HOMEWORKS 24

ISSUE 24 APRIL 07

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ISSUE 24.07 LM 1.50 where sold

BRILLIANT 230 Tower Road, Sliema

4/12/07 4:21:26 PM

CABOCHE Design: Patricia Urquiola + Eliana Gerotto

Model Mood design S. Barsacchi

The “best seller” kitchen from Italy can be found at: Aplan Centre B’Kara Bypass B’Kara BKR 14 Malta Tel: 00356 21 480590 Email: scavolini@aplan.com.mt

System of Quality Management UNI EN ISO 9001 System of Environmental Management UNI EN ISO 14001

Please download our general catalogue from www.scavolini.com

Scavolini S.p.A. 61025 Montelabbate (PU) - Italia Tel. +39 0721443333 Fax: +39 0721443413 contact@scavolini.com www.scavolini.com

The “best seller” from Italy

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4/12/07 4:21:37 PM

The “best seller” kitchen from Italy can be found at: Aplan Centre B’Kara Bypass B’Kara BKR 14 Malta Tel: 00356 21 480590 Email: scavolini@aplan.com.mt

System of Quality Management UNI EN ISO 9001 System of Environmental Management UNI EN ISO 14001

Please download our general catalogue from www.scavolini.com

Scavolini S.p.A. 61025 Montelabbate (PU) - Italia Tel. +39 0721443333 Fax: +39 0721443413 contact@scavolini.com www.scavolini.com

The “best seller” from Italy

HOMEWORKS Welcome to

HOMEWORKS 24 edition. th

Here at HOMEWORKS, we do try to show our readers a variety of residences; some small spaces, some huge, others architectural gems that leave the viewer inspired. We try to select homes that will inspire and innovate, giving attainable ideas. Believe it or not, many of the homes featured in HOMEWORKS are within reach; it is only because they are usually designed or decorated with such ingenuity that they may sometimes seem somewhat unapproachable.

This issue we’re throwing all of that out the window.

We’re going full throttle on dream homes, regardless of the budget and resources. Away with practicality, low maintenance and budget. Forget space margins and limited resources. This issue is all about homes that are created precisely the way the homeowners and their designers intended, with no budget restrictions.

The man with a penchant for model cars and high-tech gadgets, Kevin De Cesare, has just finished his duplex penthouse on Tower Road, Sliema with the help of Architectural Designer, Carlo Schembri and Interior Designer Stefania Schembri. With wide-open spaces, designer furniture and a view to get lost gazing at, this space is the “now” of Sliema apartments. (page 22) Architectural Designer Maria Scerri created a space for Joe Satariano, who then made it the official residence for the Portuguese Ambassador, Antonio Russo Dias. Portuguese Interior Designer Sofia Saldanha kept the interior design true to its roots by using only Portuguese décor. (page 32) Architectural Designer Mark Pace is given free reign to create the space as he sees fit with the only brief being to make it innovative. Not tough for the designer renowned for his original design concepts and custommade furniture. (page 46)

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KITCHENS 101 HOMEWORKS FEATURE GUY Laguens

Very often the kitchen is the soul of the home. Kitchens 101 is an in-depth feature on how to be honest to yourself about the style and functions that you’re after in the kitchen. The feature shows you all the elements that you’ll need to create the dream kitchen for yourself. (page 54) Summer is around the corner and it’s time to get equipped. A feature about air conditioners gives readers tips on which types to choose and how to avoid getting lumped with inferior quality systems. (page 64) We couldn’t feature “dream homes” without including a dream garden.

These established garden grounds are an absolute delight, complete with the abundant floral and the function the vegetable patch brings. (page 75) Executive Hilton Malta Chef, Joe Vella, shows us the importance of infusion by preparing some marinades to give meat that special taste that only Chefs seem to be able to achieve (page 81).

We want everyone to have the opportunity to create their dream home.

That’s why we’ve begun the HOMEWORKS Transformation Series. This will give HOMEWORKS readers the opportunity to work with top interior designers to make their space how they’ve always dreamed it to be. See how you can get involved on page 38.

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064 COOL IT

HOMEWORKS a/C FEATURE GUY Laguens

046 015, 017, 041, 043, 063, 069, 071 Home Ideas

Freedom BY mark pace

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The Gadget Guru

By Lisa borain

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Portuguese Poise

By ELISABETH CARDONA

007 HOMEWINNERS 009 HOMENEWS 019 home trends 2007

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022 The Gadget Guru 032 Portuguese Poise 038 room Makeover

Grand Garden By lisa borain

046 Freedom

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The Importance of Infusion

BY Chef Joe Vella

054 Kitchens 101 064 COOL IT 075 Grand Garden 081 The Importance of Infusion 085 HOMEWORKS A to Z of SUPPLIERS

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Issue 24.07

HOMECOMPETITION We want your Feedback!

Forward your ideas outlining what you would like to see published within HOMEWORKS. The person submitting the most interesting idea/concept will receive a lamp by kartell from Studio Moda Group worth Lm 45.00.

Designer: Ferruccio Laviani. Made out of transparent or coloured injected polycarbonate.

This Edition: Editor Lisa Borain Art Director Marc Spiteri Design M AS Communications Photography KURT Arrigo Alan Carville MAS David pisani Metropolis

HOMEWINNERS 23rd edition…

Congratulations to David Saliba – our twenty-third HOMEWORKS reader suggestion winner. David has won the fountain from Fifth Avenue worth Lm39.00.

David wrote: “We’d like to say that for us, your magazine is really inspiring and a very useful guide... we never miss out on an issue!

We have a newly built house and would like to set up a traditional wooden Maltese balcony... could you give us some useful tips, such as the most adequate material and varnish to opt for when shopping around, as well as a couple of hints

contributors Elisabeth Cardona, GUY Laguens, Mark Pace, Joe Vella Sales & Marketing 2133 9999 Alberto E Serra Sales Coordination Rita Bonett Pre-press and Printing Progress Press Postal Address / E-mail WriteOn Ltd. P. O. Box 48 Msida, Malta info@writeon.com.mt HOMEWORKS is a registered trademark of writeon Ltd.

HOMEWORKS is published by writeon ltd. every two months on Sundays with an audited circulation of 39,500 copies distributed with The Sunday Times of Malta.

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

regarding maintenance, especially when it comes to a balcony that has to endure rather longish sunny hours?

It would also be helpful if Maltese carpenters who still build such balconies would be included in the feature.”

READERS WROTE I would like to congratulate you for HOMEWORKS – it is one of the few local publications I wait for eagerly.

I am always mesmerised by the extraordinary houses frequently featured on the publication, but as you may be well aware, many young people like myself do not have the liquidity to afford such luxury, and as young people I presume we are the ones most in need of guidelines when it comes to decorating and adapting furniture and accessories to a space.

My suggestion is to dedicate an issue of HOMEWORKS to decorating and furnishing medium-sized maisonettes/ flats/apartments. It would be ideal if you could give a sample of both a rustic and modern maisonette/flat/ apartment, as well as a mix of the two.

I have recently bought a house and I have just started to design it. I would like to save money from electricity, especially with regards to the water heater system. My house is at ground floor level and since I do not have access to the roof, I cannot have a solar panel. We have lots of sunny days, even during winter, and it’s a pity that most of us Maltese people cannot make use of such a great energy source.

I would be grateful if in the next issue you could provide us with some ideas of how we can overcome this problem, which is very common in the Maltese islands.

- Stephen Zammit

- Charlene Caruana

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. © 2007

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 both interior and exterior living spaces.

