A Maltese architecture project has gained international recognition, with Malta International Airport’s VIP Terminal receiving an Honourable Mention at the 2026 International Architecture Awards.
The project was recognised in the Airports and Transportation Centers category of the awards organised by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design together with The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies.
A contemporary terminal with a Maltese identity
Designed by Malta-based Valentino Architects, the revamped VIP Terminal was completed in 2025 and sits just metres from the airport runway.
The project involved reconstructing the western section of the existing building, used for Commercially Important Persons, while retaining its eastern wing for ministerial and diplomatic use.
One particularly Maltese element of the redesign can be found in the building itself.
Limestone blocks from the former terminal were carefully dismantled and reused rather than simply discarded. According to the award organisers, the stone was sliced to expose new surfaces before being hand-textured using the traditional Maltese mannarett chisel.
The approach combines limestone walls, rough plaster and natural light, while the upper level provides more private spaces and terraces overlooking the runway.
A large rooftop solar array also contributes towards the building’s energy requirements.
Another recognition for the project
The international honour follows previous recognition for the VIP Terminal.
It received the Hospitality Design Award at the 2025 Premju Emanuele Luigi Galizia, organised by Malta’s Kamra tal-Periti, and was also among the Maltese projects nominated for the 2026 EU Mies Awards.
More than 300 projects from over 50 countries were recognised across the 2026 International Architecture Awards programme, while another 144 projects received Honourable Mentions.
For Malta International Airport’s VIP Terminal, the latest recognition puts another international spotlight on a project combining contemporary airport hospitality with elements drawn directly from Malta’s architectural identity.
