In architecture, details matter. Attention to detail is at the heart of what we do, from building materials and energy efficiency to strong collaborations with colleagues, clients and local authorities. Details are especially important in retrofitting projects, where heritage buildings are given a new lease of life, balancing historical significance with contemporary functionality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We interviewed Hyphen architects, Georgina Mullen, Rachel McCurry, Laura Vatteroni, Carole Netzer, Gloria Mart\u00edn, Eva Diego, and engineer, Eric Ruiz, to find out more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cBeing sympathetic to a building\u2019s history while introducing high quality contemporary design is the underlying principle of everything we do when working on a heritage building\u201d, writes Georgina Mullen and Rachel McCurry, architects from our Belfast office. \u201cBeing considerate is the fundamental approach.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Careful consideration<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cAny structural works must be considered carefully, and any modification to historical features should be avoided. Even if a brand has its own concept, it should be carefully adapted to the space when working on a heritage listed building\u201d, says Laura Vatteroni, architect and associate in our Milan office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Eric Ruiz, a mechanical engineer in our Santiago team, says that the fa\u00e7ades and interior structures of buildings like this \u201cdemand creative solutions, which is why it is important to plan carefully and involve the architectural and engineering teams early.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cOne example where this kind of project may differ to a new build is with regards to HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning). HVAC usually requires a lot of ductwork advancements; however, this may have to be avoided entirely in a heritage project.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Complementing styles<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When interior structures can be adapted, architects and engineers can create something special that respects the building\u2019s history and its contemporary use, often restoring iconic sites that would be otherwise neglected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe Palais des Arts project we did in Marseille is a real demonstration of how contemporary features can complement the history of a building\u201d, says Carole Netzer, director in Hyphen\u2019s Paris office. \u201cIt has required many hours of design collaboration and technical research with designers and clients, but the result is outstanding.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Balancing functionality with history<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Gloria Mart\u00edn, a senior architect in our London office also had to take a similar approach when working on a retail project in Battersea Power Station. Reflecting on the challenges, Gloria says, \u201cThe fact that the building is so emblematic, with a grade of protection and its huge scale, made the design and technical approval process very complicated. The landlord required submissions for each stage of the project \u2013 we needed to prove the store delivered the brand experience the client wanted and was also respectful with what the landlord and heritage needed to preserve.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cOften the biggest challenge in conservation work involves achieving a good balance between the purpose and the spirit of the building, and the values for which it is listed\u201d, says Eva Diego, Hyphen director in Iberia. \u201cOther challenges include the use of non-standard materials and out-of-the-box solutions, as one detail does not fit all.\u201d Georgina and Rachel say, \u201cIt\u2019s about working with what is there, but finding solutions\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n