Restaureringar på Gunnebo slott - tre exempel på bygghantverkarnas medverkan

Abstract

This essay investigates current and historic ideological and ethical perspectives and/or guidelines regarding restoration and relates them to restoration work at Gunnebo House. It does so by looking at these perspectives through the eyes of Gunnebo House´s craftsmen and women. By reviewing three examples of restoration projects that were undergone at Gunnebo, the aim is to gain understanding of the restoration process by looking at documentation of the projects and by interviewing its craftspersons. The essay focuses on the importance of the craftspersons and their work. With restoration work, there are, for each room, time layer and detail, as many influencing variables to the work as there are different choices of tools, materials and craftspersons. All of the different aspects that come into play when making decisions are specific to the particular situation in which the restoration is in. The craftsperson's experience and knowledge, their personal preferences, dynamics in the workplace, timeframes and budget are just a few examples of variables that all have the potential to influence the outcome of the undertaking. The results will change if the circumstances change. What these craftsmen and women bring to the restoration work at Gunnebo House is more than just pairs of hands that do the work decided on by others. They are integral to a decision-making process that is continually ongoing throughout the course of the work. The interviews in this essay show just how much and how significant it is that they should also be a more integral part of the documentation process of these restorations.