This paper explores the architect's intentions and values and how they reflect them through the materiality of their designs. In particular, this paper analyzes renovated houses from the viewpoints of the discourse and the spatial character and materiality. We found that many architects emphasize time in their discourses and develop contemporary spatial strategies to express it. A common approach is to highlight the history of a building by re-using and preserving the old preexisting materials. At the same time, many designs combine material preservation with new finishings, creating contrasts that enhance both newness and the passing of time.