Casa Gourgion

Over the years, the property had numerous tenants, who carried out additions and alterations to the building fabric, until finally the current owners took back possession of the house in 2020. A comprehensive restoration project was to follow, that has successfully preserved and enhanced the architectural heritage of Casa Gourgion while adapting it for public use as a house museum. The primary objective was to return the property to the original state and to revitalize Casa Gourgion as a sustainable and accessible cultural asset that respects its original character and its landmark status.

The project confronted severe structural deterioration from neglect, complex logistics in Mdina's busy historical square, and strict heritage regulatory constraints. The strategy was a multi-disciplinary approach (architects, engineers, historians) focused on: Research: Thorough structural and historical assessment. Conservation: Painstaking repair/restoration of historic features (frescoes, stonework) using traditional methods. Reinforcement: Enhancing structural integrity via concealed modern systems. Efficiency: Discreetly integrating modern HVAC, insulation, and intelligent LED lighting. Interior: Faithfully reflecting the opulent 19th-century nobleman’s home aesthetic. Challenge: ingeniously concealing modern technology (AC, outlets) to ensure comfort and functionality without compromising historical character. This strategy transformed the neglected structure into an authentic, functional space, respecting its profound historical context and regulatory environment.

Construction used load bearing Globigerina Limestone and lime-based mortars, timber for apertures. The core challenge was remaining historically authentic whilst ingeniously integrating services to control temperature and humidity while preserving 19th-century authenticity. The solution: a multi-zone Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) system. This highly efficient HVAC provides precise environmental control vital for visitor comfort and the conservation of historical elements (frescoes, timber). Indoor units are meticulously hidden above false ceilings or recessed into unused wall sections. Only minimal gaps were left for the supply and return air, preserving the opulent interiors. The limestone's thermal mass significantly reduces the energy load, lowering operating cost and environmental impact. Maintenance requires biannual professional servicing of the concealed VRF units to ensure crucial humidity control, and periodic inspection of the limestone façade and timber apertures.