TOWNHOUSE NO 60

Originally a farmhouse tucked away in an urban conservation area of Gharghur, this property has undergone at least three significant extensions since its inception. The ground floor is built on the original foundation of the house, featuring masonry arches, thick walls, ‘xorok’ and timber beams, as well as a stone staircase and a charming arched cellar. The first floor is a relatively recent addition that maintains similar architectural characteristics. The most recent extensions stretch from the first floor up to the roof, designed to meet contemporary building requirements.

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At the heart of the house is a double-height space that was once the central courtyard. This area is now topped with a large skylight measuring 6.5 x 3 meters, which allows natural light to flood the floor below and the adjoining rooms. This central space will serve as the kitchen and dining area on the ground floor.

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The design blends contemporary style with the home's original character, creating a warm and inviting family atmosphere. It emphasises existing features, while the new design elements are subtle and contrasted against the original materials. The guest toilet area is designed to seamlessly fit into the space without extending to the ceiling, ensuring that it does not disrupt the architectural integrity. Proposed materials include natural elements such as cross-cut travertine flooring and wood, while walls will remain exposed in areas where the stone is particularly attractive and worth preserving.

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One of the more challenging aspects of the project was designing the services to create an efficient and functional home. This was particularly complex given the need to keep the fabric of the old building exposed, including the stone walls, while also addressing varying floor levels. The existing bell-shaped well has been cleaned and restored to collect second-class water for use throughout the house. Additionally, the ventilation system has been thoughtfully designed to incorporate both mechanical and passive ventilation solutions.