walls. Muted and subtle wall colours are very easy to live with, but a contrast in the accessories and upholstery can animate them. Accessories such as rugs, coloured ceramics, glassware or vivid prints can be considered to give an overall effect of airiness simultaneously bringing your personality into the room.

The rooms that have less usage can carry the extremely vibrant colours and give you a chance to experiment and get used to the change. Don’t be afraid of using vivid colours just because the spaces may be small or narrow. Sometimes a small hallway is just a small hallway and neutral colours are not going to help change that. Another idea is to go with a dominant colour entirely and then use an accent colour in the details. The important thing is to consider the quantities. Decide on your main colour and then add carefully selected accents.

Regard the texture of your colours. Colours can be toned down by the application of various glazes. Bright greens can be colour washed over a white base to wash them out slightly and avoid the

confrontation of such boldness. This way, only its brightness is muted and the uniqueness of the colour is kept. Colours can also be layered for atypical effects. Furniture can be transformed by being distressed - painting an undercoat of blue, an overcoat of white and then sanding off the white paint on its corners and around its handles to make it look like it's an antique. (See “Refurbish, renew, reuse...” Homeworks, Issue 5.)

If you’re at a loss when trying to determine what colour scheme to go for in a particular space, look at the furniture and objects you want to use. You may find one object that can act as your motivation.

Many interior designers build up complex colour schemes from just one item. Look around you - even an old red bowl or the faded red covers of a collection of books can be the starting point of a whole room scheme.

BE COURAGEOUS! BE DARING! HAVE FUN WITH COLOUR! 081

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HOMEWORKS

HISTORY OF COLOUR THEORY The first colour wheel was invented by Sir Isaac Newton. He split white sunlight into red, orange, yellow, green, cyan, and blue beams; then he joined the two ends of the colour spectrum together to show the natural progression of colours. Newton associated each colour with a note of a musical scale.

A century after Newton, Johann Wolfgang Goethe began studying the psychological effect of colours. He noticed that blue gives a feeling of coolness and yellow has a warming effect.

Goethe created a colour wheel showing the psychological effect of each colour. He divided all the colours into two groups – the plus side (from red through orange to yellow) and the minus side (from green through violet to blue).

Colours of the plus side produce excitement and cheerfulness. Colours of the minus side are associated with weakness and unsettled feelings.

The current form of colour theory was developed by Johannes Itten, a Swiss colour and art theorist who was teaching at the School of Applied Arts in Weimar, Germany. This school is also known as ‘Bauhaus’. Johannes Itten developed ‘colour chords’ and modified the colour wheel. Itten’s colour wheel is based on red, yellow, and blue colours as the primary triad and includes twelve hues.

COLOUR SCHEMES Related Schemes Monochromatic - This colour scheme uses a single hue. (example: red and its varying tints and shades) Analogous - This scheme uses adjacent hues. (example: red, redorange, and red-violet) Contrasting Schemes Complementary - If two hues are opposite each other on the colour wheel they are considered to be complementary colours. When used together in a design they make each other seem brighter and more intense. (example: red and green).

COOL

THE COLOUR WHEEL

The colour wheel is divided into three categories: primary, secondary, and tertiary. The three primary colours are red, yellow and blue. These colours are considered to be foundation colours because they are used to create all other colours. By combining two of the primary colours, three secondary colours are formed. They are orange, green and violet. The six tertiary colours are made by combining a primary and an adjacent secondary colour. These colours are red-orange, red-violet, yellow-green, yellow-orange, blue-green and blue-violet.

Colours are also divided into cool and warm categories. The cool colours are green, blue and violet. Warm colours are red, orange and yellow.

TINTS & SHADES

A tint of a colour is made by adding white.

Triadic This scheme also uses three colours. They are evenly spaced from each other. (example: red,

Split complementary This colour scheme uses three colours: any hue and the two adjacent to its complement. (example: red, yellow-green, and blue-green)

WARM

A shade is made by adding black.

Discordant Schemes Double complement - This colour scheme uses

yellow, and blue)

two pairs of complements. (example: yellow and violet, blue and orange)

Alternate complement This scheme uses four colours: a triad and a complement to one of the hues. (example: red, yellow, blue and violet)

Tetrad This scheme uses four colours evenly spaced on the colour wheel. A primary, secondary and two tertiary colours are used. (example: red, green, yellow-orange, and blue-violet) HW

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HOMEWORKS

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

BoConcept

NEW DECORATING CULTURE DESIGN THAT MATCHES YOUR PERSONALITY

furniture gives the opportunity to customers to furnish their home, as they like. When we create a new piece of furniture, we devote a lot of energy to design and functionality, but we also think in modules.

That way, it’s up to the customer to complete the design work by selecting those combinations which best suit his or her own personal style. For us, it’s about personal freedom: the freedom to choose the furniture’s look and functions to suit yourself.

MEGA FLEXIBLE SOFAS BoConcept have the following sofa basic units available - a oneseater, a two-seater, a three-seater, a 45-degree angle, a 90-degree corner unit, a chaise lounge and a lounging platform unit.