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 007

HOMENEWS

THELATESTINDUSTRYHAPPENINGS ECO GROUP FIREPLACES BY CVO FIRE

Eco Group is now offering its customers fireplaces and firebowls by CVO Fire, which is the leading brand of gas fires. The main features are contemporary and traditional pieces, the cleanest burners, durable, UK designed, engineered, and made, as well as affordable to aspirational suites.

BANJU BOUTIQUE INTRODUCES TODAGRES Banju Boutique introduces a new trend and solution – Todagres, an innovative and pioneering company, which manufactures a high quality of porcelain tiles that offer durability, resistance, cleanliness and beauty. The Porcelanico Todanato® tile, presently one of the most well know brands, is versatile and available in a wide range of finishes.

ELEKTRA NEW ILLUMINATION The LED (Light-EmittingDiode) emits light when current is passed through it, but it is not a lamp. Recent technological developments and a growing demand from the market for reliable, low maintenance and consumption, has produced an electronic device with a new kind of illumination.

It can be programmed and allows the combination of millions of different colour effects, thus stimulating the creativity of lighting designers.

CORE new outdoor furniture and decking core is introducing modular teak decking tiles mounted on to a special plastic resin grid that clicks together for easy installation on any surface, guaranteed to endure the elements brilliantly . core is also introducing contemporary outdoor furniture in synthetic weaving materials, teak and stainless steel guaranteed against the elements.

Casanova Snaidero’s latest creation

Mandelli 2007 collection “Made in Italy” at no compromises. The 2007 collection is now in stock. New models, cabinet handles, kitchen handles, lever handles, pull handles and doorknockers are now available at Mandelli.

Snaidero present the spectacular Venus kitchen, the latest creation of Pininfarina, which features a state-of-the-art design of symmetrical curves. Various finishes are available such as matte, gloss and metallic lacquer, ebony wood and the new leather effect micro fibre, which is extremely resistant and easy to clean. Worktops can come in either stainless steel, corian or laminated.

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THELATESTINDUSTRYHAPPENINGS Ideacasa New 3,000 square metre showroom The brand new Ideacasa showroom was officially inaugurated by the Prime Minister. Over 300 distinguished guests, including President Emertius Ugo Mifsud Bonnici as well as a host of directors from Ideacasa’s main Italian furniture, lighting and flooring brands also attended.

Min.Ka NEW STOCK Min.Ka is an absolute novelty in Malta, for all those who want something different in their home. Min.Ka’s new stock has well over 300 premium cowhide rugs, calfskins, goatskins and stunning cowhide patchwork carpets in different sizes and finishings. All these items go perfectly well in different areas of the house, such as a dining room, living room, bedroom and all other areas depending on one’s creativity.

Josies Valentino Collection Cultures and expressions of the fashion world meet and intertwine on the refined design that generates the “textile style”. The natural shades of beige and ecru and the brightness of white, highlighted by the eternal elegance of black, are part and parcel of the aesthetic clout of a great Valentino collection, conceived to combine perfectly with the elegant and balanced atmosphere of interiors.

Windsor Interiors New Showroom Windsor Interiors, well known for the reliability of their bedroom products, are now also offering quality kitchens through a partnership with Italian manufacturer bbc Le cucine.

The company is now exhibiting an extensive range of 21 modern, traditional and classical kitchens in its new 500 square metre showroom in Mosta.

Living Interiors Grape@Riedel Riedel, known as the industry’s innovator and creator of special wine glasses to enhance the flavours of the world’s greatest wines, now presents the new grape@riedel. The latest machine blown technology, in conjunction with the seamless pulled stem, offers a special design feature, which creates an indent on the bottom of the bowl, reflecting the light and adding another dimension to the lively colour of wine.

Galea Ceramics New showroom Galea Ceramics opened its doors to their new showroom in Marsa.

Galea Ceramics represent Peronda and Marazzi in Malta.

Carmelo Delia New showroom in Paola Carmelo Delia (1890) & Sons have recently expanded their outlets to include a new showroom at Main Street Complex in Paola, where customers can find a variety of classical and modern 'Export' kitchens, as well as a selection of Faer children's bedrooms.

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For the stylish home, this new range of classical/rustic light fittings is made in top quality materials. Pendent shown above is Lm130.00. GEMCO LTD, Msida Valley Road, B’Kara. Tel: 2148 8919.

Spring/summer collection now out with a nice selection of side lamps, mirrors, picture frames, candles and sarongs. Perfect Match, Ta’ L-Ibragg Road, St. Andrews. Tel: 2138 0743, 9949 0123.

A vast selection of original fabrics and light fittings. at Tanti Interiors, 52 Imrabat Street, Sliema.

Tel: 2133 0094.

Eternity Candle Holders starting from Lm7.75. Junction 66, 66, Tower Road, Sliema. Tel: 2133 4451 and Arkadia, Gozo.

Spring/summer collection now out with a nice selection of side lamps, mirrors, picture frames, candles and sarongs. Perfect Match, Ta’ L-Ibragg Road, St. Andrews Tel: 2138 0743, 9949 0123.

Sale on all natural cowhides, patchwork carpets and cowhide cushions. Natural Carpet 180x120 sale price: Lm120.00. Natural Cushions: Lm 15.00. Esencial, 45, Ordnance Street.

Valletta. Tel: 2125 5280.

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“Anastasia” designed by Paoletti, in luxury taffeta, is one of the many co-ordinating duvet sets from the newly arrived spring collection of bedding with a fresh selection of sheets, throws, ready made curtains and cushions in light and lavish fabrics. One Two One Interiors – 21st September Avenue, Naxxar Tel: 2142 2948/9.

NEWs

Textile

Movida, the exclusive new wallpaper from Elitis is the innovative and fresh collection of vinyl patchwork paper inspired by nature with engraving types of animal hair. Available in more than 29 colours, the prices start from Lm45.00 per roll. camilleriparismode, Annunciation Square, Sliema Tel: 2134 4838

Using the designs and colourations developed by the BRINK & CAMPMAN design studio, rugs are being knotted in Nepal. The pile is a blend of Tibetan and New Zealand wool. The woven collection is a cosy rich high-pile carpet. Prices starting from Lm69.00. core, Upper Valley Road, B’Kara. Tel: 2144 3449.

The Melia Collection of rods, finials and curtain accessories from Andre’ Houles, Paris.

Design House, Dingli Street, Sliema. Tel: 2134 6474.

Designers Guild – Rich and tactile embossed wall coverings from the Spring Serafan Collection. Design House, Dingli Street, Sliema. Tel: 2134 6474.

The distinctive quality of materials and particular attention to every detail is what makes Foppapedretti unique and they make the task of ironing easier and pleasant with their wide and sturdy ironing boards that fold away in one easy movement. Living Interiors, Luqa Briffa Street Gzira. Tel 2134 1166.

Ikat Fabric – one of the many designs from the 2007 Fabric Collection by Ulf Moritz for Sacho Hesslein. Design House, Dingli Street, Sliema. Tel: 2134 6474.

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Colour combos Colour combos: As with the fashion runways, black and white just isn’t going anywhere. Look for it in furnishings, printed fabrics and wallpaper.

Oriental Garden by Designers Guild.

Square Plates “Programma 8” design Franco Sargiani and Eija Helander

Alessi “Mr. Chin” Egg cup with salt castor and spoon in thermoplastic resin.

“Colombina collection” design Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas

“Pasta Pot” design Patrick Jouin for Alain Ducasse

Interior designers translate their spring/summer 2007 fashion colours to interior paint colours Elie Tahari: Lavender shade painted in a breakfast room.

Sue Stemp: Clover in a chic seventies feel bathroom.

Nicole Miller: Mustard in the dining room.

Kathryn Dianos for KYKLOS: Faded terracotta toners applied in a textured way to give a naturally aged appearance.

Carmen Marc Valvo: Silver in the living room – it’s very Hollywood glam and mid-century modern.

