Rough Past Meets New Design

Buildings and spaces bearing traces of the past that are integrated into new functional and artistic concepts are galvanizing the architecture and design scene. As a result of the increased awareness of sustainability issues and growing appreciation for existing building structures more and more often the decision is being made to convert rather than demolish – sometimes also because of economic considerations. This volume explores the question of the functional and creative possibilities emerging from revitalization that respects existing structures. The projects carefully selected for this volume demonstrate their worth through sophisticated concepts of utilization and ingenious approaches to design. The existing building structure is not renovated or even restored, but rather left as it is found with traces of past uses, often of its demise, preserved, sometimes carefully enhanced. Whether through aggressive contrast with the new or an interpretation of the existing spaces and surfaces, the interventions always show respect and consideration and establish an enthralling relationship between the old and the new.