HOMEWORKS 40

ISSUE 40

ISSUE 40 DECEMBER 09

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KOMMA

Model Mood design S. Barsacchi

The “best seller” kitchen from Italy can be found at: Aplan Centre B’Kara Bypass B’Kara BKR 9037 Malta Tel: 00356 21 480590 Email: scavolini@aplan.com.mt

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

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Scavolini uses only Idroleb panels for the carcase of its kitchens: a water repellent V100 panel with the lowest formaldehyde content presently available in the world.

System of Quality Management UNI EN ISO 9001

Discover Scavolini’s commitment for a cleaner world on www.scavolinigreenmind.com

System of Health & Safety Management OHSAS 18001

System of Environmental Management UNI EN ISO 14001

The “best seller” from Italy

16/11/2009 13:01 23-10-2009 14:17:27

The “best seller” kitchen from Italy can be found at: Aplan Centre B’Kara Bypass B’Kara BKR 9037 Malta Tel: 00356 21 480590 Email: scavolini@aplan.com.mt

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

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Scavolini uses only Idroleb panels for the carcase of its kitchens: a water repellent V100 panel with the lowest formaldehyde content presently available in the world.

System of Quality Management UNI EN ISO 9001

Discover Scavolini’s commitment for a cleaner world on www.scavolinigreenmind.com

System of Health & Safety Management OHSAS 18001

System of Environmental Management UNI EN ISO 14001

The “best seller” from Italy

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UPSIDE-DOWN LIVING ZILLAH BUGEJA

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welcome to

“Christmas is a time when you get homesick – even when you’re home.”

- Carol Nelson Christmas is the perfect time for HOMEWORKS, with all its style inspiration, home cosiness and senses appeal. What’s better at Christmastime than a charmingly decorated and warm home, with the presence of a happy family all wrapped up with one another? It doesn’t matter whether it’s in an apartment, a maisonette or a villa; Christmas spirit around the home is a spectacular thing.

This issue of HOMEWORKS, we encourage that Christmas joy in “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” (page 046), featuring a revelation of homemade ornaments, decorations, advent calendars, wreath ideas and stockings, amongst others. The instructions of how to make the crafts are included so there’s really no excuse this Christmas not to spend some quality time with the family making festive creations.

MODERN INTERIOR, CLASSIC VIEW GUY LAGUENS

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This edition has got to be one of the strongest yet in terms of home prowess. We feature three stunning homes, all very significant and distinct in style.

Architect Martin Xuereb blows us away with a grandly contemporary home in Bahar ic-Caghaq. (Page 020) Interior Designers Penny Apap Brown and Annabel Caruana design an ultra chic apartment in Birgu for a travelling investor. (Page 030) Dame Sue Armour designs her own Tigné Point apartment in Sliema, indicating that simple really is more, particularly if you have a magnificent view to make the most of. (Page 038) This issue is positively brimming with boisterous Christmas merriment. On that note, I’ll take this opportunity to thank all you readers out there for supporting HOMEWORKS throughout the year by the taking time to flip through our pages and supply us with feedback and suggestions.

“A merry Christmas to everybody! A happy New Year to all the world!”

THE GLAM PAD ELISABETH CARDONA

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HOME TRENDS 015

CHRISTMAS CRAFT IDEAS HOMEWORKS FEATURE

046 DECORATING IDEAS HOMEWORKS FEATURE

049 CUISINE AND WINE WITH DELICATA

069 007 HOMEWINNERS 009 HOMENEWS 015 CHRISTMAS HOME TRENDS 020 UPSIDE-DOWN LIVING 030 MODERN INTERIOR, CLASSIC VIEW 038 THE GLAM PAD

WREATH IDEAS HOMEWORKS FEATURE

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046 CHRISTMAS CRAFT IDEAS 049 DECORATING CRAFT IDEAS 054 ORNAMENT CRAFT IDEAS 061 ADVENT CALENDAR IDEAS 063 STOCKING IDEAS 064 WREATH IDEAS 069 CUISINE AND WINE WITH DELICATA 077 CHRISTMAS CRAFT HOW-TO 084 HOMEWORKS A-Z OF SUPPLIERS 003

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™

ISSUE 40.09

HOMECOMPETITION

This Edition:

We want your Feedback!

Editor Lisa Borain

Forward your ideas outlining what you would like to see published in HOMEWORKS.

PUBLICATION COORDINATOR TROIKA ZAMMIT

The person submitting the most interesting idea or concept will receive two glass stemmed candle holders, Courtesy of JDS Furniture, Mellieha.

Art Director Marc Spiteri

Send your ideas to:

Design CHRIS PSAILA MAS Communications

HOMEWORKS Feedback, Level 5, Airways House, High Street, Sliema SLM 1551 or email: info@writeon.com.mt

Photography MAS ALAN CARVILLE contributors ZILLAH BUGEJA ELISABETH CARDONA silvana cini BILL HERMITAGE GUY LAGUENS Anne marie quercia Sales & Marketing 2133 9999 Pre-press and Printing Progress Press Postal Address / E-mail WriteOn Ltd. Airways House, Level 5, High Street, Sliema SLM 1551 Malta info@writeon.com.mt

HOMEWORKS is a registered

NEIL AZZOPARDI IS THE WINNER OF THE 19” SHADE WITH PATTERNED WALLPAPER INNER COVER AND TURQUOISE OUTER FABRIC, COURTESY OF STEM INTERIORS, WORTH €99.

Neil wrote: Dear Editor,

“Thank you to the HOMEWORKS team for creating such a brilliant publication. We have just bought our first home so our suggestion for an article is how to treat a small budget. We’d like to know from an interior designer’s point of view, what furniture pieces need heavier investment while which others can be purchased inexpensively. For instance, are all lower budget sofas relatively in the same price bracket, or is this a piece that can be purchased for much less? The same goes for coffee tables, televisions, kitchens, etc. Your help on this subject would save us a lot of time (and expensive probably)!”

Neil Azzopardi

READERSWROTE

trademark of writeon Ltd.

“First of all well done for HOMEWORKS! It brings a smile on my face whenever I discover it together with the Sunday Times. I always read it first because it’s packed with beautiful pictures and layout, information and inspiration!

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.

My suggestion is an article on exploring local styles in other parts of the world. For example, the ‘Swedish style’, with its beautiful honey coloured wood and saunas; the Chalet style with its cosy furniture; the Provencal style, Parisian Style... the list is infinite. I’d also like to learn how to recreate the style in Malta and where to find the furniture and décor to do it.”

Isabelle Cachia Morena

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. © 2009

NEEDSYOU! 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., Airways House, Level 5, High Street, Sliema SLM 1551 Malta or info@writeon.com.mt (photos will not be returned)

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YOUR PERFECT BALANCE OF LEISURE AND LIVING

Restaurants

Offices

Homes

Shops

Culture

Leisure

Forming part of one of the most forward-looking and comprehensive real estate projects ever planned for Malta, TignĂŠ Point includes a vibrant mix of waterfront and garden homes, sophisticated offices, stylish shopping, trendy cafĂŠs, historical attractions and state-of-the-art health and leisure amenities; all set in a safe, convenient, car-free environment, just seconds from the sea.

