New Design for Old Buildings

Chapter 4

Material Facts

Figure 4.00 Door to the crypt at Christchurch, Spitalfields, London

Materials are at the heart of what makes old buildings special, so an appreciation of their attributes, coupled with careful choice, is essential for good design in historic environments. Alongside the beauty of the old, the qualities of modern materials should not be underestimated in creating sympathetic and dynamic schemes.

Construction methods and materials provide a primary source from which ideas and meaning can be drawn. They reflect people’s tastes, skills and relationship with a locality while being imbued with beauty and character derived ...