The founder and creative director of her eponymous textile brand, Emma Hayes lives and works in New Zealand, a place from where she draws much of her inspiration. All of her designs start by hand — from paintings, drawings and mark-marking generated in response to the patterns and textures of the surrounding landscape.
Expanding her creative inspiration this year, Emma and her family have set out on a year-long European adventure. Below, she chronicles her experiences 9 months in to the journey:
Location:
Malta (Currently)
Duration of stay:
Our European adventure is ongoing; we initially planned for a year and have been here for 9 months so far.
Temperature range:
Spring and autumn are wonderfully mild, between 60–70°F, while winter was gentle, with warm sunshine continuing. Summers are said to be hot, reaching over 100°F – we have yet to experience the height of summertime here. Definitely a bit warmer than we’re used to in New Zealand though!
Solo adventure or vacation with family/friends?
With my husband and my triplet 10-year-old sons — a family adventure in every sense.
First visit here or a repeat destination?
First time living and visiting here. Living here offers an entirely different rhythm and intimacy with the place.
What drew you to this locale? And what is the reason for the extended stay?
We were seeking an opportunity to immerse ourselves in another culture and gain new perspectives, both personally and professionally. We were drawn to Europe for its historic contrast to the Southern Hemisphere, creative inspiration and market insights that made it a fitting choice. The light, the food, the unique culture… it felt like a natural place to expand both personally and creatively. The extended stay allows us to fully immerse, explore opportunities and travel in Europe, rather than just skim the surface.
Lodgings…
We’re living in a modern apartment in Sliema, looking out over the harbor to Valletta and Manoel Island. Sliema’s full of life and packed with beautiful old buildings — it was actually the holiday spot for Valletta locals back in the day. One thing I’ve really noticed is the traditional wooden balconies, or muxrabija. They come from Arab design and were used so people could see out without being seen — kind of like a built-in privacy screen. Most buildings are made from warm honey-colored limestone, so the timber balconies once became a sign of affluence.
Must-sees for design and architecture enthusiasts…
Malta is incredibly unique — it’s located between Africa, Arabia and the Mediterranean — and the mix of cultures that have influenced it over the centuries make it a dream for design and architecture lovers.
You can’t go past a wander through the medieval city of Mdina — it’s like stepping back in time. Palazzo Falson, a 13th-century townhouse, is a highlight. It’s full of character, beautifully restored, and gives a real sense of the island’s layered history.
Everywhere you go, the buildings are made from a warm, golden limestone — it gives the streets such a distinctive glow. And then there are the doors! Brightly colored doors and shutters, often with ornate door knockers called il-ħabbata — from sea creatures to family crests, they’re full of personality and were once a sign of wealth and status.
I’d also recommend checking out Palazzo Parisio in Naxxar — the garden alone is worth it. And if you’re into design, keep an eye out for modern architecture tucked behind historic facades — there are some amazing contemporary takes on traditional Maltese townhouses.
Postcard moment…
One evening, not long after we arrived, watching the sun set over the Mediterranean from a rocky outcrop near the Blue Grotto while my boys swam in the crystal clear water below — the low warm autumn light turning every shade of apricot and rose — I felt a deep stillness. It’s moments like that which find their way into my designs almost without me realizing.
Souvenirs…
Although we are light on suitcase space, we brought home a handwoven mat made from local cotton, which we found in Rabat after a lovely conversation with the store owner. It’s a piece I’ll treasure — not just for how it looks, but for the memory it holds.
We also found a large Kilim rug in soft ochre tones. The sun-washed colors really capture the essence of the place beautifully.
And finally, a traditional il-ħabbata (Maltese door knocker). My son, who loves animals, chose a lion design. We’ll probably need to change our front door to fit it — but I’m willing to commit to that.
Lasting influence…
Experiencing Malta through the seasons — especially the warm autumn light shifting across the limestone — has deepened my appreciation for color and texture. The outlook over the water changes constantly, offering an endless palette of tones.
Life here is noisy and chaotic but in contrast to our usual life routines at home, I’ve found that we have more “space” here. It’s given me time to slow down, observe, and let ideas unfold more naturally. I’ve found my design approach becoming more layered and patient, shaped by the Mediterranean light, textures and rhythm.
Greatest takeaway…
Working in a different part of the world definitely brings a fresh perspective. Being in a new environment has injected new energy into how we approach color — there’s a shift in palette that reflects the surroundings here. At the same time, the distance has given me a deeper appreciation for what’s unique about home. It’s reminded me of the context and influences that have shaped our work so far. That contrast — between the familiar and the new — feels creatively energizing.
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