For further information call (+356) 2065 5510 email info@tignepoint.com or visit www.tignepoint.com

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HOMENEWS

DOMESTICA KARTELL COLLECTION

The Kartell collection is now available at the Domestica showroom. Designed in colours ranging from shocking orange to glossy black, the Louis Ghost chair will fit elegantly with any other style and is also available without arm rests. It’s the ultimate style statement for the home.

LIVING CONCEPT LONG WEEKEND EXTRAVAGANZA

During Living Concept’s Long Weekend Extravaganza will take place between Saturday December 5th and Tuesday December 8th. During this weekend, customers will have the opportunity to be amongst the first to see and explore Living Concept’s new products, as well as to engage in a list of activities. Customers are invited to eat, drink and entertain themselves free of charge while turning their houses into homes.

CAMILLERIPARIS-MODE SID DICKENS

DONEO TRADE-IN

Doneo in Hamrun is now offering the opportunity for customers to trade in their bulky outdated surround system for a new Bose 3.2.1 DVD entertainment system, and get from €150 to €350 for their old system. The Bose 3.2.1 DVD surround system delivers the excitement of five big speakers from just two tiny speakers.

The new active catalogue for SID Dickens has just arrived in time for the Christmas season. These unusual memory blocks are highly collectible pieces made from hand-crafted plaster, some finished to a porcelain-like quality, others to resemble weathered stone. Some images are hand-painted in vibrant colours, while others in monochrome. Gold or silver leafing is frequently used to create the desired effect.

SERENDIPITY NEW RANGE Serendipity are introducing a new range of original items to their shop. East of India have a beautiful range of gifts, which are designed ‘in-house’ – handmade and hand-finished by artisans using traditional methods. Serendipity boasts unique discoveries and ideal gift ideas for Christmas.

R LIVING ALPA SALOTTI

Now available at R Living in Qormi are ALPA Salotti sitting rooms. ALPA Salotti focuses on the Italian art of creating original and different products with strong lines and a clear design. The products are suitable to new metropolitan generations who enjoy the taste of exclusiveness and uniqueness.

The company has been established since 1955 and produces advanced design upholstery, covered with selected fabrics and soft leather, accompanied by accessories.

VINCI FREE GIFT

Vinci is now offering a free gift with every purchase over €100. Offer until stocks last. Various styles available.

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HOMENEWS

SATARIANOHOME NEW SHOWROOM

Satariano have just opened their new state-of-the-art showroom, Satarianohome in Pieta.

The 3-storey flagship showroom is located on the main road accessing Valletta through Sa Maison, and houses a vast range of bedroom, living and dining room furniture, fabric and leather sofas, occasional furniture, free-standing and walk-in wardrobes, rugs and other decorative items. The showroom has an excellent line-up, consisting of mainly exclusively represented Italian brands. Satariano would like to invite their customers to feel free to discuss any of their home finishing and furnishing needs at either the Valley Road or the new Pieta showrooms.

BIG BEN 25TH ANNIVERSARY

Big Ben Interiors is celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. Big Ben’s flagship outlet holds 3 levels covering 4000 square metres, offering a wide range of exclusive cut-length curtain material and wall paper, bed linen, carpets, parquet flooring, custom-made curtains, soft furnishings and more.

JDS GIFT LINE

JDS has now introduced a wide selection of exclusive gifts, inclusive of both modern and classical acrylic christmas ornaments. JDS will be open all day on the 8th and 13th of December, from 9.30am-7.00pm.

M. DEMAJO TIMBER NEW WEBSITE

M. Demajo Timbers Ltd. has recently launched the website www.demajotimbers.com, where customers, as well as trade partners, including architects, contractors, and designers, can avail themselves of the detailed information and product specifications of all the company’s products and brands. From solid wood, to Kaindl laminate parquet, decking, as well as the alternative bamboo flooring, the company is well suited to handle any flooring requirements. A sign up feature on the website enables users to be part of their membership, keeping them in the loop of new products, offers or interesting articles related to their trade.

AUNTIELUCY FOSCARINI LAUNCH

Auntielucy launched the new product collection from Foscarini at Auntielucy Lights; their newly refurbished lighting showroom on Tower Road, Sliema. The event was hosted by Foscarini export manager Denis Dal Ben and industrial designer Vincente Garcia Jimenez.

The new 2009 Foscarini range will be added to the large selection of decorative and technical lighting already available at the store.

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MDINA GLASS OPEN WEEK

The exceptional high standard, quality and design interpretation of Mdina Glass hand-made items will be displayed in all their splendour at the Mdina Glass Open Week. Pride of place will go to a range of vases reproduced in exquisite shapes and resplendent colours, which bring out the best of the renowned craftsmanship of their artisans.

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122, Msida Valley Road. B’Kara T: 2149 2149 Gozo Agent: Caruana & Cini Ltd T: 2155 1918 www.satariano.com

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HOMETRENDS

THIS YEAR, CHRISTMAS IS FUN, CHARISMATIC AND DREAMY...

WHITE AND DREAMY

CASUAL COLOURS

MULTI-COLOURED FUN

CRYSTAL CLEAR

2009 ALESSI KITCHEN WARE RANGE

CHRISTMAS COLOURS 2009 According to the Messe Frankfurt seasonal decor tradeshow Christmasworld, the four major colour trends for 2009 consists of dreamy palettes and elements from the themes airy, sweet, comfort and obsession.

Comfort Materials and finishes: Natural stone in a range of nuances and patterns, metallic finishes such as chrome and aluminium from polished to brushed, mirrors and glass, linear and graphic structures and engravings, facets, prisms and fine grid structures.

Wood from untreated to polished bark, lamb’s wool and suede; ceramics, beeswax, cord and flannel, fine and course knit, handmade lace.

Airy Materials and finishes: Marble, alabaster, ivory, glazed porcelain and bisque, satinised, transparent, translucent materials, crystal-clear finishes that look almost cast, crystal glass with faceting, mother of pearl, enamel, lace, chiffon, organza, silk, voile, iridescent and high-gloss finishes, polished and velvety, matt and dry, powdery and chalky.

Obsession Materials and finishes: Lead crystal, Murano glass, coloured glass, gemstones and paste jewellery, bronze and gold elements, superior wood such as mahogany and teak, silk, jacquards, satins, taffetas, velvets, embroidered, embossed, stamped, applied, fur, leather and feathers, ornamental relief structures, engravings, painted, highgloss finishes.

Sweet Materials and finishes: Plastic, paint, rubber, acrylic, paper, painted surfaces, gently coloured glass, porcelain, tulle and satin ribbons, lace smoke effects and sequins, eyelet patterns and ruches, pearls and pear embroidery, cottonised finishes, sugar-coated, candied and glazed.

