The project explores the potential of the site on which the Dragonara Casino lies whilst also proposing new uses that could be introduced to complement the current facilities. Built in the 1870’s, the Palace was originally approached through a long avenue starting at the stone archway which still stands today and cutting through formal gardens up till the semi-circular forecourt located in front of the Palace. The property was leased by the Scicluna family to the Kursaal Company Limited, which converted the property in Malta’s first casino, the Dragonara Casino, in 1964. The architectural articulation of the exterior became iconic with the growing leisure industry and with the regeneration of St Julian’s area as the prime hub for the business. This proposal focuses on 4 main strategic principles and conceptual parameters: to reinstate the architectural prominence of the Dragonara Palace by preserving and restoring the building as an architectural landmark and icon that is synonymous with the brand; to redesign the approach to the Dragonara Palace as an experience through a landscaped route and the recreation of a forecourt at the entrance of the Palace; to reinstate the aspect and proportions of the Dragonara Palace by reinstating the open central courtyard of the Palace and repairing its connections to the surrounding grounds and the sea; and to create a new business concept by injecting new and varied revenue streams through the introduction of new uses into the site. A new proposed underground volume at two ends of the Palace’s main axis provides an extension to the casino with internal links to the Palace through the restored central Palace courtyard. A pool lido and spa are located at the tip of the promontory. Tourism accommodation is sunken into the periphery of the Palace with each of the guestrooms having access to courtyards and set behind the Palace boundary wall which provides focused yet sheltered sea views for the rooms through strategic incisions made in the wall. A restaurant set within the upper volume of the Palace makes use of the scenic rooftop of the Palace. The masterplan proposal echoes the austere and classical architectural language of the Palace while projecting it into a contemporary yet timeless dimension allowing the Palace to rise above the promontory, reinstating it to its former glory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is A 19th Century Summer Residence Transformation located?+
A 19th Century Summer Residence Transformation is located in St Julian's, Malta. Its coordinates are 35.9199°, 14.4877°.
Can I visit A 19th Century Summer Residence Transformation?+
A 19th Century Summer Residence Transformation is a real building in St Julian's that can be viewed from the outside. Check local information for interior access and visiting hours. Use the Parametric Atlas walking tour feature to plan a route that includes this building.