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The Gadget Guru Kevin DeCesare’s home is precisely how you’d like to imagine Kevin DeCesare’s home to be. The man renowned for fast cars and a penchant for sexy gadgets creates the perfect space for himself.

Architectural Designer Carlo Schembri Interior Designer Stefania Schembri Photos David Pisani / Metropolis Words Lisa Borain

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he point of all the gadgets, you see, is that they make life hassle free. The more you have, the less fuss you have. The problem with Kevin is that he has so many gadgets and remotes and hassle-free items to contend with, that it’s a royal hassle. But the space that houses these gadgets sure does look good.

The 420 sq metred open plan Sliema penthouse duplex with open sea views to get lost gazing at, is superb.

Kevin: “My first priority was to be near my kids, who live in Sliema.

I had a very Mediterranean style house before, which was high maintenance and full of furniture and items that I had either collected along the way or inherited from my parents. It was very spacious with everything there – a professional home theatre, a billiard room, a large garden and pool... I knew I wanted to downsize, but I also wanted it to be in a large space. Initially I thought I would bring my furniture, but then I met Carlo [Schembri] and I ended up auctioning everything off and starting from scratch. I wanted a very modern Armani-esque type of look, so I went to Milan with Carlo and we chose things together.”

Kevin wanted his space to be more practical: “As soon as I walked through the door of the old house, I would go to the sitting room and 024

then to the bedroom. I wanted a space where I could use the whole apartment. Here, I even have to walk through the sitting room to get to bed, so practically every room is used daily.”

Designer Carlo Schembri: “The whole concept of the design for this apartment was centred and inspired around the idea of creating a place that can offer comfort and class to social private living. With the use of more than six sofas, flexible solutions and module systems, we gave the apartment the ability to accommodate large meetings, whilst retaining the cosiness of a home. Despite its large space, which is ideal for hosting substantial numbers, it also holds separate room spaces for privacy and comfort. Bright and dynamic design was attained by the simple power of knowing precisely where and how to place the furniture.

The stairs was one of our biggest discussions. They were previously oak and Kevin loved them. After a lot of persuasion, and I mean a lot, we agreed to use glass as the material. The space had to connect, but I wanted it to be a neutral connection, without an emphasis on it. This way it blends with everything.”

HOMEWORKS The first floor is intended mainly for entertainment by exploiting the huge, open spaces. The layout of the kitchen allows Kevin to talk to his guests while cooking. This space also holds a dining area and a large terrace.

The terrace itself has been enlarged to four times its original size, creating an interesting fusion of indoor and outdoor space. The wooden clad deck design, outdoor furniture, which seats eight for dinner and a four-person Jacuzzi, mixed with the tremendous view makes for the ultimate ambience.

The indoor designer furnishings are all individually picked by both Carlo and Kevin. The lighting was high on the list of priorities: Artemide from Elektra provided fittings and a Lutron intelligence system was installed by Doneo and wired up by Marsam. As Kevin often works in the evenings, he wanted a system whereby different light settings could be programmed.

This is linked to other programmes for the upstairs curtains and sound. On Sunday, jazz music automatically starts playing and during the week, Bay Radio starts first thing in the morning.

The top floor was created for Kevin’s exclusive use as his own private quarters. The exquisite view was made accessible from the bath itself, with the placing of the toilet and bidet in a separate enclosure. If Kevin wants to lie in sometimes, he can still access the Internet and talk on the phone. He can also watch the news while getting ready for work.

"Although I did use a designer to help me with design, that doesn’t mean that I don’t want to surround myself with the things that I like."

“I really like big bedrooms and the size of this one is ideal.

I’ve used the bath a couple of times, but ultimately, I’m a shower man.”

The apartment is home to four LCD screens - the 62-incher being the largest.

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Kevin. “Yes, I like televisions. I also like model cars. I sold 400 of my model Ferraris in the auction.”

Which now only leaves him with a mere hundred that line the window in the sitting room and his sons’ bedroom walls.

“Although I did use a designer to help me with design, that doesn’t mean that I don’t want to surround myself with the things that I like. The three paintings in the main sitting room, the painting I got from an overseas auction, the seahorse I got from Australia, the silver candelabras in the kitchen given to me by my parents... these are all items that may not necessarily go with the interior design, (actually, I feel that they do, but Carlo seems to think otherwise) but they mean something to me and I want to keep them around.”

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There is also another spacious section of the apartment, closed off, for Kevin’s children. Almost separate enough to be their very own “pad”, they also get to surround themselves with the things they like, such as full sound systems, wireless Internet and LCD’s.

So there it is. The perfect space for Kevin and his children.

Contrary to what some may imagine, he’s not a loner. He enjoys people and wants to share his space with them.

“When the winter sun comes out, you’re warm straight away.

In summer, you have a nice breeze wafting through. I had lunch with friends outside the other day and it felt like we were in Monte Carlo. It was great. This is exactly what I wanted.” HW

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New range of beaded tassel rope and curtain tiebacks with matching key tassels and beading, available in 5 colours – amber, blue, pink, red & clear. Tiebacks at Lm8.95 each.

Key Tassles at Lm2.95 each. Biggie Best, Vjal ir-Rihan, Naxxar Road, San Gwann. Tel: 2138 8880.

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Portuguese Poise Ambassador of Portugal, Antonio Russo Dias welcomes HOMEWORKS into his recently built residence, complete with a fusion of Portuguese interior design and Maltese architecture.

Words Elisabeth Cardona PHOTOS MAS architectural Designer Maria Scerri Interior Designer Sofia Saldanha

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ozambique-born Ambassador of Portugal, Antonio Russo Dias, has recently moved to Malta. The Ambassador has a highly interesting career: he was at the Portuguese Embassy in Baghdad in the 80’s during the Iran-Iraq War and then went on to Versailles as Consul of Portugal. After four years in France, he went back to Lisbon for two years and subsequently he was posted in Brazil, where he stayed four years. He returned to France as Deputy Permanente Representative to the Council of Europe in Strasbourg. Again, he went back to his country and after two years he was appointed to Guinea-Bissau, a former Portuguese colony in West Africa, to his first post as Ambassador. From West Africa, he went to Belgrade and then, finally, to Malta.

It was not his first time in Malta; he had been to the Island before and found that he felt very comfortable in this environment.

Ambassador Russo Dias. “There are many similarities between Malta and Portugal.

Take the historical aspect: The peoples that invaded, occupied and settled in Malta did the same in Portugal: Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans... As a result, the culture is very similar. Even though Portugal is not strictly Mediterranean from a geographical point of view, it has a Mediterranean culture and we share lots of customs and practices. For instance, the Arabic influence over the Maltese popular architecture and over the Southern part of Portugal results in two very resembling environments. Even the weather is similar, so it really feels as though sometimes I am in Portugal.”

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The Ambassador’s residence in Malta was leased out to the Portuguese Embassy by Joe Satariano of Satariano Ltd. The newly built grand home sits on a hill in Madliena, overlooking Bahar ic-Caghaq. All the finishings were by Satariano Ltd. and the interior design was by Portuguese Interior Designer Sofia Saldanha, who does most of the residences of Portuguese ambassadors around the world.

Ambassador Russo Dias. “I feel very comfortable here. There is a balanced mixture of very modern things with more classical aspects and items. However, it is quite large, so I don’t use certain areas so much – unless I have guests. I spend most of the time in my small office to work, watch television, read or listen to music, as it’s very cosy and comfortable.”

The Ambassador’s favourite items in the house are the four portraits of the Portuguese Grandmasters of the Order of St. John in the living room, three of whom were in Malta: Grandmasters Pinto, Vilhena and Vasconcelos. They are copies of originals that sit in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Lisbon.

