Situated between West Street and Old Theatre Street, the property is adorned with five Maltese balconies and enjoys views of the Anglican Cathedral, Carmelite Church dome, the Marsamxett harbour and Valletta rooftops. The envisaged intervention aspires to contrast with its context without overpowering the character of the existing fabric. This office conversion seeks to enhance the architectural and historical value of the property whilst creating a contemporary installation which in turn accommodates the technical infrastructure of a modern office. This fast growing, internationally acclaimed, translation company is seeking to expand its services and work force whilst creating an inspiring base for its staff.
The brief was to provide a space which moves away from the typical hierarchal structure of an office and provides a flexible, interactive environment. This was achieved by combining the two front rooms so as to create a large open plan area able to accommodate all of the administrative and technical staff. To allow for enhanced flexibility, comfort and increased motivation a series of alternative working environments were created throughout encouraging the employees to move around and not necessarily work from their desks.
So as not to detract from the architectural value and character of the space, a clean and minimal approach was adopted. As a result, it was a priority to ensure that all the services required by an office of this scale were concealed, including AC grilles, access panels and the like.
The material palette is composed of geometric patterned tiles, a composition of triangular marble slabs, timber slats and upholstered acoustic panels. A contemporary interpretation of classical motifs is integrated on suspended ceilings and joinery wall panelling. Wire meshes have been integrated throughout and may be used to pin up notes or images, hang jackets and plants thereby encouraging the staff to personalise their environment whilst serving as a green spine.
