In the book Community architecture – rebellion! the dust is brushed off by the legacy of Norway's most famous architectural theorist Christian Norberg Schulz (1926–2000). The foreword written by editor Gro Lauvland calls for a revolt against "a mindset that characterizes much of today's construction production, which makes cities and places around the world increasingly similar – and which also leads to homelessness, both in a concrete and transferred sense".
The quote could have been presented by a parliamentary representative Stefan Heggelund (H), which raised the following in Aftenposten (October 4): "Why does all new architecture have to look the same?" New apartment blocks in Norwegian cities are reviewed: they are monotonous, gray and sad. Heggelund calls for more variety and elements of traditional style, and he believes that we must again "dare to talk about ugly and nice".
Architecture as a work of art "must be able to accommodate and convey meaning".
The debate in the wake of Heggelund's statement continued in newspapers, radio and TV – with constructive clarifications from among others Erling Dokk Holm (Aftenposten 7 October) and Camilla Dalen Moneta, Head of Norwegian Architects. . .
Dear reader.
To continue reading, create a new free reader account with your email,
or logg inn if you have done it before. (click on forgotten password if you have not received it by email already).
Select if necessary Subscription (69kr)