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HOMEWORKS “I find it adequate to have the portraits here because this relates Malta to Portugal... this is interesting. There’s also the landscape at the back of the room, which looks like Malta, but is actually Lisbon. Once again, this shows how close the two countries are. I think there are various beautiful elements in the decoration of this house. Sofia did a wonderful job of mixing modern with traditional, mixing Malta with Portugal. This is precisely what is needed for an Ambassador’s residence. This, and of course, room for entertaining guests.”

Ambassador Russo Dias is a very down-to-earth gentleman, interested to learn and understand different cultures. He and his wife have a 16 year-old son who thoroughly enjoys Malta, as well as the house. Although ideal for the adults, the home also extends itself to fun – not only is there a downstairs section with almost absolute privacy from the first floor, but there is also an enormous back patio area, complete with a considerably sized pool.

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HOMEWORKS “When making a home the residence for Ambassadors, successors have to be thought of as well. Most Ambassadors have a family with them and this home is ideal for that – it is functional and spacious, not to mention aesthetically striking.” HW

Interior Designer Sofia Saldanha PROFILE

“I was born in a family where “interior design” and art in general was a main feature. My father was an architect and the first teacher of interior design in Portugal. My grandfather was an interior designer and one of the greatest connoisseurs of art in my country. So for as long as I can remember, being an interior designer came naturally to me. As a very young child I was the one who had to “decorate” our playing room.

I married very young, had three children, lived in Mozambique and in London for a few years and only began working professionally when I came back to Portugal in 1975.

Most of my works are private houses and my first aim is that the owners of the house feel comfortable and at home. I always say I am not supposed to teach people about “taste” – what is “good taste”?

I just try my best to understand what my clients like and what they expect from me. In fact, most of my clients even end up becoming good friends of mine.

In 1991 a friend of mine was sent as the first Portuguese Ambassador in Israel and asked for my help to decorate the embassy in Tel-Aviv. This was the first of about twenty different embassies to date.

I visit the house once, take some pictures and measurements and, most important, “feel” the atmosphere of the house. I immediately see the colours that will go with that house in that place with that light. It is important for me to remember that the house will be lived in by a different family every three or four years.

When I first went to Malta and visited the house where Ambassador Russo Dias would live, I immediately loved the house, the views and the light and knew the kind of furniture and colours I would use. I had everything made and bought in Portugal and shipped to Malta when ready. I then went back to Malta with the curtains fitter and in four days the house was ready. I loved Malta so much that I was sorry my work was finished so quickly!”

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ROOMMAKEOVER HOMEWORKS

You can WIN a Room Makeover courTesy of HOMEWORKS

Have a room that's Begging to be transformed?

This is your chance to get it done professionally and for FREE! Send us pictures of those rooms that are in dire need of a transformation and you just may be chosen to have a complete ROOM MAKE OVER. Our panel of experts will assess which rooms have the most potential for a conversion, they will then select the winning entries and set about their business of transforming your drabby into dreamy and we'll pay for it all!

From shell form to soft furnishings, some of Malta’s most talented designers will analyse readers’ rooms and do up a kitchen, a bathroom, a bedroom and a living room from scratch.

With the kind assistance of some of Malta's leading suppliers of furnishings; from kitchens to sofas, textiles to bath tiles, we'll use whatever we need to get the look we're after.

Entering is easy. Any reader who has a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen or living room, which they would be content to leave in the hands of our designers, should send us photographs of their room(s). It can be any room – whether in shell form or just “tired”.

HOMEWORKS will of course be there to document the process and features will include tips, advice and guidance on all that a transformation involves, as well as what’s available on the market for what price range. The rooms that will be transformed will be chosen on an ongoing basis and will appear individually in consecutive issues of HOMEWORKS. What are you waiting for? Get snapping and send us your pics!

Send to: HOME MAKEOVER, WriteOn Ltd., P.O. Box 48, Msida or email: info@writeon.com.mt with “HOME MAKEOVER” in the subject line. *All photographs that are sent in will not be returned. It is at the Publisher’s discretion which rooms are chosen. HOMEWORKS reserves the sole right to publish the reader’s room during the transformation process.

THEROOMMAKEOVERDESIGNERS

Kenneth Tanti

Katja Weidersum

Marise Pace & Kevin Micallef

Sharron McNamara

Henry Borg Barthet

On the bedroom.

On the living room.

On the bedroom.

On the bathroom.

On the kitchen.

HOMEIDEAS A large selection of coloured glass vases is now in stock with a variety of shapes and sizes available. Floor vase Ht: 70. Lm 10.33, Ht: 50. Lm 5.84, Ht: 30, Lm3.25.

TFS (The Furniture Store - member of Studio Moda Group), San Gwann.

Tel: 2138 6812.

Following in the success of an all white version, the Wedgwood Jasper Conran Platinum dinner service now comes with a Platinum edge and for the more daring a number of items may be chosen in a striped version. Gio. Batta Delia, Valletta. Tel: 2123 3618.

Mdina Glass, prestigious craftsmen in artistic glassware has just launched a whole new range of items, including wine coolers, door handles, lamps and other great home and gift ideas to be added to the existing home decorating range. Mdina Glass, Ta’Qali. Tel: 2141 5786.

Living Interiors introduces the Living Interiors Wedding List Service – a highly personal service that will ensure the prospective bride and groom that they receive the wedding gifts desired.

Living Interiors, Luqa Briffa Street, Gzira.

Tel: 2134 1166.

The limited edition Lyra decanter is completely handmade and handblown 24-percent lead crystal.

Shaped like a lyre combining both the practical and the pretty, it was created to celebrate the Riedel’s 250th anniversary. Living Interiors, Luqa Briffa Street, Gzira. Tel: 2134 1166.

An exciting approach to colour and materials, Guzzini plays a large part in what we recognise as the ‘Italian look’, with all products beautifully finished and most suitable for dishwasher use. Domestica Showroom, Valley Road, Msida.

As agents for ASA, TKS (The Kitchen Store) host the largest selection of items of quality and design, with the new collection in store now. TKS (The Kitchen Store – member of Studio Moda Group), San Gwann. Tel: 2138 6812.

The ASA selection boasts a wide range of dinnerware and accessories with a range that may also be a great solution for your engagement or wedding list too. Domestica Showroom, Valley Road, Msida.

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HOMEIDEAS Nextime clocks latest trendy designs are perfect as kitchen clocks or for the living room. The “dropped numerical clock” (35 x 53cm): Lm12.75.

Prices start at Lm10.75. Contemp, 119, Naxxar Road, B’Kara. Tel: 2144 2116.

Image of your own photo printed on Canvas and stretched to hang on the wall. Prices start from Lm 42, for a 60cm x 60 cm stretched canvas print. Wallart Tel:2149 0984 or 7991 4306

New hands-free video door entry unit from Bticino features a high resolution LCD display and is available in a range of finishes to match interior décor. Prices start from Lm600.00 for a 2-zone system. Future Habitats, Upper Constitution Str., Mosta.

The Sonos multi-room digital music system allows you to play digital music all over your house and control it all from the palm of your hand. Prices starting from Lm400.00 for a complete system. Future Habitats, Upper Constitution Str., Mosta.

“Anissa “ and “Roses”, coordinating harmonious floral designs in beautiful ceramic by Sia, make part of the new and extensive range of vases with matching accessories. One Two One Interiors – 21st September Avenue, Naxxar.

Monobloc rocking armchair in rotational moulding polyethylene in sand white colour outside and orange colour inside with indoor and outdoor use. W. 80 D. 104 H. 78; seat H. 42,5. TFS (The Furniture Store - member of Studio Moda Group), San Gwann. Tel: 2138 6812.

