Zahrija House is a charming part of Sliema traditional houses but with an elegant modern twist that feature the house. The muted gray facade, the grandiose traditional Maltese door adorned with the iconic, fish-shaped knockers found in traditional Maltese abodes – all indicate the quiet elegance waiting to greet you inside. The entrance hall is adorned with unique Maltese tile flooring, with furniture in gray and soft monochrome, featuring quaint little characteristics such as door knobs in the form of sea-snails. As soon as you step inside, you realise that Zahrija House is one of a kind, a quirky rebel amid a sea of conformity. The entrance hall leads you into the first bedroom, a triple room with an adjoining ensuite bathroom, as well as a charming balcony overlooking the courtyard downstairs.

Up on the second floor, reachable by a flight of stairs, one finds a further two bedrooms – a double bedroom embellished with blue undertones, featuring a wooden Maltese balcony equipped with table and chairs, creating an intimate space where one can enjoy a morning beverage. An exquisite ensuite bathroom is also connected to this room, for added comfort and privacy. Along the other side of the hallway one finds another double bedroom, this time beautifully adorned with light blue and creamy tones. Subtle hints of artistic design shine through; from the peculiar cactus-shaped knobs enhancing the drawers, to the artful combination of unexpected colours. An ensuite bathroom with bath-tub can be found adjoining this room, as well as another open-air balcony, mimicking the one below, overlooking the courtyard. Up on the third and final level, one finds the grand master bedroom, an impressive room encompassed by a large, low, double bed. This bedroom is also equipped with its own ensuite bathroom, as well as the ubiquitous balcony which adds to the overall charm of the room. All the bedrooms are equipped with AC, ideal for the notorious Maltese summer.

On the third floor, on the other side of the hallway from the master bedroom, one finds a spacious roof-terrace, complete with hot tub and sun beds, perfect for the sweltering Maltese summers. Above the hot tub one finds a breezy canopy, gracefully deflecting the sun's rays through its criss-crossing fabric.

The kitchen/living are located on the lower floor. Bold colours punctuate this space – from the blunt gray walls of the open plan living, dining and kitchen, to the striking strokes of mustard of the armchair and cushions, to the bold and beautiful blue kitchen. Air-conditioned for added comfort, this space is inundated in natural light coming from the courtyard. The inviting six seater sofa sits in front of a flat-screen cable TV. The dining area is stately and smart, seating up to eight persons comfortably. A family bathroom is also found on this level, for additional comfort. The blue hued kitchen is fully equipped with dishwasher and all the other appliances required for preparing scrumptious home cooked meals. Subtle hints give away the truly innovative soul of this house – a mustard-coloured plaque tying the kitchen area in with the living area, a futuristic looking floor lamp – these are all quiet expressions of individuality which shine through in this home. The courtyard enjoys copious amounts of sunlight everyday, and is ideal for enjoying meals al fresco. An artistic mural depicting traditional Maltese tiles further embellishes the already beautiful area. A washing machine can be found in a laundry cupboard in the courtyard.

Zahrija House is an ideal home away from home for anyone who appreciates elegance, art and contemporary design. It marries the past and the present beautifully into a unique abode. While best suited for young couples, or families with older children, this house would make a wonderful home to anyone who truly appreciates its historic and aesthetic value.