Director and Founder Edwin Mintoff receives Newcastle University Achievement Award

Edwin Mintoff, Director and Founder of Dr Edwin Mintoff Architects has been awarded the ‘Highly Commended Status in the Alumni Achievement Award’ from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne in the UK. He is one of the first Maltese architects ever to obtain a PhD qualification in the field of urban design.

“I was surprised and honoured to receive the award, made possible only with the support, assistance and contribution of my team at the firm, of whom I am very proud,” says Dr Mintoff said speaking of this achievement.

“It is rewarding to have the work of architects acknowledged, particularly for their contribution to the improvement of the quality of our built environment. Although I am fascinated with architecture, I have always believed in the importance of urban design, especially within the Maltese context. I strive to improve the quality of life of the Maltese community, by practising good creative architecture and inspirational urban design principles,” he added.

This latest award joins numerous other local and international awards Dr Mintoff has received in the fields of architecture and urban design, including the prestigious ‘Prix Versailles’ award in association with UNESCO and the International Union of Architects (UIA) and the ‘A Design’ award.

Vice Chancellor and President of the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Chris Davies, presented Dr Mintoff with the award in an online ceremony, in keeping with COVID-19 restrictions at the time.

Congratulating him on his achievement, Prof Davies shared that the judges had recognised Dr Mintoff as “one of the small number of nominations that stood out as particularly outstanding examples of the valuable contribution being made by Newcastle University graduates around the world”.

In his message to aspiring Maltese architects and urban planners Dr Mintoff said, “I hope they realise the contribution they can give to present and future generations by being creative and by acknowledging their responsibility in shaping our surroundings. At the same time, they will receive much satisfaction and enjoyment in practising this profession.”