As a designer, I’m always chasing inspiration through experience – and this month, I’ve found it in abundance. I’m currently travelling through Malta, immersing myself in the architecture, history and distinctive interior spaces of this Mediterranean island. What stands out most about interior design in Malta is how seamlessly it blends practical climate solutions with centuries-old artistry.
From honey-hued limestone homes to marble-inlaid churches and intricately painted ceilings, Malta offers a masterclass in both preservation and innovation.
Golden Limestone: Malta’s Signature Stone
One cannot talk about interior design in Malta without mentioning its most iconic material – Globigerina limestone. This local stone defines the island’s colour palette, from the streets of Valletta to the rural farmhouses of Gozo. Soft, porous and warm in tone, it’s been the building material of choice for millennia.
The stone’s natural ability to insulate interiors against Malta’s hot summers and damp winters makes it both beautiful and practical. In many heritage homes, you’ll find exposed limestone walls paired with neutral-toned furnishings – a timeless combination that feels modern while respecting tradition.
Climate-Smart Materials and Local Design Choices
Malta’s Mediterranean climate influences every interior decision. Humidity, heat, and salty coastal air all affect the way materials perform. You won’t see much untreated timber here – it tends to swell and deteriorate in this environment. Instead, interiors favour:
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Marble floors and staircases, which stay cool underfoot
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Decorative cement tiles, offering colour and durability
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Wrought iron for balustrades and accents
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Thick stone walls and arched doorways, for natural insulation
These choices aren’t just aesthetic – they’re solutions to living comfortably in a climate that demands attention to airflow and temperature control.
Artistic Heritage: Baroque Meets Minimalism
What I’ve found most captivating is the contrast between ornate detailing and simplicity. In many interiors, especially in older palazzos, you’ll see:
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Baroque-style cornices and mouldings
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Hand-painted ceiling panels
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Intricate carved stonework
Yet these are often paired with restrained, modern furniture and muted colours – a quiet nod to contemporary Mediterranean design.
This layering of old and new reflects Malta’s rich history of cultural influences – from the Knights of St. John to North African and Italian craftsmanship.
What Interior Designers Can Learn From Malta
As the founder of Design by Artisan, I’m always drawn to design that balances form and function. Malta has reminded me that using local, climate-responsive materials is the key to timeless interiors. It’s also a lesson in celebrating history rather than covering it up.
Whether you’re working on a coastal home or a city apartment, taking cues from interior design in Malta means embracing authenticity, heritage and natural elegance.
Want to Bring a Mediterranean Look Into Your Home?
If you’re inspired by these materials and want help adapting Mediterranean design to your own project, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to chat about natural textures, timeless colour palettes and historical detail.
📞 Kylie Abbass – Senior Building & Interior Designer
✉️ enquiry@designbyartisan.com.au
🌐 Visit Design by Artisan
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👉 Explore our coastal interior design projects
Suggested Outbound Link:
👉 Learn more about Maltese limestone from Heritage Malta