Weathering
Weathering. It's both a certainty in the natural landscape and also in architecture as the wind, rain, hail, sun and snow make their mark over the years. In new homes today it has a very poor reputation (a building must of course stay warm and dry) and as architects we spend a LOT of time on our weathertightness details and coating specifications. However for certain projects there is something to be said for materials that have longevity, but that also age beautifully, possibly allowing traces of time to be shown across their faces/facades. A building showing its wisdom, its experience, it's integrity?
Solid materials of brick and stone have an ability to age and weather well, while corten steel uses its weathered and oxidised patina to protect the steel beneath. Timber has its own story to be discovered in thick weathered sections designed to withstand the elements. There is a certain beauty in letting nature put the final touches on a design ... but it comes down to a very careful selection of quality materials designed to last and a considered form that enables a structure to age with grace in its specific environment.
The examples given below are those towards the extreeme weathering but illustrate natures final word (if nothing else let it serve a reminder to get onto that painting job next summer... Im not encouraging neglecting maintenance!).
The final image is of a wool shed - an old building in Carterton that in its aged state captured the imagination of new owners who are about to transform it into a home. A fitting tribute to a solidly constructed building that has stood the test of time.
Share