2009 ALESSI CHRISTMAS RANGE

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CHRISTMAS

thank

y u Another year and another multitude of people to thank for making it possible for HOMEWORKS to continue bringing readers inspiration, innovation and style.

thank you to the following for allowing editorial content to be so rich and full of ideas, vibrancy and inspiration: Greta Apap Bologna, Greta Designs – Interior Design Penny Apap Brown & Annabel Caruana, Duo Designers – Interior Design Architects Studio – Architecture Architecture Project – Architecture Emma Armstrong, Stem Interiors – Styling Kurt Arrigo – Photography Norbert Attard – Art Olivia Attard – Editorial Neil Azzopardi & Alison Gauci – Homeowners Marta Ballabio, DI PALMA ASSOCIATI – Editorial Melosaul Balzan – Garden Paul Barnes & Terry Shaw – Homeowners Chris Briffa – Architecture Debbie Brown Barnett – Furniture Design Zillah Bugeja – Editorial Konrad Buhagiar – Architecture & Editorial Kurt Camilleri – Architecture Elisabeth Cardona – Editorial Alan Carville – Photography Mark Cassar – Photography Annmarie Coppola & Mickael Marceau – Homeowners Ann Dingli – Architecture & Editorial

Ruben Farrugia – Cuisine Wayne Flask, Ideacasa – Editorial Roger Friggieri – Cuisine Antoine Gatt – Landscaping Christine Gingell, Ideacasa – Editorial Lyndon Hadley-Coates – Editorial Bill Hermitage, Emmanuel Delicata Winery – Editorial & Wine Michelle Ivankovic – Product Design Guy Laguens – Editorial MAS – Photography Charlie Mejlak – Cuisine Matthew James Mercieca – Architecture Denise Mulholland – Homeowner Laurent Muller – Design Michelle O’Reilly – Interior Design Mark Pace – Architecture David Pisani/Metropolis – Photography Paola Porro – Handle Design David Pulis – Cuisine Ian Saliba – CuisinE Herman Sciffo – Landscaping Terry Shaw – Homeowner _spacestudio – Architecture

Kenneth Tanti – Interior Design Roderick Vella – Cuisine Godwin Vella – Architecture Allen Venables – Photography Emma Warrington – Architecture Troika Zammit – Styling Gianni Zammit – Homeowner Darrin Zammit Lupi – Photography Michael Zammit Maempel – Homeowner Thank you to those at Progress Press:

Thank you to the close members of the team who make it all possible on a daily basis: Matthew Downing, Design Assistant Johan Aquilina, Financial Controller Claire Camilleri, Administrator Yana Carabott, Bookings Administrator Claire Kennington, Administrator Chris Psaila, Designer Marc Spiteri, Artistic Director & Director Troika Zammit, Publication Coordinator & Sales Administrator

Joe Camilleri Alex Falzon Adrian Hillman Mark Sciberras

Of course, since HOMEWORKS is a complimentary publication, our quality of production depends on those advertisers who continue to support us year after year. THANK YOU all for your continuous support and loyalty.

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UPSIDE-DOWN

LIVING IT TAKES MORE THAN EXPANSES OF GLASS TO MAKE THE MOST OF A LOCATION WITH A VIEW. ARCHITECT MARTIN XUEREB HAS USED AN ARSENAL OF FEATURES TO REALISE A LIVING SPACE WITHOUT BOUNDARIES BETWEEN ITSELF AND THE PANORAMA OUTSIDE. THE RESULT IS A HOUSE DESTINED TO BECOME A CLASSIC. Words: Zillah Bugeja Photos: Alan Carville Floral: Alistair Styling: Jackie Xuereb

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CHRISTMAS

The owners Elaine and Charles Mangion worked together with architect Martin Xuereb to achieve this stunning project.

The brief was simple: to take full advantage of the surrounding views. Architectural, structural, electrical and interior design was all by Martin Xuereb, backed by MXA’s structural engineering team and in-house interior design team. The job was made easier for Martin and his team thanks to the clients’ appreciation and understanding of innovative design.

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THE HOUSE PORTRAYS A SENSE OF TRANQUILLITY AND ALTHOUGH MODERN IN ITS DESIGN, IS NOT INTRUSIVE WITHIN ITS NATURAL SURROUNDINGS. THE FEATURES USED SHOULD STAND THE TEST OF TIME.

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CHRISTMAS

The idea of flow, in all directions and dimensions, is apparent throughout the home.

It feels so natural that you enter the house on the top floor, totally contrary to the norm. A gradual, stepped entrance leading to the front door avoids having one long staircase.

The external entrance walls were designed specifically for the light features leading up to the main door. They give attractive pockets of light, like miniature doorways which illuminate both the steps and into the garden, giving unity to the hard and soft elements.

The main door is a modern take on the traditional fanlight. Its slim steel frame with glass surround allows natural light into the home during the day and lights up at night in a welcoming gesture that tells the entrant exactly where to go.

The home has a gentle, terraced feel on the top level, with steps here and there allowing for gradual height changes to maximise the view, much like the stepped rows of a theatre.

The main living areas have been situated on the top floor precisely to obtain the best views.

Even the master bedroom and bathroom enjoy this vantage point.

The terrace that runs the length of the living and dining room has a punctured base covered by a steel mesh to allow a view of the pool beneath, which otherwise could not have been enjoyed.

The use of external weight-bearing columns, as opposed to internal columns, is a rare feature in Malta. It allows for a continuity of glass in the corner of the property, hence allowing unobstructed views and themselves being barely noticeable.

A two-storey high window and open stairs leading to the lower floor allow light to penetrate while also allowing views of the outside.

On the lower floor, a full glass wall was preferred to one with sliding doors because a mullion would have interfered with the view.

This way, two side doors can be opened to allow air in and the view is unobstructed, with the outside becoming very much part of the room, feeling like one undivided space.

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BOV Home Loans

is it time to have that garden you’ve always wanted?

BOV can help you upgrade your home by offering you a wide range of home loans to suit your requirements.

The garden you’ve been dreaming of is just a step away.

For further enquiries, send a blank sms to 7969 6975

BOV 21236

Apply online at www.bov.com Loans are subject to normal bank lending criteria and final approval from your BOV branch.

Terms & conditions apply. Each sms costs 5 cent.

Issued by Bank of Valletta p.l.c., 58, Zachary Street, Valletta VLT 1130 - Malta

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CHRISTMAS

The top floor kitchen is south-facing. While the top floor kitchen has been centrally placed for practicality, it is not the first thing you notice when entering the home, as so often happens.

It has sea and country views at the front and also overlooks an external terrace, which in turn overlooks the back garden, which is lovely for whoever is cooking. The main feature in the back garden is a Malta hard-stone feature wall which incorporates a cascade which leads to the pond.

The eye is gently led down the jutting stones shapes under the bridge-like terrace to the stone slabs around the pool.

Martin: Normally in a living room, either the TV or the fireplace would be the main focus, but we didn’t want to detract from the view. We put the fireplace in a central spot within the upper floor living space and the TV is on a custom-made, innovative sliding panel that can be completely hidden from sight to maximise the view even

more. This configuration can give equal importance to the view on the left, the TV in the centre and the fireplace on the right.

The owners love to cook and entertain and the property allows this due to its functional design.

The property has an unusual layout in that the majority of bedrooms are on the lower floor, the same level of the pool, having views of the pool and the surrounding area. There are two kitchens: one leading on to the pool deck and another kitchen on the top floor. The kitchen close to the pool area naturally comes into its own in summer and has become part of the children’s living and entertainment area.

Martin: The pool is an important element and was designed to be part and parcel of the house.

I don’t like pools that seem to have been an afterthought. This one has been integrated totally into the house and feels like it is with you inside.

It goes under the decking, giving the impression

that it goes under the property, in the same way that the pond goes under the south-facing terrace.

