Book Review: Planetveien 12 (Planet Road 12): Arne Korsmo and Grete Prytz Kittelsen’s House

Abstract

The book deals with one of postwar modernism masterpieces that complete work of art and housing. The author treats the house’s ideas, planning and construction, cooperation partners and the changes that have been made through time. Especially the latter is of high relevance in relation to our own time’s practicing of and discussions on recycling and transformation of our cultural heritage. It also contains biography and discussion of the architect’s other activities, as well as the author's interpretation of the house. Among the missing are a detailed treatment of the house as a meeting place and a more analytical review of the relationship with the partners, especially Grete Prytz Kittelsen. And not least issues related to the use versus preservation could have been devoting more attention. All in all, this is a rare good, interesting and important book. Rather than an exhaustive presentation, the book is an appetizer to what was created in conjunction with Planetveien 12 as a vehicle, and the central theme of transformation.