Tel: 2142 2948/9

Modern stainless steel pots & planters in various shapes and sizes. Asia Arts, 39, Abate Rigord Street, Ta` Xbiex. Tel: 2133 5688, Mob: 7982 2785.

Superior quality ceramic pots & planters for all interiors & outdoor embelishment, offering practicality & durabality in a variety of colours, sizes, & shapes, from Asia Arts, 39, Abate Rigord Str, Ta`Xbiex. Tel: 2133 5688, Mob: 7982 2785.

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FREEDOM

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The clients’ free-spirited lifestyle and love for modern design inspired architectural designer Mark Pace to create a space that looks and feels exceptional.

Words Mark pace with Lisa Borain PHOTOS kurt arrigo

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ne great limitation of an architectural designer is when the client imposes his or her ideas upon them. They are given a brief, but very often, the client doesn’t actually know what they really want.

In this sense, this project was perfectly apt for Mark Pace.

He was given complete design carte blanche, with only one brief: to make it look distinctive.

The apartment block was built on columns of concrete enabling structural changes: more living space was created by turning an extra bedroom into an additional study/ T.V. area; shaft windows were lowered to improve natural lighting. All furniture was custom-made to functionally confine spaces in the open layout, including details like flash doors.

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A variety of materials were used in making the residence unmistakable: concrete columns were left exposed and hammered, creating a striking contrast between the smooth lines of the plastered walls; statuario marble and black granite were used as kitchen surfaces; kitchen units were made out of lacquered MDF; a split level made of solid African walnut wood contrasts with the polished grey terrazzo floor; glass was used to divide dining and kitchen areas.

A theatrical atmosphere is created with architectural lighting using hidden neon (as in the blue light in the bathroom, which gives the sensation of water) and bespoke Emma Armstrong black shades and halogens within the soffits. HW

Everything was custom-made and a fusion of materials was used - Statuario marble, black granite, MDF lacquered, solid African walnut wood and glass. The drawered light box is 9 metres in length and divides the living room and formal dining area.

With the halogens, the box and frame cannot be seen as the gypsum is cut precisely within the box.

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The entire apartment block was built on columns of concrete, including the lift shaft. The concrete was hammered so that it was exposed, creating a striking contrast between the perfect modern straight lines and the rough texture of the concrete.

Furniture units are all kept at low level for a better visual effect.

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Clean and minimal. Each space creates a mood: from a natural relaxing, reflective environment to a bright, uncomplicated, practical space.

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Kitchens 101

Malta is pushing forward fast when it comes to kitchen design and

products. Whether you’re in the initial planning stages or want to renovate your kitchen, there’s so much to choose from and think of that it can be positively dizzying. HOMEWORKS outlines what you should be thinking about and the possibilities of what you could be thinking about...

Words GUY Laguens PHOTOS Alan carville Credits aplan, core, fenton, fino

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Space Planning Your lifestyle should determine the functionality of your kitchen, not the other way around. The work triangle is not a law, merely a suggestion. Although it can be a helpful tool, don’t let it inhibit you from thinking outside the triangle when it comes to designing your kitchen.

The dominant geometric shapes in most kitchens are the foursided variety, from rectangular cabinetry to square appliances.

But it is a triangle—albeit an imaginary one—that has always been an important element of a kitchen’s design and functionality.

The “work triangle” is an imaginary straight line drawn from the centre of the sink, to the centre of the cooktop, to the centre of the refrigerator and finally back to the sink.

However, as helpful as the work triangle may be, it still isn’t without flaw. It assumes that a kitchen will only have three major work stations and one person cooking. As kitchens grow in size and feature more than three workspaces, the regular work triangle isn’t always practical. And in many households today, two or more people share cooking duties.

Because of these issues, designers do not always play by the triangle’s rules when it comes to drafting kitchen plans.

“Work Triangle” Guidelines: 1.

The sum of the work triangle’s three sides should not exceed 7.9 metres, and each leg should measure between 1.2 and 2.7 metres.

2.

The work triangle should not cut through an island or peninsula by more than 30 centimetres.

If the kitchen has only one sink, it should be placed between or across from the cooking surface, preparation area, or refrigerator.

3.

4.

No major traffic patterns should cross through the triangle.

Efficiency is the triangle’s main goal, as it keeps all the major work stations near the cook, without placing them so close that the kitchen becomes cramped. The work triangle is also designed to minimize traffic within the kitchen so the cook isn’t interrupted or interfered with.

You need to make sure that the items that you use regularly are within easy reach, while the items that you don’t use all the time are stored neatly and conveniently. This is where zone designing (designing your kitchen in zones, or areas) comes in. It’s a practical (and increasingly popular) way to group common activities together. Instead of the work triangle, consider the four zones of your kitchen: food prep, cooking, baking, and cleaning. By identifying what you do in each space, you’ll be able to determine the cabinetry and cabinetry accessories that you need there.

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Food Prep:

Baking:

Cooking:

Cleaning:

This is where it all begins: In the food prep zone, you slice and dice your way toward dinner. If your kitchen were spacious enough to accommodate an island, the food prep zone would be well-placed there. It’s helpful to include a second sink for rinsing fruits and vegetables, as well as a refrigerator drawer for storing milk and eggs if your main refrigerator isn’t easily accessible.

Aside from the appropriate countertop space and material (marble slabs work best for rolling dough), you’ll need to keep a number of supplies within easy reach.

Consider including: apothecary drawers for storing small items like cookie cutters, bins for flour and sugar, a tray divider rollout for baking sheets and pizza pans, a pulldown cookbook rack, drawers for rolling pins, measuring cups, and teaspoons.

Think about easy-to-reach cabinet space for heavy casserole dishes and mixing bowls, storage for oven mitts, pot holders, and trivets, divided utensil storage for spatulas and wooden spoons, as well as a pop-up stand for your mixer.

Always a hot place to be, the cooking zone is where fire enters the picture. Centered around the range or cooktop, this is the spot where stir-frys, spaghetti, and sauces sizzle. You may want to keep your microwave and toaster oven here as well. Here, you might want to include deep drawers for pans, a shallower drawer for pot lids, a spice drawer (or cleverly hidden racks in pull out corbels that flank the cooktop), a microwave cabinet for concealing and saving countertop space and a utensil drawer for spatulas and spoons.

Anchored by your sink and dishwasher, the cleaning area is the home of water and washing.

Be sure to keep “water dependent products” like your coffeemaker and salad spinner nearby. You’ll also be emptying the last bits of lasagna and soup into containers here, so keep storage supplies nearby. Include space for an adequate number of cleaning and drying supplies, as well as a convenient way to store clean dishware. Here, you can include a pullout rack to neatly tuck dishtowels, a plate rack for storing daily or occasional dinnerware, an undersink pullout for dishwashing detergent and cleaner, a tilt out sink tray for sponges and scrubbers, a foil box rack or drawer for aluminum foil, paper, and plastic wrap storage, a pullout drawer for Tupperware, divided for lids and containers.

Don’t forget about the “dining zone.”

Though there’s a lot more flexibility involved with designing your eating area, consider adding easily accessible storage for tablecloths, placemats, napkins, or infrequently used china.

Things to consider including here are a butcher block pullout (if you aren’t working on a butcher block surface), a drawer for knives, pullouts for mixing, measuring and serving items and a pullout trash centre.

