The changing townscapes and streetscapes of the Maltese islands

Abstract

The Townscape Movement focuses on using the visual perception of an environment as an urban design philosophy. Townscapes should create a pleasant and welcoming environment that evokes an emotional response in its users. The urban realm should be composed of stimulating, memorable spaces. Within an urban environment these are streets and squares, streetscapes make-up the vertical dimension of these spaces throughout urban settlements. Locally new development should contribute to the streetscape and form part of the resultant townscape. Modern architecture must satisfy functional requirements for its user as well as be respectful of its surrounding environment. The design of and new addition should be influenced by the existing local context. In the Maltese Islands a harsh contrast exists between areas protected by Urban Conservation Area policies and adjacent newer development area subject to standard regulations. The resultant streetscape is disjointed, creating visual conflicts between older vernacular architecture and modern additions to the space.