MY STUDENT TRAINEESHIP IN MALTA: Marta Ralić

Marta Ralić
University of Arts in Belgrade, Faculty of Applied Arts

Erasmus+ Mobility for Traineeship at:

Niche Studio, Malta

During my Master’s studies in Interior and Furniture Design at the Faculty of Applied Arts, University of Belgrade, I had the opportunity to complete a two-month Erasmus+ traineeship at Niche Studio in Malta. I was drawn to this studio because of its approach to interior architecture, where context and architectural identity are central to the design process, ideas that strongly connect with my own interests as a designer.

What inspired me the most was the way every project began with a careful study of the building, its history, and its surroundings before any design decisions were made. During my traineeship, I had the opportunity to follow and participate in different stages of the creative process across several projects, while also observing the realization of previously developed designs. Seeing the transition from an initial idea to a finished interior helped me better understand how ideas, design decisions, and the character of a space develop throughout the process.

Instead of removing existing elements, the studio looked for ways to preserve and incorporate them into contemporary interiors. Traditional Maltese tiles, limestone walls, decorative details, historic windows, sculptures, and other original features were treated as valuable parts of the space that carried its story and identity. This experience changed the way I look at interior design. It showed me that creating a new interior does not always mean starting from the beginning, but often means understanding and highlighting what already exists.

Living in Malta was equally inspiring. My first impression was how many different architectural influences could be found in such a small country. Malta’s rich history is visible in its streets, buildings, and details, creating a unique environment where different cultural influences come together. Being surrounded by this atmosphere gave me a new perspective on the relationship between architecture, history, and everyday life.

The people I met also made this experience unforgettable. I immediately felt welcomed by my colleagues at the studio, and I noticed many cultural similarities that made it easy to connect with the people around me. I found the Maltese to be warm, cheerful, and deeply connected to their traditions. Their local festas, with music, celebrations, and impressive fireworks, showed me an important part of their culture and community life. At the same time, Malta’s international environment made it easy to meet people from different backgrounds, exchange experiences, and learn from other cultures.

Overall, my time in Malta was a beautiful experience. I enjoyed working on inspiring projects, learning from the studio team, and spending my free time by the sea, walking around the island, and meeting people from different cultures. Most importantly, I am leaving Malta with a stronger appreciation for designing spaces that respect their history, identity, and surroundings. I am returning from this traineeship with many wonderful memories, new perspectives on design, and experiences that will stay with me for a long time.