A biomorphic pavilion inspired by Malta's Mosta Rotunda

Taking centre stage in its Mediterranean garden in Mosta, Pool Bloom by Mizzi Studio is a statement piece that combines innovative, biophilic design with local craftsmanship and cultural belonging.

There is something otherworldly about the brass dome rising out of the turquoise blue water, its radiant surface reflecting the sun and surrounding limestone of the garden walls. And yet, the dome itself is unmistakably reminiscent of its monumental neighbour, the Mosta Rotunda. The dome that inspired this piece is an imposing and familiar marker of place and history. Pool Bloom’s canopy draws from the dome, while the patterned underside carries a softer imprint, informed by Fibonacci geometry and the relief language found within the church itself. The pavilion builds on the presence of the dome by bringing in the elements of atmosphere, water and light.

In this sense, Pool Bloom is a living representation of the spirit of Mizzi Studio’s work and approach: deeply rooted in the local context and heritage, while bringing innovation through a biomorphic language inspired by nature. Pool Bloom’s mushroom and tree-like form, organic curves, and Fibonacci geometry create an architecture that feels at once futuristic and ancient. The result feels timeless, resisting easy association with any particular era or place, while still anchoring a sense of belonging exactly where it is: in Mosta, Malta.

Tasked with creating a unique focal point for the client’s garden, Mizzi Studio embarked on an experimental, collaborative process with local manufacturers Silvercraft, who were eager to expand beyond their usual output and use cutting-edge technology to create something rooted in decorative craft. After an iterative process of 3D design, taking buildable constraints into consideration, the structure was milled out in high density foam with 5-axis CNC (Computer Numerical Control). Silvercraft then created a mould for the GRP shell, which was then cast and finished to achieve the patinated brass effect.

The refinement of the dome’s edge marked a particularly intricate phase of the design process, in order to direct the water stream, giving the desired ‘umbrella effect’ as the structure would come to life. This also required careful consideration of the wind, a defining element in Malta’s natural environment.

Fabricating locally in Malta was an intentional choice by Mizzi Studio, reflecting the belief that the fusion of heritage craft and innovative use of technology can come together to deepen our sense of place. That same belief guides the studio’s wider work on the island. This includestheir sensitive rehabilitation of Comino’s Blue Lagoon, where environmental sensitivity, cultural heritage and local craftsmanship are prioritised through a contemporary design lens.

While Pool Bloom clearly evokes luxury design, its nature-inspired language and experiential intent give it immediate warmth and accessibility. The central bar invites guests into the pavilion for a drink or a moment of shade. At the canopy’s rim, water gathers before unfolding into a curtain around the structure, wrapping almost fully around it and opening only where people enter.

This veil of water gives the pavilion its threshold: a cooling edge between garden and pool, a sound that settles into the background of the day.

By day, Pool Bloom sits in close conversation with the garden. Beneath the canopy, light scatters into caustics across the textured underside, bringing the patterned surface to life.

At night, the pavilion’s presence evolves. The patinated canopy takes on the warmth of the evening light while reflections gather on the pool beneath the waterline. When the bells of Mosta Dome sound, they fold into the experience, giving the village a gentle pulse beyond the water. Pool Bloom becomes a place for conversation and pause, but also for cultural reflection: a contemporary structure held within the memory of older forms, local craft, and familiar rituals of shade, gathering, and summer evening life.

Pool Bloom is part of a growing body of work through which Mizzi Studio, as an international multidisciplinary design practice, explores how spaces can be intentionally redesigned while preserving their memory and cultural relevance that makes them meaningful. Rooted in culture, craft, climate and community, the studio’s work seeks to create places that nourish the spirit, appeal to a human scale and inspire a quiet sense of wonder.

Project: Mizzi Studio
Photography: Sean Mallia
Models: David and Leah Camenzuli
Manufacturing & build: Silvercraft