PAST PROJECTS
The best evidence of what a consultant can do for you is what they have already done. Below is a selection of projects that demonstrate BTQ Hospitality's approach to boutique property development, conversion, and operation.
The Coleridge Hotel
The Coleridge is a boutique hotel occupying a historic building in Valletta dating to the early 1600s. Located within a UNESCO World Heritage city, the property sits in close proximity to Palazzo Carafa, former residence of Knights of St John Grandmaster Gregorio Carafa.
The project involved the full conversion of a historically significant building into a functioning boutique hotel — balancing heritage preservation with modern guest expectations. This included renovation and interior design brief, systems implementation, OTA channel management, pricing and revenue strategy, and staffing and training.
The Coleridge now operates as a distinctive property offering rooms and suites, positioned at the upper end of the Valletta accommodation market.
Boutique Hotel Development and Operation
Heritage Property Conversion
House of W
House of W is a 16th-century palazzino that formed part of the former private residence of Grandmaster Alof de Wignacourt. The project, completed in 2022, involved the meticulous restoration and conversion of the building into five individually designed luxury suites.
The challenge was to restore the building's original character — preserving period features, stone detailing, and architectural integrity — while delivering a standard of finish and comfort that meets the expectations of the contemporary luxury traveller. Each suite is furnished with a blend of antique, vintage, and original artwork.
House of W achieved strong occupancy and rate levels within six months of opening.
Heritage Collection Floriana
The Floriana portfolio adds a distinct character to the Heritage Collection offering. Positioned in the historic fortified town of Floriana, these self-contained apartments combine retro design sensibility with a high standard of finish.
The project involved property acquisition assessment, conversion planning, interior concept, system set-up, and integration into the wider Heritage Collection distribution and guest experience framework.
Boutique Serviced Apartment Development
Luxury Serviced Apartment, International Expansion
Heritage Collection Kensington
The London acquisition extended the Heritage Collection into one of the UK's most competitive short-stay markets. Located in Kensington, the property targets visitors seeking a more personal, characterful alternative to the standard hotel room.
The project demonstrates the application of the Heritage Collection model — historic buildings, understated luxury, personalised service — in an international market outside Malta.
Island Hotels Group
As Executive Director and later Non-Executive Board Director over 18 years, Trevor Zahra contributed directly together with his brother and father to the growth of Island Hotels Group from a private equity company to a publicly listed business valued at over €100 million at the time of its sale in 2016.
The group operated four hotels totalling 2,000 beds, including two five-star properties franchised by Radisson SAS (later Radisson Blu). Responsibilities included strategic development, franchise negotiations, sales leadership, revenue management, and major event contracts — including the 2005 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting attended by 48 Heads of State.
