Old Buildings, New Architecture

In this book, Richard Griffiths describes the creation of new architecture for old buildings, through the story of his practice, Richard Griffiths Architects, and of the projects that he has completed over 25 years. He writes of his belief that adding a new layer of architecture and use to old buildings is as interesting and rewarding as designing new buildings, since old buildings have a richness of memory, significance and texture that new buildings can only acquire over time. The book is richly illustrated with colour photographs and covers the following:
• The making of an architect;
• The layering of history: Sutton House;
• Old and new in context: Southwark Cathedral;
• Old and new in contrast: Lambeth Palace and Burghley;
• Historic houses for the public;
• The care of churches;
• The care of cathedrals: St Albans Abbey;
• New design in an historic context;
• The typology of barns;
• The art of repair and the texture of age;
• The art of construction and detailing;
• Architecture and decoration;
• New uses for old buildings;
• The case for restoration;
• Historic gardens and landscape;
• The regeneration of historic areas;
• Conservation cause celebre: St Pancras Hotel and Station

‘I had not begun to appreciate the extent of your work, not least on buildings I know well and have come to admire. I can only describe you as a saint of the built environment.’
Simon Jenkins, SAVE and Guardian columnist

‘This monograph is about the stimulating environment of history, memory and the graceful process of ageing, about the art of adding a new layer to old buildings. It sums up the life experience of a designer who would not be pigeonholed in the role of conservation architect. The thematic structure allows readers to use the book as an encyclopaedia as well as a course on contextual design. It will be of equal interest to professionals and those who would like a taster of both heritage and design.’
Michael Asselmeyer, IHBC Context magazine.