There is a play, a natural flow between the vertical surface of the pool itself and the surrounding areas. The decking is a visual and textural juxtaposition for the dark grey marble on the opposite side of the pool (which has been carried down the inside of the pool), with the glass vertical surround edge detail acting like a bridge between them. The glass lights up, giving the impression that the pool is raised up and it looks like a glass platform from a distance.

Eight water-jet features in the swimming pool plus water blower in the middle of the pool allow for the formation of fountains of varying heights.

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CHRISTMAS

Martin: Much thought was given to the layout of the bedrooms. The living areas are open, while the bedrooms are cosy. You wouldn’t normally put a bed in the centre of the room such as we did in the single bedroom featured here, but we felt it was a nice way of splitting the room. Its orientation towards the TV gives the room a comfortable, living room feel, while the low gypsum partition behind it allows ample space behind the bed for a shoe rack and wardrobe.

The master bedroom has been positioned within the property away from the entertaining areas. In the master bedroom and bathroom, all the storage units were custom-made, including the practical concealed pull-out cupboards in the vanity, the drawers that double as a window seat, TV wall and wardrobe. The bathroom was placed on a higher level than the bedroom and is an open space so that the view can be enjoyed.

I didn’t want the bedroom doors to stand out. They are unconventional in that they are full height and disguised by being flush with the panelling on the corridor walls. This gives continuity and flow to the space.

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CHRISTMAS

AN EXTENSIVE USE OF GLASS WAS UTILISED ON THE FAÇADE OF THE HOUSE THAT OVERLOOKS THE POOL AND BEYOND TO THE SEA. THIS PRIVATE SIDE OF THE HOME IS AS MUCH PART OF THE OUTDOORS AS POSSIBLE.

Charles Mangion: Doing up houses is my hobby and I took an active role in this project.

The grating in the terrace that allows us to see the pool from the top floor, even while sitting down, was my idea. My favourite element is the stairs with the wall in the middle which I had first seen in an architecture book. The garden with pond was my wife’s idea.

We all wanted a pool that was large enough for entertaining purposes. The children really enjoy the cascades and when they are here, every water feature has to be switched on. Our dining table extends for 14 people and is often used for that many. The house is always bustling, it’s a real home.

We are very happy with it and at night the house is even nicer than during the day thanks to the lighting scheme.

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MODERN INTERIOR CLASSIC VIEW

Words: Guy Laguens Photos: MAS Interior Design & Styling: Duo Designers Floral: Alistair

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CHRISTMAS

THE INTERNATIONAL INVESTOR CLIENT’S BRIEF TO INTERIOR DESIGNERS PENNY APAP BROWN AND ANNABEL CARUANA WAS TO CREATE AN ENTERTAINMENT-FRIENDLY, SOPHISTICATED AND LUXURIOUS APARTMENT

The owner of this high-end, high-tech waterfront apartment owns a number of properties worldwide, travels extensively and enjoys entertaining. From the living area there is a stunning view of the entrance to Grand Harbour providing him with a window to the world of cruise liners, oil tankers, powerboats and even the romantic luzzu plying their trade in the Mediterranean.

The client’s brief was for the designers to create a sophisticated living space geared for entertaining, whether for a party for friends, a function for international business clients or for a quiet night watching a film on the full screen projection. The space was designed precisely to accommodate this lifestyle.

Duo Designers took two adjacent apartments, opened them up and fused them together, seamlessly creating one large, ultra-modern open plan space on the edge of the water. The

spacious accommodation includes a comfortable living area with a concealed cinema, a baby grand piano, a dining area for ten and a buffet area with chafing dishes for functions, which are professionally catered for. The space also contains a sleek, elegant kitchen, an all-season, outdoor/indoor spa deck with a five-person spa tub, a bar area and a grill on the deck. At the rear of the apartment there is a sauna room, a gym, as well as the owner’s own and guest accommodation. An office with the technology to link him instantly to his companies worldwide is separated behind a glass wall from the living area.

Since the client enjoys cooking surrounded by his friends, it was important that the kitchen was integrated into the living space without appearing out of place with black leather and cowhide sofas, amongst the other elegant furniture.

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I WENT FOR BLACK BECAUSE IT’S SO CHIC AND IF USED CORRECTLY IS TIMELESS. BLACK IS THE FOUNDATION FROM WHICH ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.

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CHRISTMAS

The main challenge that the design and management team had to address was the lack of space on the narrow terraces. The client wanted a spacious sun deck area with a big spa tub, partially open to the sea and adjacent to the lounge area. The weight of the tub required underlying reinforced beams and both the external and internal deck floor levels had to be equalized. Extra outdoor space was achieved by removing the original glazed terrace doors and commissioning new sliding ones that could slide out of sight into a purpose -built cavity wall.

Penny: “The apartment is really modern so I wanted to introduce an organic element in the spa area. I chose a warm honey coloured tropical, seasoned, hard wood and rough textured grey slate for the floor, had it laser cut to follow a random curve and included river stones, to give it a more earthy look.”

The tub was also clad in a similar timber.

The spa sun deck is enclosed by full height frameless glass walls allowing the lounge area to be independently air conditioned in hot weather. On cool days, the terrace doors can be closed and the glass spa deck walls open up to integrate with the lounge area. This glass wall also serves as a backdrop for automated blackout blinds and a projection screen concealed in the ceiling.

Large sliding glass doors allow for the maximisation of the stunning entrance to Grand Harbour view.

The colour scheme in the apartment is predominately black, ochre-meets-mustard and silver. Penny: “I went for black because it’s so chic and if used correctly, I believe it’s timeless. Black is the foundation from which anything is possible. Mustard signifies heat and warms the black. The cushions on the leather sofa are silk, abstract designs by an Italian design house. I used a similar design on the under plates on the dining table. With black as the key non-colour, change is always possible.

I could change the scheme in a matter or hours. Black is never boring, which is why I love working with it. It makes a room different, not necessarily small. Sometimes if you take a small room and paint it white it can become very boring. But if you take a small room and paint it black it becomes an intimate space.”

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The golden, face flattering glow and ambiance focused onto the dining table rather than the guests makes for a relaxed dinner and a good flow of conversation.

Penny: “I like using glossy lacquered finishes on surfaces because they act as magnets for both artificial and natural light, drawing light deeper into the darker corridors and back rooms. I incorporated many light moods in this apartment, all of which work from on an intelligent system. I do my own lighting design – I am constantly observing light wherever and whenever I travel.”

The apartment functions with state-of-the-art technology; inclusive of a centralised server system that supports a wide array of functions. Alarms, lighting, DVDs (library), music (play lists), a systems library, acclimatisation and Internet are all accessed through this system from each room and zone The client: “This was imperative for me because I need to be able to control a lot of things from different countries. With this system even if I am in another country I can unlock the door and turn off the alarm in Malta for the housekeeper to come in. I can turn the lights on for a couple of hours to make it appear as if someone is at home when I am actually abroad. I’m also alerted every time someone enters, even if they have a key, so I know who has been going in and out and at what time.”

It was important that the kitchen was integrated into the living space without appearing out of place. It was achieved with black, lacquered, tall units, which appear to melt into the elegant, black, wallpapered wall behind them. The kitchen island unit has ample storage inside the circular, revolving base cupboards, making it easy to maintain an uncluttered workspace.

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All the menus for this technology are accessed from the television. The remote control works like a mouse, which detects motion from movement. The projection screen is the size of the spa wall and possesses an extremely high resolution, making it perfect for watching DVDs (complete with a surround sound system) or as a very large computer monitor.

