Located along a bustling part of Sliema’s promenade, Alma restaurant is hard to miss, differentiated by its slatted timber exterior that gives a sense of its fusion character, both for its cuisine as well as its interior style.
Under the hand of interior designer Carlo Schembri and designed by the team at Architecture&Bold, Alma was envisioned as a quiet retreat to a world that combines practical design with an exotic edge, executed in an unassuming fashion within the bounds of what the space had to offer
“Alma’s evolution is a modest marvel. Infrastructurally, we changed very little, channeling our energy into transforming the atmosphere of the space,” the team explains.
“What was once an unremarkable space has gently transformed, with every detail weighed to craft a welcoming atmosphere. Existing finishes such as brick walls and wood cladding were treated to render the space unrecognisable from its previous counterpart.”
Alma’s design was intended to be more than a mere dining spot. “It’s a refuge for relaxation. We’ve fashioned a space for genuine unwinding. Within Alma’s unpretentious ambience, a bar invites guests to enjoy the moment in an atmosphere of elegance and tranquillity. The right lighting was crucial to create a lively ambience that can change throughout the night.”
Revolving around an earthy albeit moody palette, Alma’s different areas are designated through the use of copper arches that divide internal spaces, guiding the flow of movement inside the restaurant, while adding warmth and sophistication.
A nature-inspired wallpaper decorates the space opposite the bar as well as the restaurant’s central section, which, alongside leafy hanging foliage, heightens the tropical aesthetic.
Copper, timber and warm tones add an inviting layer to this space, while various textures are introduced through soft furnishings and decor, including velvet-upholstered benches, rattan-backed chairs, fringed chandeliers and metal details in gold and bronze tones.
“What sets Alma apart is its creation within time and budget constraints. We aimed to craft something unique without breaking the bank, and we’re humbled to say we’ve achieved just that. Alma stands as a testament to our simple creativity and dedication to offering guests a genuinely pleasant experience.”
Photography: Gianluca Schembri
