Historic buildings and contemporary additions: the elements of a cohesive design relationship

Abstract

With the rapid evolution of our lifestyles and the development of new technologies, it is important to find a way where old and new elements of the built environment can be represented in the future in a balanced way. Because the relationship between historic buildings and contemporary additions has always been a tension in the historic preservation field, this essay will analyze the relationship between old and new and seek to identify the proper balance between the two and explore its value for architecture and preservation. Key elements that allows historic buildings and contemporary additions to work cohesively, respecting and promoting each other’s architectural and cultural significance, are carefully examined. Historic research, surveys, and case study analysis are utilized to seek out specific design elements and patterns that can lead to the success or failure of the union between old and new.