Budget If you walked into a Lm15,000 kitchen, you’d expect to see some materials and details that you wouldn’t find in a Lm5,000 kitchen. Of course, it’s difficult to put combinations of different design elements under the right price bracket, but the below chart is a rough indication of what your budget can get you: Design Element

Lm1,500 – Lm7,000

Lm7,000- Lm12,000

Lm12,000 +

Cabinets Stock Semi-custom Custom Appliances

Freestanding with Built-in with Freestanding with professional-style panelled fronts and standard features features standard features Countertops

Laminate

Wood, tile or solid surface

Stainless steel, stone or solid surface

Flooring Vinyl, laminate or linoleum Tile Stone or hardwood

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Sinks & faucets

Stainless steel, selfrimming single or double bowl

Multiple undermounted, enamelled cast iron or stainless steel sinks

Multiple solid surface, integral sinks and potfiller faucet by the range

Architectural details

Painted or vinyl walls and ceilings with simple or no mouldings and trim

Wood-panelled or plastered walls and ceilings with some detail work in mouldings and trim

Beamed or pressed-tin ceilings, stuccoed walls, extensive mouldings and trim, hand-carved accents, glass tops, and chrome finishes

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Kitchens 101

Shopping tips Refrigerators

Dishwashers

Ranges and Ovens

Top-freezer models are more energy efficient than side-by-side models Optional features such as icemakers, water dispensers and anti-sweat heaters use more energy Automatic moisture control uses less energy than an anti-sweat heater Automatic defrost freezers use more energy than manual defrost Higher-efficiency refrigerators tend to be quieter Automatic icemakers and through-thedoor water and ice dispensers increase energy use Chest freezers tend to be more efficient than upright freezers.

Choose the right size for your home. Although a 24-inch standard model works for most homes, an 18-inch compact model might help singles avoid running half loads, and a 30-inch model could cut down on the number of loads required by large families or frequent entertainers.

Opt for a glass-fronted oven, allowing you to check on food’s progress without opening the door and wasting heat energy Self-cleaning ovens have more insulation and therefore are more energy efficient Gas ranges and ovens are slightly more efficient than electric models If purchasing a gas oven or range, choose one with an electric or pilotless ignition system rather than a pilot light that burns constantly If purchasing an electric range or cooktop, look for burners that use halogen elements under glass rather than traditional coil elements or solid disk elements Induction cooktops use less energy than both traditional electric cooktops and gas cooktops Consider an Energy Star-qualified range hood.

contemporary

Contemporary means exposed beams, glass block, and concrete countertops. Consider frameless cabinetry for a sleek look, enhanced by a flat slab door style in resin or stainless steel. When making your cabinet selection, choose details like geometric patterns; plain, clean lines; metal and glass accents; and elongated stainless steel pulls.

Look for a dishwasher with cycle options such as light, short or energy saver.

rustic

Rustic means natural. The rustic style manifests itself in natural wood furnishings and handmade items.

Look toward plank doors or simple panelled doors done in natural and rough-hewn woods like pine, alder or maple.

old world

traditional

transitional

Transitional means a natural setting meets a contemporary slant. When making your cabinet selection, consider birch as a clean and modern wood species. Choose details like geometric forms, art glass, contrasting textures and lines, and forged and wrought iron pulls.

Old World means elegance meets with antique European charm. Consider using a beaded inset door; sand the corners of each door for a rounded, worn effect, enhanced by finger latches. The finish reigns supreme; painted cabinetry that displays antiquing, distressing, chaining, wormholing and cracking gives an authentic look of days past.

Enhance the period’s furniture look with valance legs and flushed toes.

Traditional means elegant and time-honoured design. A traditional kitchen calls for a traditional cabinet. Opt for a classic raised panel door style with extensive crown moulding at top. Rich woods like cherry and deep finishes add elegance, while adding ornate features such as mullion glass panels and carved valences emphasize timeless sophistication.

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HOMEIDEAS New collection of laundry baskets in a multitude of sizes and designs. Prices from Lm13.95. Gifts & More at Topline, St. Andrews and Franks Concept Store, Mosta Tel: 2137 2256.

Roman blinds that can be used in combination with curtains or on their own and are tailored to client’s requirements and supplied in a vast range of colours and fabrics. Starting from Lm55.00 Biggie Best, Vjal ir-Rihan, Naxxar Road, San Gwann. Tel: 2138 8880

Harmonise your living space with high quality, coordinated fabrics (from Lm5.95 per metre) and accessories. Biggie Best, Vjal ir-Rihan, Naxxar Road, San Gwann. Tel: 2138 8880

Choose from an excellent range of bathroom accessories, helping you de-clutter, while making your bathroom look great.

Contemp, 119, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara.

Tel: 2144 2116.

Linea Oro 24 Carat Gold Plated door handles (with charcoal textured finish).

Lm 32.00 / Euros 74.54.

Protrade Limited, Triq is-Sebh, Qormi. Tel: 2148 7644, 2148 5203.

Clear your clutter in style with the new range of magazine racks in various styles, colours and materials. Prices from Lm14.95. Gifts & More at Topline, St. Andrews and Franks Concept Store, Mosta. Tel: 2137 2256.

Create your own wardrobe, filing cabinet or modular wall unit with the newly launched made-to-measure sliding doors system.

Protrade Limited, Triq isSebh, Qormi.

Tel: 2148 7644, 2148 5203.

Pantarei sliding door system available in three different metals: stainless steel, luminous yet neutral corten steel with its warm rusty shades and burnished brass for a sophisticated traditional finish. The House Shop, Tower Road, Sliema. Tel: 2133 4226

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HOMEWORKS

COOL IT

We live in a climate that gives good reason to invest in an air conditioner. Yet surprisingly, air-conditioned indoor spaces are still not the norm, though more and more people are investing in one every year. Being too hot has various implications. Most prominent is the effect it has on health and performance.

Words GUY Laguens PHOTOS Courtesy of Medairco

Why get an AC? There is a close correlation between an operative’s personal performance and the temperature of his immediate surroundings.

Performance begins to drop at about 22°C whilst above 26°C, it falls dramatically.

Beyond temperature control, air conditioning is also humidity control, ventilation and filtration. The way houses and buildings are constructed to conserve energy has reduced the natural ventilation of fresh air, which, in the worst case, results in sick building syndrome.

When you stop ventilation of the house, you’ll reduce the energy required to heat and cool the house. But this means also that humidity levels are maintained within the house by re-circulating the same air and pollutants day after day. Dust, smoke, bacteria, viruses, mould, fungus, mildew and gasses circulate through the house.

Filtration is critical for persons with allergies.

Air conditioning offers solutions to lower the concentration of indoor air pollutants by way of ventilation, filters and humidity control. Every air conditioning unit has a filter – the type of filter depending on the type of system.

How An Air Conditioner Works: 1. A fan blows the hot indoor air over a heat exchanging coil through which cold refrigerant flows. The cold refrigerant absorbs the heat from the air and cooled air is blown into the room.

2. The refrigerant circulates through the units and the piping and takes the heat from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit.

3. Through compression, the refrigerant gas is heated and its boiling point increases. In the outdoor unit the obtained heat through compression is released to the outdoor air by means of a fan, which blows the outdoor air over a heat exchanging coil.

4. The liquid refrigerant flows back to the indoor unit.

5. Back in the indoor unit, the refrigerant is decompressed and thus enabled to extract heat form the indoor air.

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HOMEWORKS What Does an AC do exactly?

The principle of air conditioning is to absorb energy in one place and release it in another. Air conditioners should offer precise temperature control, both with cooling and heating. It is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional heating because it takes energy from the outside air and brings it inside.

Air conditioning units are equipped with filters that take dust, pollen and smoke from the air. In cooling mode, an air conditioner dehumidifies the air and corrects the humidity level, which limits the growth of dust mites and moulds.

Inverter units are the latest in air conditioning technology, thus they’re the most expensive. The inverter has a variable speed compressor, which means that the air conditioning unit works according to the load. Standard air conditioners have a compressor that kicks in, reaches the room temperature and then stops. With an inverter, you have a curve – it’s automatic, like climate control and saves a lot of electricity. The price difference between a unit with an inverter and one without it is approximately Lm100.00. However, the energy saving between to the two is approximately 30% on heating & 20% on cooling.

