One of Tile Envy's favorite design themes is the carefully crafted combining of old with new. Nearly everything about it is good- visually, sustainably, historically, and so on. I think it's safe to say that, along with nearly toppling the world economy, the previous era's suburban madness also reminded us of just how bad new w/new can be. Lots of houses overflowing with the best Home Depot has to offer was a sin against humanity on soooo many levels.
Here is a fun look at the other end of the spectrum coming at us from the other end of the globe (or seems like it anyway) - Vilnius, Lithuania. And if you haven't visited there- you probably have also missed the opportunity to take in the wonders of that area's Pavilniai Regional Park.
But situated in this park was this medieval cannon foundry-
The owners asked that their architects carefully preserve and honor the historic structure by encasing it in a glass structure. You know I'd love that!
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Outside, a 360 view of the Paviliai Regional Park is a stunning setting. How do you get to build a house in the middle of a public park??
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Inside, the views are equally commanding with upstairs "attic" devoted to the master bedroom, while the main floor consists of childrens rooms, kitchen and living/dining areas.
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The home, commissioned by a banker/antique book collector also utilized the brick-lined basement to store all his ancient books. Well that and his Turkish bath, rest rooms and garage. I did mention he was a banker, right?
For the complete story- just click on any of the photos, which will take you to - the always beautifully photographed and well written - Inhabit.com.