Architects And Designers Weigh In During designMT’s Spatial Design Debate: Is Malta’s Built Identity Evolving Or Fading?
What does Malta’s built environment say about its evolving identity? That’s the question leading architects and designers tackled during an eye-opening debate yesterday as part of the Spatial Design: Defining Malta’s Built Identity event.
Moderated by architect Joeaby Vassallo, an architect from I+A Limited, the discussion explored whether Malta’s public and private spaces are truly capturing its changing identity while reflecting modern values and preserving its rich heritage.
Konrad Buhagiar from AP Valletta kicked things off by urging the audience to rethink the division between past and present when it comes to buildings. He stressed that throughout history, buildings have always evolved – so why stop now? His point? What we design today will impact future generations, so flexibility is key.
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Meanwhile, Lisa Gwen raised the issue of Malta’s village cores being sharply contrasted by the grey, towering apartment blocks popping up everywhere else. She said this stark difference is causing many to feel a deep sense of nostalgia, yearning for a time when everything felt more cohesive. “Every area deserves good design,” she insisted, “not just village centres.”
The debate quickly turned to heritage, with the panel agreeing that there’s a lack of strategy to preserve it – especially as Malta grapples with overpopulation and rapid development. Andre Pizzuto, President of Kamra tal-Periti, called out the flawed planning process, saying it often turns into a battle between applicants and objectors, with no real focus on good design. He suggested a fresh approach where local councils and NGOs are consulted before applications are even submitted.
Pizzuto also argued for a long-term vision, pointing out that the current process is too focused on short-term political gains, rather than making decisions that will benefit Malta in 20 years.
As the debate flowed, the discussion turned to reclaiming public spaces, encouraging people to use them more, and making our streets more walkable and bike-friendly.
One standout moment came when Pizzuto highlighted the Msida Park Project, which Kamra tal-Periti proposed to tackle issues like connectivity, pollution, and noise without disrupting the current use of spaces in Msida. The project was seen as a bold move to challenge the authorities’ mindset on public spaces.
Wrapping up the night, Pizzuto dropped a bombshell: “What’s happening right now isn’t architecture – it’s just construction.” He lamented the lack of detail in Malta’s current building boom, adding that apartment blocks have no place in preserving village identities.
The debate left a lot to think about – but one thing was clear: Malta’s built environment is at a crossroads. The question is, will we shape a future that reflects our values and heritage?
What do you think? Are Malta’s public spaces missing the mark?
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