Angels on dining table and glass necklaces on tree courtesy of Mdina Glass.

The apartment had to be more of a “night-time place” due to the client’s working hours and travel commitments, as well as his guest entertainment requirements. The eclectic and dramatic lighting includes pockets of light virtually everywhere, as well as in small unique surprises. The golden, face flattering glow and ambiance focused onto the

dining table rather than the guests makes for a relaxed dinner and a good flow of conversation. There are LEDs in the living/dining area dividing column, which create a subtle star-like light.

The small blue lights in the spa floor complement the blue interior of the tub and signify water.

Penny: “I like to create a lot of different lighting scenarios because we all experience mood changes, from energetic to mellow – a clever lighting menu allows for this. I really think this is what makes for a great atmosphere.”

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THE GLAM PAD

Words: Guy Laguens Photos: MAS Floral: Alistair

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CHRISTMAS

THERE IS A RULE IN INTERIOR DECORATING THAT SAYS, “EVERY ROOM CAN USE A TOUCH OF BLACK”. THE INTERIOR OF THIS STUNNING TIGNÉ POINT APARTMENT IS ESSENTIALLY ONE WITH AN ALL-WHITE BACKDROP, CONTRASTED BY THE EXTENSIVE USE OF BLACK IN ACCESSORIES. IN THIS INSTANCE, THE USE OF BLACK ADDS A FOCAL POINT THAT GROUNDS, ANCHORS AND CREATES A SOPHISTICATED LOOK TO THIS STUNNING APARTMENT. The main objective of the design of the seafront apartment was to maximise the stunning view. The occupant of the residence, Dame Sue Armour took advantage of the open and airy feel by extensively using black and white. The backdrop and furniture is all white, while the black touches help catch the eye and sharpen the decorating scheme, serving as an outline that sets off specific areas or objects.

The result of the strict colour scheme is a fresh, clean and unquestionably elegant look. There’s a fine line with black and white though; excessive use of any one of the colours could make a space look dull or at worst, stark.

Here, the white background reflects light, as well as giving an airy and fresh look to the space. The walls are white, save for the back wall of the living area, which is a dark brown colour, as well as the back wall of the kitchen, which is a slightly darker brown.

The white walls serve as a perfect background for the two canvases at the back of the white leather sofa and the Aboriginal painting that Sue acquired during her time in New Zealand. To avoid sterility in this relatively allwhite area, a large black area rug was used for the living area. The glass coffee table top then serves its purpose without being overbearing.

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TIMELESSFURNITURE

Tower Street Msida (near a to z electronics) Tel: +356 2149 1931 Email: info@moodsfurniture.com Web: www.moodsfurniture.com

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CHRISTMAS

“... BRIGHT COLOURS ARE JUST NOT MY STYLE AND I DON’T FIND THEM RELAXING...”

Sue Armour: “Black and white have always been my favourite colours to use when decorating a new space. They’re easy to abide by and the result is always chic. Bright colours are just not my style and I don’t find them relaxing, while a black and white scheme really makes me feel comfortable; it’s easy on the eye and it doesn’t jar me when I’m trying to wind down.”

The main feature of the space is the black marbled kitchen island, which reflects the view onto its seamless surface. This island allows the space to lay out extremely well in the social sense, as it’s the first place guests perch upon while chatting to the hostess before dinner. The main dining table sits outside on the glass-sectioned large terrace and during the winter months, the kitchen island also serves as the main dining area.

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Sue: “It’s pointless having a view like this and not focusing everything towards it. When guests come over, they want to enjoy the view. The large window between the view and the kitchen completely opens up, allowing the vista to become part of the inside. It creates such a spacious feel that it’s actually like being al fresco.”

The clever lighting design of the space adds impact to the scene, changing the space from fresh during the day, to moody by night. The extensive use of mirrored surfaces allows for exquisite reflections, which bring the space glamour and romance.

This space is living evidence that when used properly, the most basic black and white can create a sensational look. It also proves that less is definitely more – as long as the backdrop is created through quality materials, the details will shine.

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Wall Box by Florida

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r

a, d y.

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Have yourself

a merry little

Christmas...

Crafts: Silvana Cini, Annemarie Quercia Photos: MAS

There’s nothing better at Christmas time than filling the home with handmade ornaments, decorations and crafts. Lift the family’s spirits and get into the jolly mood this season by trying some of these festive HOMEWORKS’ Christmas home ideas.

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CHRISTMAS

Decorating ideas

From lollypops for the kids to elegant gold door ornaments, we’ve compiled some of the prettiest Christmas craft decorations and ideas to dress up your home during the holidays.

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CHRISTMAS

DECORATINGIDEAS

Continued

TO GET THE HOW-TO, GO TO PAGE 077.

01

02

03

04

PAPER EVERGREENS Get that great white north feel in the home with these paper trees.

SWEET LOLLYPOPS These lollypops are lots of fun to make with the kids and look great as a display in a jar. It’s also a good idea to wrap them in plastic and give them away as small presents.

GILDED PINECONES Elegant and easy, these golden pinecones hung by a satin ribbon are ideal for front door handles or even to hang from windows.

HOLLY GIFT TAGS Why buy tags when you can make a gift that more personal with a handmade gift tag.

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Dining | Living | Sleeping | Sitting | Outdoor Furniture ST PAUL STREET NAXXAR NXR 2480 | TEL: 2143 7945/4 H. DECOR MGARR ROAD GOZO | TEL: 2156 3235 EMAIL: info@studio9.com.mt

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DECORATINGIDEAS

Continued

05

DECORATIVE KUGEL Make an entrance with a decorative kugel (German for “ball”).

It’s a unique idea and relatively easy to create.

07

JOLLY NAPKIN HOLDERS Don’t go through the hassle of finding festive napkin holders for your Christmas table setting – make each one different with your choice of embellishments.

TO GET THE HOW-TO, GO TO PAGES 077-079

06

MITTEN CLIPS A festive way to hold your letters together. Also a fun way to clip Santa’s letter to the fireplace garland before his visit.

08

HAPPY BASKETS These are lovely as ornaments, or for decoration around the house.

Fill them with sweeties and put someone in the spirit every time they walk by.

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Ornament ideas

Handmade ornaments are easy and fun to make.

Try one of these crafts to hang in your home – or to give as a present – this season.

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CHRISTMAS

ORNAMENTIDEAS

Continued

TO GET THE HOW-TO, GO TO PAGES 079-081

09

10

TINSEL SNOWFLAKES The more sparkle, the better at Christmas time. These are really easy to make and each one can be completely different – just like real snow flakes.

CLOTHES PIN DOLLS These playful doll ornaments are created from old-fashioned wooden clothes pins and are great because they can be clipped to virtually anything.

11

BUTTON ORNAMENTS Easy and inexpensive: these cute ornaments don’t require very much craft shopping if you have old buttons around the house.

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ORNAMENTIDEAS

Continued

TO GET THE HOW-TO, GO TO PAGE 081.

12

DOILY ORNAMENTS If you’re not that keen on the homemade look for ornaments, this is the one to do, as these doily ornaments are so delicate that they almost look like real snowflakes.

