Architectural firm AP Valletta is one of the five shortlisted in the Best Adaptive Renovation and Reuse category in the 12th edition of the Architizer A+Awards for overall portfolios of work.
One of the largest online platforms worldwide, Architizer showcases best practices in contemporary design and architecture. It focuses on excellence in all typologies of projects and at all scales in an effort to nurture the appreciation of meaningful contributions to the built environment.
The judges selected AP Valletta for its contribution to the preservation and rehabilitation of Maltese built heritage, which has been creatively reimagined to improve the environmental, social and economic performances of buildings, while respecting their history.
“By increasing the longevity and efficiency of existing buildings, and reducing the need for demolition and new construction, AP are contributing to spearheading a sustainable approach to architecture, challenging the status quo with regards to the perception and preservation of local heritage,” the firm, an award-winning, research-based practice, said.
“By exploring the reuse of existing buildings, AP has initiated debates at both local and international level, engaging with several key stakeholders such as UNESCO experts, academic institutions and several private entities, always emphasising the importance of a balanced relationship between the different aspects of their innovative design approach.”
Each project intertwines ambitious conversions, sustainable adaptive reuse strategies and rigorous restoration, working on a vast range of scales, the firm said.
AP Valletta’s track record includes the regeneration of Dock n.1, the restoration and rehabilitation of the Phoenicia Hotel, Barrakka Lift, the extension of the St John’s Co-Cathedral Museum, the recently restored St Paul’s Anglican Pro Cathedral, the Manoel Theatre and its Priory of Navarre, as well as the international collaboration with Renzo Piano Building Workshop on Valletta’s City Gate, Opera House and Parliament.
“A significant reflection of our work practice is evident in our relationship with the city of Valletta,” AP said.
The other firms shortlisted for this award are McIntosh Poris Architects, Neri&Hu Design and Research Office, Atelier A and Ziger|Snead Architects.
The awards ceremony will be held on June 3 in New York, while public voting is open to everyone until May 10. AP can be supported by clicking here.
