The Din l-Art Ħelwa award for architectural heritage for 2011 is now open for entries.
The award has been designed to encourage better architecture by rewarding any building project which made an outstanding and significant contribution to architectural excellence in a Maltese context and that the project sends a clear message that old buildings can be successfully restored and converted to modern use while retaining their character and intrinsic value.
Eligible projects include the restoration or conservation of buildings, the adoption of buildings to new uses, building additions or alterations, or new building projects in conservation areas.
The projects can relate either to a single building, a complex of buildings, or historic urban environment or townscape. The project will be judged on the quality of the work executed, its historic, cultural, educational and social relevance, the preliminary research conducted and the aesthetic and visual merit.
The project may be on a scale ranging from small to large, and should display a standard of work which would be outstanding within a Maltese context.
The Din l-Art Ħelwa award for architectural heritage has now established itself as a worthy and prestigious annual event which brings well-merited recognition not only to the architects rewarded, but also to their parent firms and architectural profession more widely.
Din l-Art Ħelwa said in recent courses there had been a most encouraging increase in conservation and restoration of old build-ings and monuments in Malta – both in the private andpublic sector. The heritage organisation therefore feels that these greatly deserve encouragement and public recognition.
Submissions for the Din l-Art Ħelwa Architectural Heritage award scheme should be for projects completed in the last year up to August 31, and submissions must be received at the Din l-Art Ħelwa office, 133, Melita Street, Valletta by September 30.
More information from the Chamber of Architects, from Din l-Art Ħelwa offices. Tel: 2122 0358/2122 5952.