Old Buildings, New Ideas

By Francoise Astorg Bollack,

Book cover of Old Buildings, New Ideas: A Selective Architectural History of Additions, Adaptations, Reuse and Design Invention

Book description

Some architectural transformations are modest, some are revolutionary.

Shining a light on the hidden side of the accepted narrative of the history of architecture, this book explores works which transform existing buildings to build a way forward, through adaptations, additions and visual shifts.

Examining 30 buildings across Europe, North America…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked Old Buildings, New Ideas as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

This book deals with one of my absolute favourite subjects: how great architecture can emerge from blending new into old.

Often architecture is thought of as being about creating completely new buildings. But often the most interesting and effective works derive from an architect working with existing fabric. This approach is not necessarily a matter of ‘restoration’ of the old fabric to its original form, but of seeing the opportunities presented by the remnants of the old in the development of something new and vital. 

Want books like Old Buildings, New Ideas?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Old Buildings, New Ideas.

Browse books like Old Buildings, New Ideas

Book cover of Courtyard Housing in Los Angeles
Book cover of On Altering Architecture
Book cover of Behind the Glass: The Villa Tugendhat and Its Family

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,201

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in the Middle Ages, South America, and architecture?

The Middle Ages 431 books
South America 37 books
Architecture 83 books