A space beyond the realm of traditional architecture. Modern decay with a conceptual twist. Places that display their venerable age with pride. On surfaces where textures highlight the passage of time as well as in ruined stone walls that almost defy the coming of a new era. The signs of the past alongside the refinement of contemporary design. Yet all of these houses, structures, and homes feature a harmonious relationship between the two periods of time. Not a clash of contrasting elements, but a symbiosis.
More than simply preserved, the remnants of the past are celebrated and transformed. Designs that play upon the concept of modern decay and also successfully enhance both features. Some architectural projects create a clear delimitation between the aged and the new elements, while others integrate the past in contemporary structures in a seamless way.
The first category includes masterpieces like La Ruina Habitada, a place where the architects brought a strong surreal twist to the design. In the second group, residential structures such as the house in Mexico that features swimming areas flowing in and out of outdoor spaces divided by stone walls. Other projects take the concept in another direction by re-purposing agricultural or industrial buildings.
In the world of modern decay architecture, stone and metal often become the symbols of different eras. Exposed brick, natural stone, and walls in disrepair alongside cladding of corroded steel or brushed stainless steel surfaces in interiors. Minimalist design allows the character of the materials to shine through, opening up a conversation on the value of heritage and the meaning of change.
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A rural estate, transformed into a sprawling retreat that celebrates vernacular architecture and the beauty of natural materials. Located in…
The ruins of a stone cottage, transformed into a coastal retreat with spectacular sea views. Located on the island of…
An old farm and tobacco barn, transformed into a modern-rustic residence. Located in Aillas, France, this property comprised two old…
A traditional brick house, redesigned with tranquil and minimalist interiors. Named Aristo House, this stone building that dates back to…
An old workshop converted into a family home with a walled garden. Located in the district of Drongen, in Ghent,…
An old brick factory converted into the base of a historical pastry brand founded in 1911. Located close to the…
An old farmhouse converted into a warm living space that opens to views of vineyards. Milan-based Studio Wok uses an…
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A rehabilitated building from 1954 transformed into a flexible, co-working space. Located in Dehesas, in the province of León, northwestern…
An intimate restaurant opened within the walls of an old carpentry workshop. Located in the town of Barr, France, an…
An old agricultural building converted into a family house and studio. Located in the suburban area of Berlin Rosenthal-Nord, a…
Summer and winter retreats built within the walls of old stone houses in the Swiss Alps. Located in the Onsernone…
A home and artist studio partly built within the ruins of an old barn. Built in a gorgeous coastal landscape,…
A former hospital transformed into a modern hotel. ocated in the center of Hiroshima, Japan, Kiro Hiroshima provides a different…
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