A hub of life in the capital

In his article titled Cut-And-Paste Architecture (June 10), Conrad Thake seems to project the inverse of what the design for St George's Square in Valletta is all about.

One point raised by Mr Thake is to recreate the square as it was in the past. A good question would be as to which period should be chosen. The square has undergone a multitude of transformations throughout the centuries. It started off as a proper square in front of a palace when Valletta was designed by Lapparelli and, later, the Main Guard was added on. The road was later defined as a continuation of Republic Street by means of a pavement.

It's not possible to stick to one period, and after thorough studies, a design that identifies the fundamental principles of the city as it was envisaged, was selected. Contrary to what was stated in the article, the research took into consideration the evolution of the square and its gradual additions through time. This research included various images from books and archives to understand the various chronological changes.

The concept that the space outside the palace was conceived as one whole square, was one of the fundamental issues and it was respected, as this was actually one of the foundation principles of this city. However, other considerations included the addition of a fountain as a main attraction and its removal to a space that appertains and holds events. The proposal kept in mind all the present and past uses and the proposal aims to achieve all these.

It is understandable that designs may be subjective, but the article not only attempted to criticise this aspect but also intends to discredit all the research undertaken by the Works Division and the Valletta Rehabilitation Project.

To properly understand the project one needs to truly delve into all the problematic constraints one is working with. The design includes a simple geometric pattern with subtle changes in colour and materials. There is no shallow pool as Mr Thake implied but a flat surface with jets of water. Once these jets are turned off, then the square is flat and can be used as a parade ground or space for any other national event.

The value of the square as being historically the place that hosted a number of important military and national ceremonies must be given its merited value. Since this tradition needs to be respected, the reconstruction of a possible replica fountain (apart from having a number of ethical implications) was not seen as an option.

In addition, jets of water in the centre of the fountain surely do not compete with the De Rohan fountain. Had there been any other free-standing fountain, then that probability would be much greater. Moreover, with proper maintenance, the issue of cleaning does not hold.

The zig-zagging wooden bench is a must to delineate between the lava-paved Old Theatre Street and the actual square. The bench is practical and much needed; it includes potted citrus trees that will provide some shade, colour and scent and it will incorporate a drinking water "fountain" and will be decoratively lit to stand out at night. The aspect of floor lighting will make the installation a softer one at night than it is during the day.

The tree-like luminaires are a modern concept to incorporate that contemporary touch to such an elegant square. We must also keep in mind that lights are "modern" elements and the project team decided on modern luminaires that reflect the technology and inspiration of today.

The benches abutting the palace façade were definitely not a good solution (as Mr Thake is suggesting) and this accretion was later removed.

The importance of seating was given its due weighting, however, the location and design were significant aspects that were taken into consideration.

Moreover, the street furniture, including the luminaires, are a reserved matter in the Mepa permit condition and we still have to submit all the details for Mepa to approve the furniture being proposed. Had proper research or find-outs been carried out one would have realised this.

Also, the project was discussed at Valletta Rehabilitation Committee level and such issues could have been brought about at this level, considering that Mr Thake is a member of said committee.

What is being created here is a square that is the heart of the city. The square alone would be lifeless without people. The water jets and street furniture are necessary elements to achieve this. It needs the interaction of people for it to become a hub of life. WiFi, seating spaces and water will all contribute to attracting people to the square. We need to cater for all activities undertaken nowadays and the design reflects the fabric of what we have today but avoids being obtrusive in order for the palace to take centre stage.

Let us not forget this is the end of the journey that will lead people through a new City Gate, up to an upgraded Castille Square, through an embellished Merchants Street, into the magnificent Co-Cathedral and right into St George's Square to admire the fine Presidential palace, which is being restored at the moment. This is only a fraction of what the government has in store in its vision for a greater Valletta.

The author is executive coordinator of the Valletta Rehabilitation Committee.