How Do You Choose?

What you choose all depends on your budget and style. Several factors determine which equipment is the best solution for you to create the right climate. Try to contact an installer to guide you, but also keep the following questions in mind: To what extent do you want to control the indoor climate?

Do you want cooling only? Or do you also want ventilation and/or heating? The choice will determine the type of system.

How many and what kind of rooms are you thinking of? In the case of more than one room, it is possible to connect several indoor units to one outdoor unit.

Is the room in a shop? An office? A bedroom or living room? Each application requires its own system.

How big is the room? What kind of capacity do you need? A system with too high capacity will lead to draught, fluctuating temperatures and high energy bills.

With a too low capacity you will never reach the desired temperature. Choosing the right capacity is mainly having an installer calculate the capacity needed. He will take into account the influences on the capacity need like solar infiltration, lighting, number of occupants, etc.

Where do you wish to place the unit? The outdoor unit should get an appropriate place, on a solid base and accessible for maintenance. The indoor unit model choice will be determined by the possibilities to place the unit. Is there a false ceiling? Is there free space on the wall? , etc. Also, the location of the unit is of great importance. Each unit has its own air distribution pattern. A wrong location may lead to draught and sound.

The main different types of units are floor or ceiling mounted flexi units (prices range from approx. Lm580-900), wall mounted units (prices range from approx.

Lm300-1800), concealed units (prices range from approx. Lm900-2000), cassette units (prices range from approx. Lm900- 1700) and floor standing units, which can be fitted into the wall completely (prices range from approx. Lm600-900).

How do you know what you’re getting?

There are manufacturers and importers that are distributing literature that is not certified, meaning that specifications listed could be completely different to the actual air conditioner’s specifications. For example, the literature could indicate that the air conditioner’s cooling capacity is 24000 Btu/Hr, when the air conditioner is 18000 Btu/Hr. Consumers should always look out for an EV (Euro Vent) certification mark.

Euro Vent Certification certifies the performance ratings of air-conditioning and refrigeration products according to European and international standards. The objective is to build up customer confidence by levelling the competitive playing field for all manufacturers and by increasing the integrity and accuracy of the industrial performance ratings.

There are many manufacturers and importers that have guarantees that have not been certified. In this case, there is no official stamp of certification. When you have a catalogue that’s EV certified, you can easily make comparisons between units because the standard is set.

To check out what’s on the market in Malta, a wide variety of air conditioners are on display at the end of June at The International Trade Fair, Naxxar Fair Grounds. HW A special thank you to Mark Migneco at Medairco and Jackie Camilleri at Teckno.

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HOMEIDEAS Part of a new collection, which has just arrived. Prices ranging from Lm5.00Lm24.00. Junction 66, 66, Tower Road, Sliema. Tel: 2133 4451 and Arkadia, Gozo.

Black marble bookends: Lm15.50, Tall clear vase: Lm23.00, Dancing figures: Lm26.00, Marble photo frame: Lm6.50. Junction 66, 66, Tower Road, Sliema. Tel: 2133 4451 and Arkadia, Gozo.

No home is complete without an Alessi product – functional, beautiful to handle and now affordable. Prices starting from Lm15.00. Alessi collection at the Petrolea Shop ‘n’ Shop, 26, Merchants Street, Valletta Tel: 21 234 501, Arkadia – Gozo Tel: 2210 3320, Studio Moda – San Gwann.

The Rosle Open Kitchen System is the ideal solution to kitchen storage problems with a simple concept: a bar that attaches to the wall from which to hang your utensils and equipment. Living Interiors, Luqa Briffa Street, Gzira. Tel: 2134 1166.

Iittala cutlery represents simplicity of form balanced by sensual oval handles and intriguing diagonal prongs of the fork. Artik Set starting from Lm2.88. Wedding lists accepted at core, Upper Valley Road, B’Kara. Tel: 2144 3449

Iittala Tools are a high quality range of pots and pans designed in collaboration with top chefs and material specialists. Tools starting from Lm 31.85. Wedding lists accepted at core, Upper Valley Road, B’Kara.

Tel: 2144 3449

A novelty from Rosenthal in which each setting looks different, has its own individual character and everything fits together perfectly. The House Shop, Tower Road, Sliema.

Tel: 2133 4226.

Tognana: An Italian leader in Porcelain tableware has produced Theorema, an outstanding design, which combines functionality & aesthetics. Starting from Lm2.25. Cose Casa, Balzan Tel: 2144 7672/3, Gzira Tel: 2133 5794, Paola Tel: 2189 6230, Gozo – Arcadia Tel: 2210 3000.

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HOMEIDEAS New range of outdoor wicker garden furniture arriving soon at The House Shop, Tower Road, Sliema.

Tel: 2133 4226.

Create a happier and healthier lifestyle for you and your loved ones with the relaxed atmosphere that a spa creates. Seating 6 persons, price: Lm2650.00 inc. vat. Aqualine Ltd, 26-28, Mill Street, Qormi. Tel: 2149 3400.

The Hydropool Swimspa fits perfectly in small spaces and provides the family with all the benefits of a large pool. Aqualine Ltd., 26-28, Mill Street, Qormi. Tel: 2149 3400.

Leather reclining armchair.

Lm85.00. Roxy Home Funishings, 800 High Street, Hamrun. Tel: 2122 4537.

Nardi resin garden furniture (with a wood-like finish) with a 4-year guarantee.

HomeTrends, Ind. Estate, San Gwann or High Street, Hamrun.

Tel: 2144 5456.

A 3 in 1 chair, that can convert from a normal comfortable armchair, into a relaxing reclining chair, and a chair lift, ideal for senior citizens or persons with back injuries......with only a push of a button, one can change from one position to the other. The chair is complete with an electric motor and remote control, available from R Living – Mreihel by-pass Qormi tel: 21499699

Bernasa sofa collection, available in different types of fabric and designs.

R Living, Mriehel By-Pass.

Tel: 2149 9699

Best quality Scandinavian Solid Pine Bedrooms with a wide choice of settings including main and spare bedrooms. Spare bedroom prices from Lm199.00. Granny Smith St. Paul’s Street, Naxxar.

Tel: 2141 8984.

Bespoke antique reproductions available in different stains in Tudor, Victorian and French Period Styles for customised bedrooms, dining rooms, home office and libraries.

Granny Smith Antea Collection, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara. Tel: 2149 0620, Granny Smith, St. Paul’s Street, Naxxar. Tel: 2141 8984

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Grand Garden This is the garden of all gardens, an absolute gem in the enigmatic and captivating village of Lija.

Words lisa Borain PHOTOS alan Carville

I

t’s hard to believe that such grand gardens exist on an Island where space is such a rarity. This beautiful garden in Lija has been around for some time; it’s proof lies in the large walls that were built over a hundred years ago.

The current garden design is not so different from its original state, with the garden sectioned off into five different areas: the first, an area adorned with a large variety of floral. Here lies a pathway that leads both to the heart of the garden as well as to the lawn.

The heart of the garden is where the abundant and healthy citrus trees grow, cut into four sections by a flagstone path with a small roundabout of ranunculus flowers in the middle, which create symmetry, as well as colour.

This area is lush and full, bearing fruits on a large scale. The smell of the flower buds is intoxicating and this is truly the spirit of the grounds. This is also where one of the two wells is located, one pumping water to the other.

