Architectural hybrids are all around us. Most historic buildings are now, in fact, examples of additive architecture. But after the schism of modern architecture, making a claim for additions as valid contemporary architecture amounts to a manifesto. A book on this subject, and about the exciting work being produced right now, is sorely needed. This is not that book.

Aiming to “explore the union of new and old architecture,” Old Buildings, New Designs is one of a number or recent publications on the question of re-use. But the subject awaits a deeper understanding of the architectural power of the combination of the old and the new. This book does not provide a broad, insightful critical review of the issues at hand either from a contemporary viewpoint or from a historical perspective. Fred Scott’s On Altering Architecture (Routledge, 2008) provides a more informed critical discussion, and R. Klanten’s Build-On — Converted Architecture and Transformed Buildings (Gestalten, 2009) offers a more stimulating visual presentation of similar material.