Located in the heart of the historic neighborhoods of downtown Phoenix, this residential remodel and addition demonstrated a common predicament within historic district neighborhoods, which have become ideal locations to live; however, the home sizes are not conducive to modern family requirements and amenities. The clients expressed a desire to remain in their current home but required a dramatic increase in living space. With this in mind, [merz]project developed a new 1400 square foot addition that creates a dialogue with the existing house through experiences of thresholds, courtyards, and manipulation of light. By utilizing similar structural systems and proportions, but clearly different materials, the resulting zinc-clad structure possesses a pre-patina' that provides an aged appearance that contrasts with the older structure.