New Plans Submitted For Demolition Of Iconic Palazzo Vincenti In St Julian’s
New plans have been submitted for the demolition of an iconic modernist villa in St Julian’s, known as Palazzo Vincenti.
The landmark piece of Maltese modernist architecture, dating back to the 1940s and has been facing threats since 2021, is to be replaced by a 14-storey hotel in 2021.
Following the widespread backlash towards the previous plans, the villa was granted an Emergency Conservation Order (ECO) for its immediate protection in December 2021. However, this is only valid for one year.
The proposed development of a 136-room hotel is being designed by well-known architect Robert Musumeci, for developer Carlo Stivala.
New plans now show slight changes to the original plans, however, the final development’s height will still amount to 14-storeys, with three storeys underground.
Newly submitted plans
The proposed development would also include offices, restaurants at the ground floor level, a gym, a fitness studio and spa, a theatre, and a games room.
St Julian’s mayor Albert Buttigieg reiterated his position on the development earlier today, stating that the council is still wholeheartedly against the proposed demolition and plans.
“Is the Planning Authority with the same opinion or will it change its position, now that elections have passed? Will the PA walk the talk and put its money where one’s mouth is? As much as others do not give up, so do we!” Buttigieg stated.
Villa Vincenti used to be the main family residence of architect Gustavo Romeo Vincenti, who also designed the building.
The property which served as his residence up until his death in 1974, is one of the best modernist examples on the island, whereby Vincenti’s mastery of play with the circle and square geometric shapes is taken to an unprecedented dimension with protruding forms and sculpted spaces.
What do you make of the new plans?
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