Older buildings are often poorly adapted to the demands of modern life in terms of functionality and comfort. The staircase is too steep, the house too dark and the floor plan incompatible with new requirements. In addition, such buildings are often listed and must be handled with extra care.The solution can be an extension that houses spaces and functions that are difficult to fit in the older building, such as new wet rooms or a more convenient vertical communication. When adding a new building to an old one, the architect has to answer some fundamental questions: Is an affinity with the existing house necessary when designing an extension" If so, what makes one recognise an affinity" What level of abstraction can be used without losing the bond between the two buildings"Is the contrast maybe just as important as the affinity" Contrast creates legibility and definition. It highlights the qualities of both the original building and the addition. Strict formal guidelines from the planning authorities were the basis for many of the decisions in the Bestemorstua project. 
© Mika Meienberger

Architects: Mikado Arkitektur

Location: Lauvøya, Averøy, Norway

Area: 300.0 sqm

Project Year: 2013

Photographs: Mika Meienberger

Collaborator: Poulsson/Pran arkitekter

Civil Engineer: Ottar ...