Rough and raw textures were the inspiration behind one of the latest local residential projects at Brands International. The end result – an industrial look within a casual, highly functional and practical space which is ideal for entertaining, but which also enjoys unconventional design and furniture elements.

The overall look and feel

An industrial look with a focus on rough, raw textures. The concrete ceiling was left exposed and the dark walls are juxtaposed against the clean lines of the crisp white central unit in the living area. This becomes the main focal point, also because it cleverly serves as a media unit on one side, housing the large TV screen in the main entertainment area, and a storage/utility area on the other side.

Inspirationand key pieces – the idea for the industrial look stemmed from the rough texture of the concrete ceiling and the homeowner wanting to achieve a casual, highly functional and practical space which is ideal for entertaining, but which also enjoys unconventional design and furniture elements. Achieving a well thought-out, coordinated look remained top priority and all key pieces and spaces reflect the same feeling throughout, whilst serving the different functions in each of the rooms.

The kitchen enjoys a simple layout, inspired by a casual bar look, with the back-lit glass shelving cantilevered between the back panelling, and the industrial-grade extractor hood being the main focal points. The suspended column over the peninsula houses the appliances, whilst a concealed unit serves as extra storage space accessible from the front of the kitchen. A textured laminate was used for the cabinetry, whilst the top and backsplash, in metal-look laminate brings in a cool element and completes the casual industrial look.

The flooring used throughout is another key statement in this property and ties in with the whole look. The “upcycling” trend is reflected here, through the use of the eye-catching vinyl flooring used, which design was also purposely chosen to mirror the timber texture of the concrete in the ceiling. The same flooring was extended to the spare bedroom and also clads the walls vertically in this room, creating a sense of continuity and opening up the space further. The monochrome colour scheme in this room – whilst retaining a manly feel- is accented by touches of yellow and petrol blue in the soft furnishings, keeping things current and on-trend. Space was maximised through functional pieces of furniture, such as a freestanding mirror which doubles as a shoe/storage cabinet and the wire stool which doubles as a nightstand.

The use of timber, and particularly hardwood decking on the outdoor terrace was an obvious choice for the homeowner, who specifically wanted to create a warm, inviting feel outdoors, as a direct extension of the entertainment area in the living room. Moreover, the flexibility of hardwood makes it easy to have a continuous flow between the floor and the walls. The elegant dining table and chairs, in their solid eucalyptus legs and contrasting white top, exude an air of sophistication without being overly done.

The sofa is another important key piece that distinguishes the overall character of this property. The modularity of the cubic-shaped sofa allowed for specific customisation of modules, including a back-less module and a chaise longue, as well as mixing and matching different fabrics and leathers on the different modules, highlighting and reflecting certain tones in the floor. Put together, they create an unexpected, individual look which stands out, yet is perfectly harmonised.

Parador vinyl flooring & cladding, IPE decking, Aster Cucine kitchen, BoConcept indoor and outdoor furniture, BoConcept rugs, pendant lamps and accessories – all available from Brands International.

Architecture & Interior Design – MJMDA [Matthew James Mercieca Design Architects]

Photography – Peter M. Mercieca

Styling – BoConcept Malta