Team
Lead Perit/i: Chris Briffa Architects
Architectural Design: Chris Briffa Architects
Planning Consulting: Chris Briffa Architects
Structural Engineering: Cuschieri Architects
Art Restoration & Conservation: Prevarti
Interior Design: Chris Briffa Architects
Building Systems Engineering: Camilleri & Cuschieri
Project Management: James Spiteri Tanti
Teatru Salesjan’s refurbishment project (completed in 2024) strived to achieve a balance preserving historical integrity while meeting contemporary demands, making it a candidate for the Adaptive Renovation Award.
By carefully respecting the building’s original architecture – restoring significant features such as the ornate detailing, the Giuseppe Calí fresco, stage layout, and distinctive spatial configuration – the project highlights the theatre’s storied legacy.
At the same time, it thoughtfully integrates modern interventions to ensure continued relevance and functionality, including enhanced lighting, improved acoustics, HVAC, and upgraded safety measures: each installed with the intention of being totally reversible.
This sensitive blend of old and new not only safeguards the cultural and historical character of Teatru Salesjan but also revitalises it as a vibrant community hub for the performing arts. The meticulous approach to restoration and adaptive reuse – emphasizing authenticity, sustainability, and durability – demonstrates that historic buildings can evolve with the times while retaining their heritage value.
Images © Chris Briffa Architect, Hanna Briffa
