Valletta’s bright British phone boxes are about to get a makeover – but here’s what we’d like to see!
Love them, or hate them (wait, what?), red British phone boxes - specifically, those dotted around the capital - are going to be given a spruce up. This week saw the announcement that 11 of these iconic bright vestiges of Malta’s colonial times will be restored back to their former glory. While some might dismiss these artefacts as reminders of the island’s subjugation, we believe the past should not be erased, but simply updated for our postmodern times. So, instead of simply giving them a lick of paint or - nonsensically - consigning them to the trash heap of history, here are some ideas of what else could be done with these bold booths.
1. Transform them into greenhouses…
Considering the dearth of green spaces all across the island (no, traffic roundabouts don’t count), it might be worth sowing the seeds for fresh plants to grow out of these iconic booths. Bougainvillea is an obvious blossom to feature, but herbs such as basil, rosemary and thyme, can also be included, hitting passers-by with their aromas. Not only will these budding boxes look great – but their smell will attract many from far and wide.
2. …or into bookshops
Ideas will bloom (we hope) by remodelling these red spaces into small bookshops. This actually already exists on the island – there is one outside The Palace Hotel in Sliema – but the capital could also do with the creation of a few more reading spots. Add a couple of comfy armchairs, an umbrella and you’ve created a little cove where people can not only shelter from the sun, but also find refuge in a good story.
3. Create pop-up coffee – or tea - shops
Move over Starbucks! Why go large and multi-national when you can go small – micro-small, artisanal and rare, that is. Focusing on sustainable sources of coffee or tea, these micro-cafes could be the next big thing and would offer an alternative to the mass produced, mass consumed, mass Americanos. They will be self-service, allowing you to perfectly calibrate your intake of caffeine and milk, to your express requirements, and all proceeds could go to a local charity. This is a win-win on so many levels! Scones and red velvet cake (almost) optional.
4. Give them a 21st century update
We may not need a phone booth to get us out of a sticky spot (while, ironically, getting us in one), but here are ways in which these relics of the past can be repurposed for today’s requirements. Free phone charging capabilities, WiFi access, and a simple plug may be all that is needed to get them being used again. And, while you’re at it, revamp them in the latest trendy styles, so they never go out of fashion again.
What would you like to see?