The Allure of Casa Bonavita: A Labor of Love in Malta
There’s something undeniably captivating about a hotel that feels less like a business and more like a passion project. Casa Bonavita, the latest addition to Malta’s hospitality scene, is precisely that. When I first heard about this 17-room boutique hotel, what struck me wasn’t just its historical grandeur or its lush gardens—though those are undoubtedly stunning—but the story behind it. Suzanne and Christopher Sharp, the founders of The Rug Company, didn’t set out to create just another luxury retreat. They wanted to craft an experience, a sanctuary that reflects their love for Malta, design, and the art of living well.
A Serendipitous Discovery
What makes this particularly fascinating is how Casa Bonavita came to be. The Sharps weren’t actively searching for a property when they stumbled upon this 1715 mansion in the village of Attard. But the moment they stepped inside, they were hooked. Personally, I think there’s a lesson here about the power of serendipity. In a world where everything feels planned and curated, there’s something magical about a discovery that feels almost accidental. The mansion’s unspoiled charm, with its flagstone floors and papal art, must have felt like stepping into a time capsule.
But what truly sets Casa Bonavita apart is its gardens. High-walled and sprawling, they’re a rarity in Malta, where space is often at a premium. Christopher’s description of the gardens as something that ‘gradually unveils itself’ is spot on. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s a place to explore, to lose yourself in. If you take a step back and think about it, this is the kind of detail that transforms a hotel into an experience.
A Home, Not Just a Hotel
One thing that immediately stands out is the Sharps’ decision to preserve the house’s soul rather than erase its history. Many developers would have gutted the interiors to create a sleek, modern space. But Suzanne and Christopher chose to honor the mansion’s past, from the Sicilian-tiled kitchen to the frescoed ceilings. This raises a deeper question: why do we so often prioritize newness over authenticity? Casa Bonavita feels like a rebuke to that mindset.
The kitchen, in particular, is a masterclass in hospitality. By keeping it as the heart of the house, the Sharps are inviting guests to feel at home. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s a place to gather, to linger. This is where the hotel’s intimate sense of place truly shines. What many people don’t realize is that the best hotels aren’t just about luxury—they’re about creating a connection to the destination. Casa Bonavita does this effortlessly.
Design as Storytelling
From my perspective, the design of Casa Bonavita is where the Sharps’ expertise really shines. Their background in rugs and interiors is evident in every detail, from the Genoese furniture to the Karabagh rugs. But what’s most impressive is how they’ve woven Malta’s complex history into the decor. The island’s mix of Sicilian, Arab, Spanish, and Portuguese influences isn’t just acknowledged—it’s celebrated.
A detail that I find especially interesting is the dining room, once a courtyard garden, now adorned with bamboo blinds and a mural that evokes Yves Saint Laurent’s Deauville mansion. It’s a nod to global design influences while remaining firmly rooted in Malta. This blend of the local and the international is what makes Casa Bonavita feel both familiar and exotic.
Privacy and Seclusion: A Modern Luxury
In an age where luxury often equates to opulence, Casa Bonavita takes a different approach. The emphasis here is on privacy and seclusion. Guests can have breakfast served in their rooms, many of which have private balconies or terraces. The subterranean spa, with its jewel-toned tiles and high ceilings, feels like a hidden gem. What this really suggests is that true luxury isn’t about grandeur—it’s about creating spaces where guests can truly unwind.
A Labor of Love, Not a Business Venture
What sets Casa Bonavita apart from other boutique hotels is the Sharps’ personal touch. This isn’t a corporate venture; it’s a labor of love. Christopher’s admission that they ‘needed to simplify’ after selling The Rug Company speaks volumes. This hotel feels like a new chapter, a return to their roots as adventurers and creators.
Their journey to this point is just as compelling as the hotel itself. From their early days in Saudi Arabia, trawling souks for Afghan carpets, to their Oscar-nominated documentary, the Sharps have always been driven by curiosity and passion. Casa Bonavita is the culmination of a lifetime of experiences, and it shows.
The Future of Boutique Hospitality
As I reflect on Casa Bonavita, I can’t help but wonder if it represents the future of boutique hospitality. In a world where chain hotels dominate, there’s a growing appetite for places that feel unique, personal, and deeply connected to their surroundings. The Sharps have created something that goes beyond accommodation—they’ve created a destination.
If you’re into design, history, or simply the art of living well, Casa Bonavita is a must-visit. But more than that, it’s a reminder of what’s possible when passion and creativity take the lead. Personally, I think this is the kind of hospitality the world needs more of—authentic, thoughtful, and utterly unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Casa Bonavita isn’t just a hotel; it’s a love letter to Malta, to design, and to the joy of discovery. It’s a place where history and modernity coexist, where every detail tells a story. As Christopher disappears into the garden, leaving behind the meditative toll of church bells, I’m left with a sense of wonder. This isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a place to dream.
casabonavita.com, from €390