Now imagine that by using any of the above basic sofa components, you could combine any units in just about any way you like - even repeating a unit type several times - to come up with your own combination adjusted to your taste, size and requirement. Why not one simple armchair to a sofa that would seat a dozen of your family or friends, each with their own favourite type of seating space?

At this point your sofa’s shape and size is just about defined. It is now a matter of detail... 7 types of arm rests, 8 types of legs and 58 fabrics/leathers are the finishing options available to choose from, enabling you to give your sofa your own personal finish. To find out more on finding your flexible sofa visit BoConcept, San Gwann.

provides you with infinite solutions made to measure, original combinations and unlimited possibilities to satisfy any demand, creating a personal, lively and dynamic living area for your child.

FAER bedrooms are designed with extra measures to ensure a safe environment, and are produced from high quality materials providing flexible bedroom furnishings that are beautifully designed and affordably priced.

FAER can also offer their esteemed clientele main bedrooms, dining and living rooms solutions.

The latest FAER range can be seen at If you want a quality bedroom for your Carmelo Delia & Sons, Big Bon Level children and have their safety at heart, –1, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara. set your mind in the right direction and Tel/Fax: 2147 0933. opt for FAER. FAER, one of Italy’s premium contemporary furniture companies,

FAER... GIVING CHILDREN FULL SPACE TO THEIR DREAMS.

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HOMEWORKS

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

BEAUTIFUL AND UNCHANGING LUISIGRANIT: A MATERIAL AS HARD AS ROCK. It is resistant to: 1 Scratches.

2 Shock (a plate of 2.2kg falling from 60cm high will not provoke a chip) 3 Heat (a plate full of oil at 220 degrees Celsius left for 5 min will leave no track)

All it takes is some water and a sponge to clean a Luisigranit sink.

Exclusively from: The Tile, Bella Vista Str, San Gwann.

Tel: 2137 1891.

Email: mailto:the-tile@info.com Web page: http://www.the-tile.com

4 Ultraviolet. The durability of the colour is guaranteed.

5 Stains. It is a perfectly smooth and non-porous material making it totally hygienic.

laminate floorings.

Specially protected core boards make the flooring the most highly resistant possible to moisture and ensure lifelong enjoyment of the products.

A huge advantage to Witex brand flooring is that the flooring is produced to be as quiet as possible by means of the sound protect acoustic system. This makes the especially heavy sound insulation layer not only more quiet, but also more solid.

Witex – A renowned brand and So let the beauty and innovation of pioneers for parquet and laminate Witex brand products with over 74 flooring. Each Witex brand flooring decors from modern to rustic decors is equipped with the Loc-tec inspire you and you will discover click joint, complete with edge that the flooring is an ideal solution sealing throughout the entire for various areas. Go and visit the range, creating a product that is complete range at the Witex Parquet among the best and safest in the Warehouse at 230, 21st September world. The simplicity of cleaning Avenue Naxxar (100m up the has been further improved with road from Scott Supermarket) or special surfaces. Features like the telephone: 2138 5390, 9949 6475, antibacterial or antistatic surface are 7949 5575. the highlights of Witex Floorings.

Even kitchens and bathrooms are easily furnished with the branded

WITEX THE FLOOR BRAND

APERTURES

HOMEWORKS A to Z of SUPPLIERS

TO ADVERTISE IN THIS SECTION PLEASE PHONE 2133 9999 OR EMAIL info@writeon.com.mt Homeworks12 Book.indb 87

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BATHROOMS

BATHROOMS

HOMEWORKS A to Z of SUPPLIERS

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HOME ENTERTAINMENT

HOME ENTERTAINMENT

HOMEWORKS A to Z of SUPPLIERS

TO ADVERTISE IN THIS SECTION PLEASE PHONE 2133 9999 OR EMAIL info@writeon.com.mt Homeworks12 Book.indb 89

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HOME SECURITY

HOME SECURITY

HOMEWORKS A to Z of SUPPLIERS

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INTERIORS & ACCESSORIES

HOME SECURITY

INNOVATIVE LIGHTING

HOMEWORKS A to Z of SUPPLIERS

TO ADVERTISE IN THIS SECTION PLEASE PHONE 2133 9999 OR EMAIL info@writeon.com.mt Homeworks12 Book.indb 91

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KITCHENS & FURNISHINGS

INTERIORS & FURNISHINGS

HOMEWORKS A to Z of SUPPLIERS

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LANDSCAPING & GARDEN MAINTENANCE

LANDSCAPING

HOMEWORKS A to Z of SUPPLIERS

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LIGHTING & GIFTWARE

LIGHTING

HOMEWORKS A to Z of SUPPLIERS

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POTTERWARE

PAINTS

PEST CONTROL

HOMEWORKS A to Z of SUPPLIERS

TO ADVERTISE IN THIS SECTION PLEASE PHONE 2133 9999 OR EMAIL info@writeon.com.mt Homeworks12 Book.indb 95

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TILES

TILES

HOMEWORKS A to Z of SUPPLIERS

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