13

CANDY CANE ORNAMENTS Easy and effective are these colourful and fun candy cane ornaments. This is one to do with the kids for the first time around – they’re so easy that the second time around, they will be able to do it all by themselves.

14

DRUM BOX ORNAMENTS Drum-shaped ornaments are among the most iconic Christmas decorations. But you don’t need to scour antiques stores to drum up your own set – it doesn’t take much to make your own.

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losanga element free - wc.bidet.big.sospesi 56 - www.gsisanitari.it

Banju Boutique Arcade Street, Paola PLA 1212, Malta Tel: (+356) 21 809111 - 21 809112 Fax: (+356) 21 809114 info@banjuboutique.com www.banjuboutique.com

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Advent Calendar

TO GET THE HOW-TO, GO TO PAGES 081-083.

ideas

For a twist on the classic advent calendar try one of our innovative ideas – keep the tradition without the traditional look.

15 BOXY ADVENT Advent calendars are so much fun because each day brings a new surprise. A great alternative to the traditional ones is to create a box for each day – the bright colours attract the kids even more.

16 ENVELOPE ADVENT These are great to get the kids going with creating their own crafts; allows them creativity too, since they can draw whatever shapes they like.

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Stocking

ideas

CHRISTMAS

TO GET THE HOW-TO, GO TO PAGE 083.

Line the mantle with colourful and innovative handmade stockings that invite stuffing.

17

18

19

20

WHITE CHRISTMAS STOCKING There’s something traditional about a felt stocking, but something contemporary about white. Get a bit of both with this white felt stocking.

CREPE PAPER STOCKINGS These charming miniature stockings made of crepe paper and filled with sweets make perfect gifts and party favours.

MUG STOCKING An innovative way to create a multitude of sweet pockets in replacement of a more traditional stocking, the mug stocking is perfect if you have a lot of children running around the home!

THE BIG RED It doesn’t get more Christmassy than a festively decorated red felt stocking – reminds us all that Christmas really is the time to be merry.

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Wreath

ideas

Whether you prefer rustic or radiant, our wreath ideas will brighten any door or window.

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Wreaths made by Anne Marie Quercia Photo: MAS

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Bella Vista Street, San Gwann Tel: +356 2137 1891 Fax: +356 2138 6305 E-Mail: info@the-tile.com www.the-tile.com

Our products are distinguished by the unmistakable quality of the best Italian traditions: timeless style & elegance

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Mamma mia!

CUISINE

Chefs Kenneth Cortis and Andre Falzon of Mamma Mia, Ta’Xbiex together with Emmanuel Delicata Winery bring HOMEWORKS three main courses that will warm tummies this winter. Bill Hermitage from Delicata suggests the perfect wine accompaniment for each dish.

Red Mulllet & Langoustine Antipasto Ingredients for the aubergine caviar: 1

aubergine garlic, minced salt rosemary

Ingredients for the red mullet 2

6 2.5cl

red mullet, filleted (250g) lemon flour seasoning saffron langoustines, shelled chilli oil

Method: For the aubergine caviar: Split the aubergines in half. Place the garlic, oil, rosemary and salt on top of the aubergines and wrap in foil. Bake for 45 minutes in a 225º oven.

Then, lower the heat to 115º and bake for a further 20 minutes. Open the foil and leave to cool until they are cool enough to be handled. Take the aubergine filling out on a chopping board and chop finely. Heat the filling in a pan until the water evaporates. Leave to cool and store.

For the red mullet: Fillet and scale the fish, season and add some lemon drops and saffron strands. Shallow fry them for 30 seconds on each side.

For the langoustines: Split the shells in half, take out the meat, season and add some lemon. Shallow fry them in some butter and oil.

PHOTOS: MAS

When all three parts are completed, pour the aubergine and caviar puree’ over the dish. Place the red mullet fillet over this, then place the langoustines over the red mullet. Place aubergine slices on the langoustines and place the red mullet over these slices. Garnish with shredded aubergine skins and drizzle chilli oil over the top.

BEST WINE ACCOMPANIMENT: 2008 MEDINA SAUVIGNON BLANC D.O.K. MALTA “With the red mullet and langoustines being pan fried in butter and lemon, my wine choice would automatically be an unoaked dry white wine. Then we have an aubergine caviar that contains minced garlic and rosemary, which is not particularly heavy in flavour but might be heavier than the fish. I will therefore require a white wine that is not too light, but one that has a bit of weight and character. A good choice, which easily meets all the criteria is the Medina Sauvignon Blanc with its clean, fruity, full flavours.”

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CUISINE

Oven Baked Rack of Lamb Ingredients: 2tbs 100g 50g & 20g 100g 1 small 1 50ml 50ml 150g 250ml

granule mustard potato butter spinach onion, chopped clove garlic white wine cream blueberries white wine vinegar

Method: Season the rack of lamb and rub with the granule mustard. Heat the oven to 200º and cook for seven minutes.

Boil the potato in salted water until soft. Drain and add 50g of butter and mash.

Cook the chopped onions and garlic in the remaining butter in a pan until they soften up. Add the spinach and cook for another five minutes. Add the wine and leave to reduce. Add the cream and cook for one minute more. Remove from the heat and blend.

Cook the blueberries in a pan with water; add sugar and vinegar and leave to reduce. Blend and pass through a steamer.

With a ring on the plate, put three parts of the mashed potato, press well and add the spinach puree, as well as the rest of the mashed potato on top and press well.

Remove the ring; place the rack of lamb on the side of the potato. With a small ladle pour the sauce on the plate.

BEST WINE ACCOMPANIMENT: 2008 PJAZZA REGINA RED I.G.T. MALTESE ISLANDS – SYRAH MERLOT SANGIOVESE “Roast lamb in almost any shape or form is probably going to need a red wine to accompany it. But in this dish we have other things to consider like mustard mash, creamed vegetables and a blueberry sauce. Therefore we do not really want a red wine that has too many tannins, or that is very, very strong, but we definitely need one that is fruity and soft. My choice would be the Pjazza Regina Red, which has all the qualifications required to make this a good marriage.”

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CUISINE

Pappardella with Broccoli, Bacon & Cream

Ingredients: 1 5 1 5 cup 200g

red onion, finely chopped slices of bacon broccoli, small zucchini florettes cream pasta

Method: Pan fry the onions in a little oil and butter until softened.

Add bacon and cream, cook for two minutes; add Parmesan cheese. Remove the pan from heat and leave aside.

Boil the broccoli and pasta in two separate pots. When ready, mix the sauce from the pan, pasta, broccoli and zucchini florettes together.

Stir and Serve.

BEST WINE ACCOMPANIMENT: 2008 GRAND VIN DE HAUTEVILLE VIOGNIER D.O.K. MALTA “The strongest flavours in this straight-forward pasta dish are the bacon, red onion and Parmesan cheese.

The other ingredients like broccoli and zucchini are fairly neutral so up to this point we could actually go for either a white or a red wine, if it was light enough. But then there is the element of cream and for me red wine and cream clash terribly so again I would go for a dry white. In this instance, I have gone for the Hauteville Viognier because it is slightly on the heavy side and has medium acidity, which will marry well with the cream and cheese flavours and have sufficient flavour to cope with the slightly salty flavour of the bacon.�

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SHAKER

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CHRISTMAS

DECORATINGIDEAS

Continued

Stir the gold paint. Wearing gloves, dip the pinecones in the paint to coat; hang on the rod in the box. Let dry (for at least 1 day). Remove the wire and then thread with the ribbon.

