Construction on the oldest house on Laugavegur has been thrown into doubt after the Icelandic Heritage Agency demanded an immediate halt to planned demolition and rebuilding works.
As reported by RÚV, the 1848 property was once among Reykjavík’s most prestigious residences. Later, it was converted into a shop, though still contains its original roof timbers and basement structures despite many alterations over the decades.
Its protected status under heritage law means any changes must receive explicit approval from national authorities. This permission was never granted, the agency says.
Demanding answers
Pétur H. Ármannsson, head of building protection at the agency, said the decision by the Reykjavík Building Commissioner came as a surprise.
“The house is protected, which is the highest level of protection … all changes to protected houses must be submitted to the building protection committee and then receive approval from the Icelandic Heritage Agency,” he explained.
City officials approved plans earlier this month for partial demolition, a reconstructed façade, a rear extension and new retail space on the basement and ground floor.
The heritage agency, however, maintains that its only input came at the inquiry stage in 2022 and that it was not consulted on the final proposal.
It is now pressing the city for answers while calling for construction work to be suspended until the process is reviewed.
Source: Icelandreview.com
