Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has revealed designs for renovating the heritage Mercury Tower, located in Paceville, Malta, a major trade and tourism center at the midpoint of the Mediterranean.The old Mercury House dates back to 1903. ZHA will reinvigorate the 9,405 square meter site which is in a derelict condition and includes the remains of the old building’s facade along with two underground vaults created during the cold War.“Working with Malta’s leading conservation architect, these heritage structures will be renovated as integral parts of the new development; restoring the old Mercury House facades and reinstating its remaining historic interiors as gathering spaces and entrance for the apartments and hotel,” states ZHA. “Restoring the facades of the old Mercury House to their original height enables this heritage structure to be read as a whole. The new development lands behind these renovated facades, defining the original Mercury House as the focus of a new public piazza,” ZHA further adds.ZHA’s renovation design for the Mercury House features residential apartments and boutique hotel, and creating new public spaces and amenities for the island’s residents and visitors. According to ZHA, “With the refurbished Mercury House at its base, the 24,500 sq.m. renovation and redevelopment incorporates civic amenities including cafes and shops surrounding the large piazza together with a new cafe pavilion of soft curves and a transparency that accentuates the solidity of the old Mercury House. The 31-storey tower of residential apartments and hotel is aligned at street level to integrate with Paceville’s existing urban fabric and to reduce its footprint, maximizing civic space within the new piazza.”Paceville is a major tourist hub and is famous for its restaurants, bars, nightclubs, casinos, and marina. With water features and fountains for children to play, as well as seating areas to relax, the architects envision new piazza to be the centre of its community by day, and one of Malta’s primary gathering places by night to suit the island’s al fresco lifestyle. http://www.blouinartinfo.com/                       Founder: Louise Blouin  Read more