Lighting and interior designer Olivia Ann Calleja has been honoured with the German Design Award 2026 in the “Excellent Architecture (Interior Architecture – Residential)” category for her private villa in central Malta. The award follows a rigorous, two‑stage international selection process that began with an application, professional images and background information, and culminated in extensive documentation of the entire design journey—from pre‑construction to completion—including architectural concepts, lighting strategies, drawings, plans and a personal video presentation explaining the project’s challenges and creative vision [1].
The villa is a semi‑detached, newly built home on a cleared site in central Malta. It features a basement entertainment level, ground‑floor living spaces that open onto a heated outdoor pool, and a first floor with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Interiors showcase Maltese craftsmanship with bespoke elements such as a hand‑crafted wooden staircase, French panelling, custom crystal chandeliers reflected in a mirrored dining ceiling, and a sculptural travertine marble bathroom carved from a single block. Materials like wood, marble, mirrored finishes and acoustic surfaces are layered to create a sophisticated, timeless atmosphere, anchored by a palette of midnight blue, dark grey, crystal tones and polished stone [1].
The recognition highlights Maltese design on a global platform, underscoring the value of local artisans and innovative interior architecture. Calleja’s achievement demonstrates how meticulous documentation and a clear design narrative can succeed in competitive international awards, setting a benchmark for future Maltese projects seeking worldwide exposure.
