The study of spaces and character between buildings is of utmost importance, in particular when a site is located within an urban conservation area where the existing urban fabric is a result of past architectural evolution spanning up to hundreds of years. A compatible solution should address the available space achieving sustainable development requirements through modern layout planning. Most of all, the character of architecture depends heavily on the relationship of a building to the street and open space.

Planning, architecture and civil engineering have evolved tremendously these last years. Planning to achieve optimal use of land is the challenge architects and civil engineers are facing, such as the reconstruction of the old and decaying parts in the hearts of towns and villages, themselves deeply rooted in history, and which therefore form part of the national heritage.

Updated Legislation and Planning Policies are a catalyst for an evolution of architectural expressions. The progress within economy directly effects the building industry, therefore creating new challenges. The continuous research in civil engineering techniques and products together with continuous innovations of architectural quality demands an architect to update himself in a field which is not only limited to his working space or country.

Computers nowadays are an indispensable tool. Drawing boards reflect the past. Nevertheless, not withstanding the above mentioned changes, the basic principles of architecture and proportion remain the same as those used by architects centuries ago.

Designing the future together

Five years of architecture and civil engineering into the New century reflects some of the challenges of a new era. The projects tackled cover a range of works subdivided over ten different sections. Some may be considered as being courageous and innovative, others as controversial. What is for certain is that the new century is creating challenges never encountered before. The continuous upgrading of social life implies a corresponding improvement within the built environment where we live. The increasing leisure and foreign experience achieved through travel request for a popular improvement over the quality of buildings and public spaces. Nevertheless the sustainability of public and private buildings are necessary to ensure a socio-economic, cultural and environmental development.

The new century, in the new millennium, has so far provided exciting opportunities each with its particular constraints and challenges. The first five years of accelerations of urban growth, regeneration and demand for improvement in the quality of life confirm that the new century has already opened its window for the future, which we design together today.

Mannie Galea B.E. & A.(Hons.), A. & C.E.