The VDC is located in the lower part of Valletta, at the bottom of Old Mint Street (Maltese: Triq iz-Zekka) and adjacent to the rear of Auberge de Bavière.

It housed residences and soldiers' barracks in the early 18th century, and later on parts of it were used for light industries including cotton spinning and bakeries.

Engagement efforts made during the project's early stages involved various stakeholders including communities living in the area along with the design sector.

[11] The Valletta Design Cluster consists of two blocks separated by a long courtyard which was originally part of Old Mint Street.

The other floors include five meeting spaces, a conference room and fifteen studios which can be used for creative activities by long-term tenants.

Known as the International Project Labs, these include accommodation and self-catering facilities for 11 people, and are meant to be used by visiting users, researchers or artists.