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One of the secrets, I suspect, to having such a grand garden, is to keep things as simple as possible

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An archway with a wrought iron gate links this to the large lawn that holds a well-manicured tennis court and pool house. This then leads off to the integral vegetable patch, which earns the owners the opportunity to be entirely self sufficient in herbs and vegetables. Cabbage, green beans, mange tout, broccoli, cauliflower, a variety of lettuce and various other vegetables have the perfect conditions to flourish. Olive trees allow the owners to produce their own olive oil.

The garden is truly characterised by the quaint paths that link one section to another. When the owners moved in, the paths were covered by another stone, which they uncovered only to find very old flagstones that replenish the garden with the essence it now holds.

Of course, a garden of this magnitude needs maintenance. The man of the house is a keen gardener, but there is also full-time staff that tend to the garden daily.

One of the secrets, I suspect, to having such a grand garden, is to keep things as simple as possible. The garden does not hold any difficult flowers or plants; all are comfortable in Maltese climate, if not indigenous. Mange tout in the vegetable patch seems to be one of the few unusual growths, but evidently grows very well, despite its lack of popularity with local farmers.

The owners of the grounds are in it for the right reasons - to be self-sufficient in vegetation, but most importantly, to enjoy the infinite pleasures a flourishing garden so surely brings. HW 077

HOMEWORKS The Initial Plans

Once the main structure is defined, the planting will bring it to life and give each space a very particular feel.

Creating your space

W

ith a small garden, the planner must be aware of the limitations of the plot. The challenge is to achieve the desired effect within narrow boundaries, always bearing in mind that a visual link between the house and the garden is of great importance.

In all cases, but especially in these, a garden should work as an extension of the house, both practically and visually.

Not only does the house lead out into the garden, but also the garden can usually be seen from the windows of the house and should harmonise with the interior as much as possible.

While the form that a garden takes depends primarily on its function, the style must respect the location, the surroundings and the period of the house.

Thought must be given to building materials and to the interior of the house itself. Mixing materials and styles is rarely successful, although occasionally a strong contrast in style can work by shock tactics.

Once the fundamental style of the garden has emerged, the actual

Consider using alternative props to create the illusion of space:

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The Importance of

Infusion: Words JOE VELLA PHOTOS Alan Carville

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Executive Hilton Malta Chef Joe Vella talks about the value of a good marinade and the significant difference it makes in the final taste.

he main purpose of a marinade is to infuse the meat with flavours , and to make the texture a little softer. A small quantity of marinade added to a game stock or used to deglaze a roasting pan will delicately perfume the jus.

out or turn it as this will ruin the marinade, turning it sour and making it unusable. Put the meat in a large enough non-metal container. The marinating time is determined by the size of each piece. For instance, a leg of lamb will need 8 hours in the marinade, while a fillet of beef will need 2 hours.

Always use a fork or tongs when handling meat in a marinade, never use your finger to put it in, take it

Ideally, meat should be stored at 4 degrees.

Remember to remove it from the fridge and allow it

Marinade 1 - Lamb

1 tsp. ground cumin 1 tsp. English mustard 1⁄2 tsp. coriander 1⁄2 tsp. dry tarragon 1 tsp. zest of orange 1⁄2 tsp. Maltese honey salt & pepper

Marinade 2 - Meat

1 tsp. ground cumin 1 tsp. allspices 1 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. curry 1 tsp. crushed garlic 1 crushed anchovy salt & pepper

to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. Always keep raw meat away from cooked meat.

The below recipes are used to create an almost smoky aroma, while forming a crusty coating on the outside of the meat. Simply mix the following ingredients together.

Marinade 3 - Meat

Marinade 4 - Meat Poultry and fish

30g powder of dried wild mushroom 1 tsp. fresh thyme 1 tsp. fresh rosemary 1 tsp. crushed garlic 1⁄2 tsp. lemon zest

Mix all the below in a bowl and leave to infuse for 2 hours in the fridge.

2 tsp. whole grain mustard 1 tsp. olive oil 1 tsp. Maltese honey 1 tsp. walnut oil 1 tsp. crushed ginger 1 tsp. crushed garlic 1 tsp. lime juice 1 tsp. orange juice 1 tsp. chopped sage salt & pepper 081

Preferred Spices Pumpkin seeds, nutmeg, curry, fennel seeds, ground cloves.

Caraway seeds, sage, ginger, paprika, cumin.

1

HOMEcuisine

Barbecue Glaze

2

Recommended Delicata wine

Pork - Medina Vineyards

Method: Blend all the ingredients together. Leave the mixture in the fridge to infuse for 1 hour.

Poultry - Maltese Falcon White 2006

Ingredients: 1 tsp. curry powder 100 ml coconut cream 2 tsp. Soya sauce 2 tsp. olive oil 1 tsp. sugar 1 tsp. lemon grass 1 tsp. crushed garlic 1⁄4 tsp. chilli 1 tsp. lemon juice 1 tsp. chopped thyme salt & pepper

Lemon coriander mustard marinade

3

Recommended Delicata wine

Veal - Victoria Heights Chardonnay 2006

Method: Combine all the ingredients in a bowl. To marinate the fish, set some lemon slices at the bottom of a stainless steal dish and lay the fish on the lemon.

Put all the marination on top, leaving the fish to marinate overnight.

Fish - Medina Vineyards

Ingredients: 4 tbsp. vegetable oil 1 tbsp. olive oil 2 tbsp. Dijon mustard 2 tbsp. crushed garlic 2 tbsp. white wine 2 tbsp. chopped coriander 2 tbsp. lemon juice 1⁄4 zest of lemon 1⁄4 zest of orange zest

Asian Marinade

4

Method: Combine all the ingredients, mix the marination with the meat and leave it to marinate overnight.

Recommended Delicata wine

Beef - Victoria Heights Merlot 2006

1

Ingredients: 1 tbsp. Soya sauce 1 tbsp. sweet chilli sauce 1 tbsp. fish sauce 6 tbsp. olive oil Juice of half a lemon 1 tsp.crushed ginger 1 tsp.crushed garlic clove 1 tsp.honey salt and pepper

Lamb - Maltese Falcon Red 2006

4

Yoghurt Marinade Recommended Delicata wine

Fish - Medina Vineyards Rosé Grenache 2006

2

Method: Mix all the ingredients in a bowl, leave the mixture in the fridge for 2 hours and then marinate the lamb.

Poultry - Dolcino Bianco

Ingredients: 150ml Greek yoghurt 1 tbsp. paprika 1 tbsp. lemon juice 1 tbsp. cumin 1 tbsp. diced fresh tomato 1⁄2 tsp.Maltese honey salt and pepper

3

083

Apertures

ALUMINIUM

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AIR CONDITIONING

ANTIQUES

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BATHROOMS

BATHROOMS

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FLOORING

HOME CLEANING

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GLASS

FURNISHING

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insurance

GARDEN SUPPLIES

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LANDSCAPING

KITCHENS

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LIGHTING

LIGHTING

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Paints

Landscaping

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Security

SILVERWARE

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Solar Heating

Solar Heating

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Tiles

Solar Heating

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Model Mood design S. Barsacchi

The “best seller” kitchen from Italy can be found at: Aplan Centre B’Kara Bypass B’Kara BKR 14 Malta Tel: 00356 21 480590 Email: scavolini@aplan.com.mt

System of Quality Management UNI EN ISO 9001 System of Environmental Management UNI EN ISO 14001

Please download our general catalogue from www.scavolini.com

Scavolini S.p.A. 61025 Montelabbate (PU) - Italia Tel. +39 0721443333 Fax: +39 0721443413 contact@scavolini.com www.scavolini.com

The “best seller” from Italy

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ISSUE 24 APRIL 07

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ISSUE 24.07 LM 1.50 where sold

BRILLIANT 230 Tower Road, Sliema

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CABOCHE Design: Patricia Urquiola + Eliana Gerotto