Attach another 3 holly leaves with adhesive foam dots over the “flat” holly leaves, slightly offset, with stems at the centre of the circle.

Glue another 3 berries onto the raised holly stems with a dot of craft glue. Thread the gingham ribbon through the hole of the scallop gift tag.

01. Paper Evergreens Materials: • Green poster paper • Small gold beads • Wooden skewers • Spools • Hot-glue gun • Craft knife • Bone folder

Method: For large Christmas trees, use an adjustable circle cutter to make 5, 8, 10, 13 and 15 centimetre diameter circles from green card stock (for small trees, omit the 15-centimetre circle). Fold each circle in half 4 times with the bone folder.

While circles are folded, snip off the tip of each piece, forming a very small hole in the centre.

Place the smallest circle on the pointed end of a wooden skewer (we used 30-centimetre skewers), letting the tip poke through the hole in the circle. With a hot-glue gun, dab the underside of the circle, where paper and skewer meet. Hold for 10 seconds to secure. Working one at a time from smallest circle to largest, slide the remaining circles onto the skewer; secure with glue. Insert the bottom of the skewer into a spool; remove, and cut skewer to the desired height (we cut ours to 15, 23, and 25 centimetres), keeping in mind that only the spool should be visible beneath standing tree. Return the skewer to the spool; secure with glue. Add a dot of glue to the top of the skewer and attach a gold bead.

02. Gilded pinecones Materials: • Pinecones • Gold paint • Wire • Cream satin ribbon

Method: In a ventilated area, line a surface with plastic and then paper. Secure a rod across an open cardboard box. Insert a screw eye into base of each pinecone. Attach a 25.5 centimetre-long wire to each screw eye.

03. Jar Lollypops Materials: • Jelly tots • Sugar coated fruit pastilles • Lollypop sticks • Jar • Sugar

Method: Slide the fruit pastilles and jelly tots on to the lollypop sticks to create your own characters.

05. Decorative Kugel Materials: • Large jablo egg • Metallic crepe paper red • Large golden ribbon (approximately 1 metre) • Medium green ribbon (approximately 1 metre) • Green small wreath • Red Christmas balls • Cardboard tube (approximately 10cm long) • String (to hang to the ceiling) • Glue • Tape • Wooden bead with large hole

Method: Fold the string in two. Make a small hole at the top of the egg, add some glue, insert in the centre of the rope and leave to dry. Secure with some tape around the hole.

04. Holly Gift Tags Materials: • Circle cutter • Brown card stock • Cream card stock • Hole punch • Green felt • Light green gift tags • Glue pen • Craft glue • Adhesive foam dots • Gingham ribbon

Wrap the egg with crepe paper making sure you leave the rope outside. Decorate the egg with the ribbons. Wrap the cardboard tube with crepe paper.

Cut 2 strings of string and attach them to the centre of the wreath to form a cross in the centre. Decorate the wreath with the Christmas balls.

Pass the rope that has been fixed in the egg first through the tube, then through two opposite corners of the cross you’ve made in the centre of the wreath. Thread the wooden bead. Centre and adjust the whole, then glue the bead in place, which will help to keep all the pieces centred. Fix to the ceiling or doorframe.

Method: With the circle cutter, cut a 7.5 centimetre brown circle and a 5 centimetre cream circle from the card stock. Cut 6 green holly leaf shapes out of the green felt. Punch 6 red berries with the hole punch.

To assemble, attach a scallop gift tag to the centre of the brown circle with adhesive foam dots. Attach the cream circle to the centre of the scallop tag with adhesive foam dots.

Using the glue pen, glue 3 holly leaves to the cream circle, with points meeting in the centre. Glue 3 red berries where the holly leaves meet in the centre.

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A

T F E W

Dun Karm Xerri Street, Iklin BZN 11, Malta. +356 21 419 111 +356 21 485 126 farrugialight@waldonet.net.mt www.farrugia.com.mt

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CHRISTMAS

DECORATINGIDEAS

Continued

the template you’re using includes shoes). Let dry, for approximately 5 minutes.

Draw the facial features on the head with a marker.

Working carefully, use the awl to make a hole in the top of the head. Screw in the screw eye.

06. Mitten Fridge Magnets Materials: • Coloured felt pieces • Card • PVA glue • Glitter glue • Clothes pegs • Self-adhesive magnets • Embellishments, such as pompoms, sequins, buttons, etc.

Method: Cut the felt pieces and card according to the mitten template. Glue the felt piece on the card and let dry.

When dry, decorate as you wish with glitter glue and also embellishments like pompoms and buttons.

Cut out another piece of felt from the template and glue it to the back of the mitten. When dry, apply glue on one side of the clothes peg and stick it on the back of the mitten, on the other side of the clothes peg. Now apply the self-adhesive magnet.

08. Happy Bags Materials: • Different felt pieces • Glitter glue • Matching machine thread • Embellishments • Coloured rope

Method:

07. Napkin Holders Materials:

Materials:

• Felt pieces (green, red and white) • Glue • Clothes peg • Embellishments, such as pompoms, sequins, beans, etc.

• Glitter glue

• Clothes pins (the kind without springs; craft clothes pins work best) • Acrylic paint in several colours, including flesh • Extra fine permanent marker • Awl • 1.5 centimetre screw eye • Material for clothing, such as felt, lace, ribbon, & beads • Scissors • Cotton balls • Craft glue

Cut the pieces of felt about 2.5-centimetre thick and 10-centimetres long. Fold the felt piece around your index and middle finger to form a ring. Apply the glue, take the clothes peg and put it where the ends meet so it will dry neatly. When dried, decorate as you like.

Cut arms from a double thickness of felt, matching the colour of the felt to that of the doll’s clothing. Glue two pieces of felt together and let the glue dry. Cut out two arms per doll and attach the arms after the doll is dressed.

Thread a length of ribbon through the screw eye for hanging.

Cut 2 felt pieces using the template below.

Join the front and back together. Sew where the dotted line indicates first. When this is done, open the corners to form a whole and join the corner seams together and sew (as indicated on template).

Turn the gift bag inside out and decorate as you like. Cut a piece of coloured rope long enough to form a handle.

09. Clothes pin Doll Ornaments

Method:

Use the templates to cut the material into doll clothing. To attach clothing, first dab glue onto the doll, then wrap the clothing around the doll. Trim the excess. For Mrs. Claus’s bun, glue a portion of a cotton ball to the back of her head.

Glue on the ribbon for decoration or beads for buttons, if desired.

Method: Copy the below clothes pins ornaments template. Paint the clothes pins, paint the head flesh colour and paint the hair. Paint the body to coordinate with the clothing you’ll be adding (the templates don’t include pants patterns, so paint pants on). Paint shoes on the feet (unless

010. Tinsel Snowflakes Materials: • Red glass-shard glitter • Gold or silver glass-shard glitter • Craft glue • Mat board or smooth cardboard • Utility knife • Paintbrush • Silver thread

Method: Enlarge the below templates as desired (13 – 30 centimetres in diameter). Tape to a piece of heavy mat board or smooth cardboard; then place over a protective surface, such as a self-healing mat.

