Barbajean sits at the heart of Dingli, a Maltese village with views over the Mediterranean Sea.

The design is heritage-driven, drawing on vernacular precedents that focus on colour, materials and functionality. It takes cues from local faċċati or façades, coloured timber doors; glass antiporti; parapet steps; and mid-century terrazzo architraves. Barbajean is shaped throughout as a customised design statement. From light fixtures to signage to furniture, Mizzi Studio crafted a contemporary restaurant vocabulary recalling the elegance of European Art-Deco bistros yet rooted in its Maltese home. Barbajean is a beacon for Dingli – showcasing the power of design to embolden

This project has been longlisted in the restaurant and bar interior category of Dezeen Awards 2021.

Architect: Mizzi Studio
Project: Barbajean