While Malta – and particularly its capital Valletta – is rife with magnificent buildings dating back to different periods in its diverse history, this 16th century palace is unlike any other on the island.

Lovingly restored and filled with an eclectic mix of pieces that transport it into a league of its own, the palace is truly a product of its owners: Malta-born and London-based interior designer Francis Sultana, and London art gallerist David Gill. Showcased in a recent special feature on The Times UK, the palazzo is a sight to behold!

Originally built as a bachelor pad for one of the Knights of St John (obviously!), the owners tell writer Lisa Grainger that the palazzo has had several owners in its lifetime, and was even damaged during WWII.

Following a painstaking nine-year renovation, the couple have given it a new lease on life, decorating it with their considerable art collection and assortment of interior masterpieces, including pieces by their late friend Zaha Hadid, Mattia Bonetti chairs and lamps, André Dubreuil chandeliers and mirrors, Campana Brothers chairs, Eva Rothschild artworks and Grayson Perry vases.

And while David was in charge of restoration and Francis tasked with the interiors, the couple agreed on the importance of contemporary décor. “Homes must reflect who you are and how you live,” Sultana is quoted as saying. “You can’t live in the past. You need to make your own history and your own future in a house. We’ve been collecting for 20 years. This is a showcase for what we believe in.”

“I was particularly inspired by a house that Tony Duquette did for [the late American socialite] Dodie Rosekrans, with its tiger and leopard print,” he continues. “So I found who wove those carpets and got them to make ours. I love a bit of tiger: it’s a bit Jackie Collins, but in the time of the doges, they loved tiger prints, too.”

And the carpets aren’t all he commissioned specifically for the Valetta palace. Among the fantastic custom elements are the ceiling in the main salon, which was painted by Daniel Buren; a distinct chandelier above the staircase created from a sculpture by Olafur Eliasson; and the piece de resistance: an incredible light installation by the late American artist Jason Rhoades comprising coloured electrical cords and neon words, which Sultana calls “a grown-up disco.”

Meanwhile, the dining room’s blue walls also feature an undeniable nod to his Maltese roots – gold Maltese symbols inspired by this designer’s favourite interior in Malta, St John’s Co-Cathedral.

“Sharing this house with Maltese artists, and people who love culture, is the nicest thing,” Sultana goes on to tell The Times’ writer, “I’m proud of it; it’s a real labour of love. And it’s rather lovely giving something back.”