One thing all old water towers have in common is that once their original purpose ceases to be important, they quickly turn into eyesores. Yet, on the other hand, their historic and cultural significance prevents them from being torn down. A dilemma? Not for creative architects, city planners and communities considering an altogether new purpose, as these seven examples show.

Sunset Beach Water Tower, California






Brasschaat Water Tower, Belgium








Chateau d’eau, Steenokkerzeel, Belgium








Water Tower in Essen-Bredeney, Germany








Groningen Water Tower, The Netherlands




House in the Clouds, Thorpeness, Suffolk, U.K.








Jaegersborg Water Tower, Gentofte, Denmark






Strenči Water Tower, Latvia

Sources: 1800recycling