Using the utility knife, cut through the layers to create the snowflake shape. Remove the template. Using a medium

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CHRISTMAS

DECORATINGIDEAS

Continued

paintbrush, coat one side of the shape with the craft glue.

Sprinkle with fine glitter. Let glue dry; shake off the excess glitter.

Repeat, using glass-shard glitter. Repeat process on other side. Using silver thread, hang snowflakes from removable adhesive hooks.

012. Three-Dimensional Doily Ornaments Materials: • Disappearing ink marker • Laminated linen or other sturdy, non-fraying fabric • Ruler • Fabric shears • Scallop shears • Neutral-coloured thread • Needle • Pins • Twine

013. Candy Cane Ornaments Materials: • Green, Red and white pipe cleaners

Method: Just twist and shape!

Method: Print the above templates A & B out and onto card stock, then cut out. Using template A, trace 3 circles with a disappearing ink marker onto the laminated linen or other sturdy, non-fraying fabric. Cut out 2 circles with fabric shears. Cut out remaining circle with scallop shears (or use straight-edged ones).

011. Button Ornaments Materials: • Pipe cleaners • Different shaped buttons • Craft glue

Method: Bend a pipe cleaner in half and twist once at the top for a loop. Slide the buttons over the pipe cleaner ends, slipping one end into each hole (if the button has four holes, use two diagonal ones). Use the larger buttons for bellies and hat brims. When finished, twist the ends of the pipe cleaner to secure, and then trim. For reindeer legs and antlers and for Santa’s arms, bend 5-centimetre pieces of pipe cleaner in half, slip on between buttons, and twist.

Glue on felt for Santa’s beard and the snowman’s nose. To hang the reindeer, loop a thread around its middle and tie.

Lay template B atop 1 smooth-edged circle. With the disappearing ink marker, mark dots on the fabric where the lines on the template fall. Using a ruler and the disappearing ink marker, connect opposite dots to re-create the lines on the template.

Lay the lined circle atop the remaining smooth-edged circle; hand or machine-stitch along lines with the neutralcoloured thread.

014. Drum Box Ornaments Materials: • Set of round wooden boxes (we found them at Hobbyworld, Mosta) • Set of ribbons (some 0.5cm wide, others 1cm wide) • Glue

Method: Decide on a design and chose 1 or 2 ribbons. Glue in place – make sure not to add too many layers towards the top of the box or the lead won’t fit. Fix the strap either first or at the end, depending on the selected pattern.

Decorate the lead. Leave to dry.

At each sewn wedge, fold in the edge of the top layer; secure each fold with a pin inserted through both layers.

Lay the sewn circles atop the scallop-edged circle. Along the edge at the midpoint of each wedge, tack the middle layer to the bottom layer. Tie off and trim thread. Remove pins; unfold the top layer.

With the disappearing ink marker, mark a dot at each wedge’s midpoint along the edge. Slip a threaded needle under and up around 1 dot (through the top layer only).

Repeat at the next 5 dots in order (do not cut the thread).

Gently pull the ends of the thread, gathering the top layer into the centre. Knot the thread; trim. With twine, sew a loop to the bottom layer and knot to hang.

015. Advent Calendar Boxes Materials: • 24 mixed size wooden boxes (we found them at Hobbyworld, Mosta) • Acrylic paints • Number printouts, from 1-24 • Glue • Black paint • Acrylic water based varnish (gloss)

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CHRISTMAS

DECORATINGIDEAS

Continued

Method: Add a little water to the paint for the boxes so that the veins of the wood will show. Paint each box and leave to dry.

To add the numbers, either paint them directly on to the boxes, or you can print out numbers 1-24 using a “stencil” font, cut the numbers out and glue into place. Varnish and leave to dry.

017 & 020. Felt Stockings Materials: • Felt • Glue • Glitter glue • Embellishments, such as pompoms, sequins, etc.

• Matching sewing machine thread • Piece of gold rope

016. Advent Envelopes Materials: • Set of 24 white envelopes (you can mix sizes) • Acrylic gold paint • Paintbrushes • Hole puncher • Thick thread • Narrow ribbon to attach the envelopes • Tracing paper

Method: Reproduce one of the patterns from below on to an envelope, trying to keep the line fine so it will be easily covered by the paint. Make sure to remember to leave room for the number. With gold paint, first do all the inside and then finish with the outside line and leave to dry. Then paint the numbers and leave to dry. Punch a hole, insert the present or treat and close the envelope. Pass the thread/ribbon through the hole and display.

Method: Cut 2 pieces of felt for the stockings from the template.

Join the front and back together and machine stitch (use zigzag for a nice finish) the whole stocking. Once you have done this, fold the top part of the stocking where you can add a name or in this case, decorate. Cut a piece of gold rope and attach it in the corner of the stocking for hanging. Decorate the rest of the stocking as you like.

019. Crepe Paper Stockings Materials: • Pencil • Crepe paper • Sheer fabric, such as organza • Straight pins • Sewing machine threaded with complementary thread • Decorative scissors, such as scallop or pinking shears • Sweets • Stapler • Ribbon • Festive stickers

Method: Use the below template to trace stocking onto a piece of crepe paper. Place a sheet of sheer fabric on top of the crepe paper, and secure with a few straight pins.

Sew a straight stitch with a sewing machine along the template lines you have drawn to attach both pieces.

Leave the top of the dreidel or stocking open.

Being careful not to cut into the sewn line, cut around the shape with decorative scissors. Fill with sweets.

Fold over the top piece of dreidel or stocking to create a cuff. Use a small staple to close the dreidel or stocking and attach a ribbon loop for hanging. Embellish the top with a sticker to cover the staple.

018. Mug Stockings Materials: • Different block coloured mugs • Assortment of Christmassy ribbon (less than ½ metre each) • One long ribbon (approximately 1 metre) • Gold rope (approximately 1 metre) • Assortment of sweets

Method: Tie the small ribbons onto the handles of the mugs. Using the long ribbon, tie a knot for each mug without cutting, connecting each of the mugs. To hang from a mantelpiece, doorknob or staircase banister with the gold rope so that each mug hangs down at an angle. Fill the mugs with an assortment of sweets.

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A TO Z OF SUPPLIERS ACCESSORIES, CURTAINS & FURNISHINGS

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A TO Z OF SUPPLIERS APPLIANCES

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BATHROOMS

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A TO Z OF SUPPLIERS BATHROOMS, TILES & HARDWARE

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A TO Z OF SUPPLIERS DECORATIVE FINISHES DOORS

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A TO Z OF SUPPLIERS DOORS, WINDOWS & STAIRS FLOORING 088

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A TO Z OF SUPPLIERS HEATING HOME DECOR

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A TO Z OF SUPPLIERS HOME DECOR

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A TO Z OF SUPPLIERS HOME DECOR HOME DECOR

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A TO Z OF SUPPLIERS HOME SECURITY

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A TO Z OF SUPPLIERS LIGHTING

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A TO Z OF SUPPLIERS MOBILE FIREPLACES ROLLER BLINDS 094

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A TO Z OF SUPPLIERS SURFACE SOLUTIONS TILES

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A TO Z OF SUPPLIERS TIMBER TURNKEY 096

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KOMMA

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Please download our general catalogue from www.scavolini.com

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ISSUE 40

ISSUE 40 DECEMBER 09

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