The Lodge in Ta’ Xbiex

In the early 1960s it was at times very difficult for architects practising in Malta who were interested in exploring the architectural concept known as Modernism. Malta was still very much dominated by the perception of architectural traditions of yesteryear.

However, a young group of architects were keen to explore this new form of design, and although most of the completed projects of this time were more subdued or toned down than the original concepts, there was an effort by these architects to take Malta in to the next era of architectural expression.

There were cases, however, where an architect was given a relatively large amount of freedom to produce a truly modern piece of architecture. This is evident in The Lodge, a private residence designed by a young Joseph Spiteri around 1961.

The exterior is typical of international style modernism with the expulsion of all forms of applied ornament on the façade and enhanced rather through the entire building which is balanced yet without a preconceived notion of symmetry.

Large internal open spaces dominate the interior creating a pleasant flow of continuity as well as inviting natural light. It is one of the more successful examples of modern architecture in Malta.

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority scheduled The Lodge as a Grade 2 building on May 8, 2012.