Building better

"Luxury living in Malta has evolved beyond simply owning a premium property." As a third-generation member of the Fenech family, Zak Fenech is helping steer Tumas Group into a new era, balancing a proud legacy with evolving expectations around sustainability, lifestyle, and long-term value.

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As a third-generation member of the Fenech family, what has it been like stepping into a leadership role within a business that has helped shape Malta's property landscape for more than five decades?

There is a strong sense of responsibility that comes with being part of a family business that has contributed to Malta's development for more than five decades. Growing up in the business gave me an early appreciation for the commitment, vision, and hard work that have helped shape Tumas Group into what it is today. The Group has established itself as a pioneer and a leader in the industry, with a portfolio of landmark developments and a reputation for excellence, so there are certainly big shoes to fill.

At the same time, it is a tremendous honour to represent the Group within this sector and to contribute to the next chapter of its growth. I see my role not only as preserving the values, vision, and standards that have made the company successful, but also as helping drive innovation and ensuring we continue to deliver developments that positively impact the communities we serve.

Today's buyers are increasingly looking beyond square metres and sea views. How is Tumas Group adapting its approach to meet growing expectations around sustainability, community, wellness, and quality of life?

Today's buyers are looking for much more than just a property – they are looking for a lifestyle, a sense of community, wellbeing, sustainability, and long-term value. At Tumas Group, we have always believed in going beyond expectations and creating developments that offer that extra touch – something distinctive that sets them apart, and that lasts.

Innovation has always been part of our DNA, and that mindset continues today as we look for ways to raise standards across everything we deliver. We are constantly looking for ways to improve every aspect of what we deliver, from design and construction quality to amenities, sustainability, and the overall living experience.

We believe excellence comes from getting the small things right.

Ultimately, our goal is to provide the very best product possible – one that not only meets the expectations of today's buyers but anticipates the needs of tomorrow, while continuing to set benchmarks for quality and innovation in the industry.

The Group's portfolio spans a wide range of developments, from Laguna Portomaso and The Quad Central to newer concepts such as SABI and KORA. What do these projects reveal about how the definition of luxury living in Malta is evolving?

These projects reveal that luxury living in Malta has evolved beyond simply owning a premium property. Today, people are looking for quality, experiences, convenience, a sense of belonging, and a lifestyle. We are seeing increasing demand for developments that offer all of these elements, and our focus is on delivering best-in-class projects across every segment we enter.

The Quad Central reflects this evolution by creating a workspace environment defined by quality, flexibility, sustainability, and the amenities that modern businesses increasingly expect.

With SABI and KORA, we have created unique lifestyle destinations that redefine the leisure experience. Together, they offer a carefully curated mix of dining, entertainment, relaxation, and hospitality, catering to both families and adults seeking a premium beach club experience.

Laguna Portomaso remains one of the most iconic examples of luxury residential living in Malta. It was the first of its kind locally, introducing a concept found in only a handful of destinations worldwide. Direct access to a private lagoon creates a distinctive Caribbean-style atmosphere and lifestyle experience that goes far beyond traditional luxury real estate.

Across all these projects, the common theme is innovation and a commitment to shaping the future of how people live, work, and relax in Malta.

The Quad Central became Malta's first LEED Platinum certified building in 2024. Do you believe sustainability is becoming a genuine driver of value in the local property market, or is there still work to be done in changing perceptions?

Over recent years, we have seen a clear shift in expectations, with sustainable building practices no longer viewed as an added benefit, but as an important requirement for businesses, organisations, investors, and individuals purchasing property. People are becoming more conscious of environmental impact, operational efficiency, and the long-term value that sustainable developments can offer.

That said, there is still room for further education and awareness within the market, particularly around the tangible benefits that sustainability delivers, from lower operating costs and improved wellbeing to stronger long-term asset performance.

The Quad Central reflects this shift. By achieving LEED Platinum Certification in 2024, Tumas Group became the first building in Malta to receive this recognition, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability. Achieving the highest level of LEED certification reflects our commitment to creating developments that not only meet the highest international standards but also respond to the changing needs and expectations of today's occupiers and investors.

As developers, we have a responsibility not only to follow these trends but to help lead them.

Having worked closely with buyers over the years, what changes have you observed in the profile, priorities, and expectations of the Maltese property purchaser compared to a decade ago?

Over the past decade, Maltese property buyers have become significantly more informed, selective, and value-driven in their decision-making. While location remains important, today's purchasers are placing far greater emphasis on quality, functionality, sustainability, and the overall lifestyle a development can offer.

There is a growing appreciation for thoughtful design, energy efficiency, well-planned communal spaces, and amenities that enhance day-to-day living. Buyers are increasingly looking beyond the property itself and considering factors such as convenience, connectivity, wellbeing, and long-term investment potential.

Clients are conducting more research, asking more detailed questions, and seeking reassurance that developments are built to last and aligned with modern needs.

This evolution is positive for the industry. It encourages developers to innovate, raise standards, and focus on creating spaces that genuinely improve people's quality of life rather than simply meeting market demand.

Looking ahead, what would you like Tumas Group's next chapter to stand for, and what do you believe sustainable, future-ready development should look like in Malta over the next ten years?

The values that have defined Tumas Group for decades – leadership, innovation, quality, and a commitment to excellence – should continue to guide us as we move forward. Our ambition is to continue setting benchmarks and raising standards through projects that create lasting value.

When it comes to development, I believe a stronger focus on sustainability, thoughtful planning, and long-term vision must drive Malta's property market forward. Future-ready developments should make the most efficient use of space, resources, and infrastructure while creating environments that genuinely enhance people's quality of life. The emphasis should not be on building more, but on building better.

This means designing projects that are environmentally responsible, energy-efficient, and well-integrated into their surroundings, while also providing the amenities, connectivity, and sense of community that modern residents and businesses expect. As developers, we have a responsibility to create spaces that benefit future generations and contribute positively to the country's development.

Malta's next decade presents a great opportunity to embrace this approach, and I want to see Tumas Group continue leading the way by delivering innovative, sustainable, and high-quality developments that shape the future of our islands.

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