In recent years, the iconic, Art Deco-style Phoenicia Malta hotel has undergone a dramatic transformation. From its marvellous Palm Court and outdoor pool deck to its restaurants, rooms and suites, sensitive interventions brought the hotel into its modern era, without compromising on its timeless charm that locals and visitors the world over have come to love.
Notable among its various alterations completed in 2020 is the addition of a new wing that houses the spa, designed by AP Valletta, the concept behind which is rooted in the memory of ancient Roman baths and their ample benefits on the body, mind and spirit.
“Designed to be a meditative and soothing space, the volume of the spa is developed around the 16th century fortifications, recalling the atmosphere and the setting of thermal baths,” the architecture studio shares.
“The fortifications, as well as the surrounding bastions, are always visible: from the suspended treatment rooms and fitness area, as well as from the pool and lounge area. Planned to allow further use of the old colonial stables within the historic ditch, the circulation guides the visitor along a spring of water which leads to the relaxing pool area – the arrival of the thermal journey.”
The new wing’s architectural language is a re-interpretation of the Art Deco style of the main building, resulting in a repetition of patterns and a distinct linearity, subtly emphasising the contemporary nature of the intervention.
“Structurally, the complex takes on some inconceivable challenges as the presence of large historic ruins were discovered during construction,” the studio explains.
“The design considerations were combined with sustainability principles, of which the most tangible outcome is the installation of a green roof on the extension, providing the structure with an alternative cooling system and therefore making it energy efficient.”
Inside, natural tones and raw textures accentuate the calming effect of the spa’s overall design. Neutral and pastel colours amplify its materiality, creating a homogenous sculptural effect that enhances its evolution from a fortified pre-existent base to a space with a timeless aesthetic.
“The reintroduction of the hotel’s historic and exposed turrets led to the articulation of a new and unique aesthetic language for the spa, in dialectic exchange between old and new.”
Photography: Julian Vassallo
