Description:
Else “Sprossa” Rønnevig is a Norwegian heritage advocate, author and lecturer whose pioneering work has transformed public attitudes towards the preservation of historic buildings and traditional craftsmanship. Since the 1970s, she has devoted more than five decades to protecting Norway's architectural heritage, particularly historic wooden windows, while encouraging communities to value and maintain their built environment. Her campaign began at a time when traditional windows in historic Norwegian houses were increasingly being replaced by modern alternatives. Recognising the importance of original windows to the architectural character and authenticity of these buildings, Rønnevig became a prominent advocate for their conservation and restoration. Her nickname, “Sprossa”, referring to the wooden muntins that divide windowpanes, was initially used disparagingly but eventually became a widely recognised symbol of her commitment to building preservation. Through public education, advocacy and cooperation with local authorities, she helped establish clearer regulations protecting historic windows and contributed to the revival of traditional window restoration skills. Her activities also extended to the reproduction of historical Norwegian wallpapers, including the Norsk Arv collection, and the restoration and renewed use of traditional wood-fired baking ovens. A central feature of Rønnevig's work is her practical and inclusive approach to heritage education. She has developed methods of on-site training that enable homeowners, volunteers, students and professionals to acquire restoration skills through direct involvement in conservation projects. These methods have been adopted by heritage organisations and restoration communities across Norway. Rønnevig has published 12 books, organised numerous courses and lectures, and contributed to the establishment of Norwegian Cultural Heritage Days. She has also held positions in heritage organisations and public bodies, including the National Trust of Norway (Fortidsminneforeningen). Her work demonstrates how individual initiative, community participation and the transmission of traditional skills can support sustainable heritage conservation. Among the projects illustrating her approach are Villa Snøringsmoen in Lillesand, Bjørkheimstølen, a traditional mountain summer farm, and Hesthagen, a rural cottage. These examples highlight the potential to preserve and reuse historic buildings while maintaining their cultural and architectural character. Her achievements have received extensive national recognition, including the Urnes Medal in 1987, the King's Medal for Meritorious Service in 2012 and the Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage's Cultural Heritage Prize in 2015. In 2024, Else “Sprossa” Rønnevig received a European Heritage Award / Europa Nostra Award in the Heritage Champions category. The award recognises her exceptional personal dedication, resilience and contribution to the preservation of architectural authenticity, traditional craftsmanship and public engagement with cultural heritage in Norway.