(Art)chitecture by Charlotte Vallance: Urban Renewal – The Merging of Old and New

In urban renewal, gorgeous old buildings are sometimes re-used with a modern twist. This particular McDonald’s is on the North Circular (on the way into London) and does indeed have a drive-in, but it looks so out of place in this eye-catching, attractive building next to an IKEA and small rows of houses. Really hard to miss!

I was recently asked my favourite building. My conclusion was that I don’t have a favourite in particular, more a type. This is it: old buildings which are used with a modern twist. Whether that urban renewal twist is that a modern company has made use of it (as in this case), or if a modern extension has been given to it (The British Museum in London, or The Westin in Sydney, for examples) – it doesn’t matter; it’s being able to still appreciate these amazing buildings without feeling sorry for them.

Get in touch with the author @charlsvallance and check out her blog. Check back every other Wednesday for the next installation of Art(chitecture) by Charlotte Vallance. Find designs by Charlotte Vallance on Society6.