Caroline Ciantar-Barbara

Tarxien House of Character

An Eclectic Refresh: Layering Retro Warmth into a Character Home

Vintage Heart, Contemporary Spirit

My client wanted a home that married the nostalgic charm of a traditional Maltese house with bold, modern energy. This house of character in the heart of Tarxien provided the a blank canvas, however the rooms were compact and irregularly shaped, calling for a design that was both strategic and soulful.

 

From the start, you can feel the kitchen would be a standout moment. The client had one non-negotiable: a cream-coloured Smeg fridge. That little detail informed a design narrative that flowed through the whole home—playful yet grounded, vintage yet streamlined. We balanced traditional limestone walls and handmade cement tiles with contemporary walnut cabinetry, sage green accents, and graphic light fittings that tie the space together.

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The layout was reimagined to maximise every inch. Floor patterns—chequered red and white in the kitchen, warm neutrals in the living space—weren’t just decorative. They helped trick the eye, guiding movement and softening the room’s quirks. A custom-designed yard door, inset with angular timber detailing, brings in natural light and adds a crafted layer to the dining space.

 

We leaned into the idea of retro-inspired comfort. The palette throughout is rich and inviting: deep teals, rust, ochre, and pops of magenta layered against natural textures. There’s a cocooning quality to the living area, with its multi-use cabinetry and vintage-leaning furnishings. It’s a space that flexes between evening downtime and casual work-from-home days.

 

The bedroom and bathroom continue the narrative. Moody green walls and textural wood details anchor the sleeping space, while the bathroom feels light and playful with blush-toned tiles and organic forms—equal parts whimsy and wellness.

 

This home isn’t trying too hard. It’s confident in its mix—honouring heritage while letting in a little fun. A quiet celebration of colour, texture, and Maltese domesticity with a contemporary twist.

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