“It’s the workers and the craftworkers who build this country, and today we’re celebrating those who builds The Henrik Ibsen Museum here at Venstøp, in Skien, the new Henrik Ibsen Museum.” Said project leader Bjørn Rudborg.
What is a “kranselag”?
A “kranselag” or a topping-out is a celebration hosted by the builder or developer for the workers once the roof structure of a new building is finished. According to tradition, the workers raise a wreath or tree branch at the roof ridge of the building. If the builder or developer offers a celebration or a gift within a week of the wreath being placed, the workers hang a wreath or a flag in gratitude. If not, they may hang a “rag man” or a “ridge goblin” as a statement.
We would like to thank the workers affiliated with our outstanding general contractor, Consto AS, as well as Gøran Dreyer Jonskås, the site manager.
We also extend our thanks to workers from the many subcontractors and suppliers, including Eltera Skagerak, Bravida, TKT Inneklima, Rosbach & Forsland Bygg, Eckholt Maskinentreprenør, Malemester Kjelden og Tufte, and Elektrosveis.
The building the workers are working on may resemble an ordinary barn, but it is a national attraction, and one of the most important preserved artist homes in the country. After World War II, the main house was restored to reflect how it would have looked roughly 100 years earlier.
The difference between the post-war restoration at Venstøp and the work being done now is that this time we are restoring it back another 100 years — a total of 200 years.
As for the barn, we are not restoring it; we are creating something new. The barn will become an exhibition space dedicated to Henrik Ibsen’s life and literary legacy.
“We are proud of you! And I’m sure you are proud of your own work as well. I can feel it every time I stop by. I notice the good atmosphere, the smiles, and the friendly greetings. Just a few days ago, I was up on the roof discussing old roof tiles. Reusing old, weathered tiles is incredibly complex — not even one is perfect. But the mood and the effort were top-notch. That’s how all of you have been. We’ve been fortunate to have the very best workers, craftsmen, and professionals here at the Henrik Ibsen Museum. That’s how we create an attraction. So thank you so much!”
the project manager concluded.
