The old layered with the new, palimpsest, an ancient term for parchment that was used and erased
when the original text was unwanted, then reused. Intriguing traces of the old text were always
still visible-and often legible-under the new.
Being able to “read” parts of old structures underneath the new
architectural “text” relates past and present in a visceral sense.
Respecting the history of a building is key to a
successful conversion, and when it works - when a balance is struck between
saving the character of the old and adding the practicality of the new - the
result can be far more exciting than anything new built.
At first client and architect debated
whether to build a new house or an old one.
In the end the barn that stood on the property was made into a new cabin
within the old barn. To further diminish
the environmental impact no clearing of land was required.
A solar thermal system fulfills
the home's various heating requirements further reducing energy use. It supplies ample hot water and keeps the
hydronic radiant floor nice and warm without sending the electricity bill
through the roof.
The natural wood finish was retained
fitting seamlessly into to its surroundings and yet, giving the rooms a
contemporary ambiance.
