LH Residence / STARH, Swisspearl Fiber Cement Facade. Image © Dian Stanchev

Published on October 26, 2026

Adding new floors on top of a historic building presents a challenge beyond accommodating additional space: how can a contemporary intervention respond to the character of an existing structure? Material selection plays an important role in establishing a relationship between different construction periods, whether the aim is to complement the existing building or create a more distinct architectural expression. The LH Residence in Varna , Bulgaria , designed by STARH , offers an example of how fiber cement can help relate a contemporary addition to a historic building.

As a composite material made from cement , water, reinforcing fibers, and other additives, fiber cement combines relative lightness with strength and durability.…