Water Towers Grow Again -- See Programs and Their New Shapes

Water Towers Grow Again — See Programs and Their New Shapes

In the end of the 19th century, home water towers were all about function. They then have been used to accumulate and store water, and private water towers scattered the backyards of little cities in temperate climates and made tiny peaks in city skylines. As times and utility systems changed, most of the little structures fell into disuse and were ripped down. But today homeowners are considering them in a different way. Not only are older water towers being remodeled as living spaces, but architects are designing new buildings with water tower–such as constructions. They’re attracted to the simple, utilitarian lines of the towers — and the fact that they frequently offer excellent views is a bonus.

Cody Anderson Wasney Architects, Inc..

This house was built with a water tower (only visible behind the gambrel roof) at the far end of its garden.

Cody Anderson Wasney Architects, Inc..

Recently the owners remodeled the historical home, and the architect moved the tower closer to the main living quarters and connected it using a farmhouse-like addition.

Cody Anderson Wasney Architects, Inc..

The tower includes a winding stairs.

Cody Anderson Wasney Architects, Inc..

Follow the stairs to the lower level, and you’ll come across a living room inspired by Tintin, the Belgian animation hero.

Butler Armsden Architects

At first glance you may think this water tower is a remodeled relic, but you’d be incorrect. This is new construction.

Butler Armsden Architects

The architect’s parents commissioned this house. Their single requirement was that it’s a water tower. The father drove around the area and took photos of current towers for inspiration.

Butler Armsden Architects

The quarters are held by the tower. The form causes for 14-foot-high ceilings in the bedroom.

Butler Armsden Architects

The top of the tower also affords stunning views of the surrounding farm fields.

See more of this contemporary farmhouse

Michael Cobb

Straightforward farm buildings have been an inspiration in architecture. This fresh water tower structure demonstrates why.

Michael Cobb

The clean-lined style of a traditional water tower completed in metal produces a joyful marriage with a sleek, contemporary residence.

Marc B. Spector

To keep water pipes from exploding, 19th-century New York City building codes demanded water towers to be on constructions greater than 6 feet. Every time a contemporary NYC family remodeled this penthouse, they kept the water tower.

Marc B. Spector

You may see it in the background. It is difficult to imagine the nyc skyline without the iconic towers — and maybe that is why they’re needed on all buildings in the Tribeca area, functional or not.

Madson Design

Not all water towers have been all remodeled. This weathered red case in point is probably not used for storage. But the allure it adds for this farmhouse is incalculable.

Bosworth Hoedemaker

When this house was built, a stand-alone water tower has been designed with it.

Bosworth Hoedemaker

Located a brief distance from the rear door, it serves as the guest quarters.

Bosworth Hoedemaker

Standing tall on the flat lands creates a strong architectural statement.

Vicente Burin Architects

Not all recently constructed water towers have a modernist bent. This example shares the traditional type of the main house.

This water tower –such as construction is unabashedly contemporary, but you may see the shadow of a traditional water tower.

More: 6 contemporary tower houses

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