Contemporary structure is the misunderstood, trouble-making child of the constructed world. I found exactly how much trouble modern structure makes for people following writing this article for , at which the Comments section quickly filled with strong opinions — my own included.
The current perception of contemporary architecture is one of steel, glass and museum-like space. I feel that contemporary architecture is a greater thought — one that represents how we live now. The dictionary definition of contemporary is “Of, relating to, or characteristic of the present or the immediate past rather than the distant past.”
That said, how do we tackle the aging population of historical buildings? If they just be torn down because they signify a previous age and lifestyle that’s no longer relevant to the current homeowners? Might it be feasible to accomplish a contemporary work of design while maintaining an aged historical facade?
Listed below are several projects that have achieved exactly that — ancient structures made relevant by merging the old and the new.
Vinci | Hamp Architects
1. Mid North Residence, Vinci | Hamp Architects
This masonry building in Chicago was a dairy distribution center, but has been renovated into a beautiful, contemporary home that wraps around an interior courtyard. The intricate masonry detailing of the front facade (which is so hard to replicate now) was maintained, while the interior was rethought and redesigned.
Vinci | Hamp Architects
The recently designed living area within this former warehouse opens into the courtyard with big glass doors, filling the space with light and views. It’s a contemporary space that represents the lifestyle of its occupants.
Vinci | Hamp Architects
I adore this home’s beautifully comprehensive toilet vanity. It’s simple and beautiful. A mirror matched by extraneous lights mounts into the wall, with the lights woven into the mirror design.
The detailing of this bath vanity complements the exterior aesthetic as a contemporary contemporary upgrade.
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Vinci | Hamp Architects
2. Wicker Park Residence, Vinci | Hamp Architects
Here is an Italianate mansion and coach house conversion by the same architect as the previous project. Part of the home, for example, entrance and living area, was restored while other spaces were remodeled at a contemporary aesthetic.
Vinci | Hamp Architects
The marriage of the old and the new could be clearly seen here. A decorative wood stair handrail immediately converts to a more contemporary stainless steel style. The stair leads to an open and sky-lit playroom.
Vinci | Hamp Architects
After seeing the exterior, you could imagine a dim and spooky attic area, akin to your favorite horror film, at the peak of this home. Instead, the architect provided a beautifully open and light-filled multifunctional playroom.
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Schwartz and Architecture
3. Buena Vista Residence, Schwartz and Architecture
Historical homes often fail to provide for contemporary amenities — such as a practical kitchen. This isn’t surprising, given how we now cook far differently then if the homes were originally constructed. This San Francisco Victorian was no different, necessitating an upgrade to its kitchen.
Schwartz and Architecture
In this photo, you may see the juxtaposition of the new and the older as the wood from the new cabinetry climbs over the old hardwood flooring. The kitchen is comprehensive in a contemporary, clean aesthetic. The architect took good advantage of the present windows to fill the kitchen with lighting.
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Jenn Hannotte / Hannotte Interiors
4. Parkdale Victorian Renewal
Occasionally, a contemporary renovation into a historical home isn’t in the details, but at the role of the space. This three-story Victorian in Toronto would fall into that category. The house didn’t work with the couple’s style, so they went through a year of renovations to open up the six bedroom home to a more contemporary, family space.
Jenn Hannotte / Hannotte Interiors
Here, the kitchen opens into the dining area — a contemporary idea. The kitchen faucet is updated in its function, but visually nearer to the home’s original Victorian style.
Jenn Hannotte / Hannotte Interiors
The designer used a small window to bring light and airiness to the bathroom — a room that is typically under consideration in older Victorians. See more of this house.
These projects indicate that new can marry with the historical — functionally and aesthetically.
We’d love to understand your mixture of old and new. Please show us your house in the Comments section below.