Design - Elisa Grech, Simon Grech

Photography - Alex Attard

Writeup - Holly Knowles

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In a compact residence, a floating sculptural staircase creates a striking focal point from an architectural necessity. Complimenting restored historic features with minimalist design, the staircase hangs like a lantern from a double-height ceiling, connecting a ground floor living/kitchen/dining area and a first-floor reading nook and bedroom.

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Extending four metres up through the heart of the property, the custom staircase structure is anchored by a slimline perimeter frame. Its interior spiral form is fully wrapped in white steel mesh which allows light to travel throughout. Safely cocooning the user as they make their way up or down, its perforated volume filters daylight into the stairwell and through to the kitchen behind it. By night, it illuminates the ground floor areas with a softly diffused glow.

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To the rear of the property, a kitchen with Carrara marble counter-tops and open shelving spans the width of the back wall. To its left, a generously proportioned bathroom with original floor tiles and a soft grey colour palette is an exercise in simplicity.

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On the first floor, the staircase leads directly into an intimate reading space with contemporary furnishings and a view out through restored apertures. The bedroom, just off the landing, features warm birch flooring underfoot and simple white walls. A traditional Maltese gallarija extends the room out into the quiet streetscape and floods the room with light.