Introduction

When searching for a home, especially one with a historic farmhouse, one often faces the question of whether the kitchen and dining area were separate in the past. In the 1930s, the layout and use of spaces within a farmhouse were significantly different from today. This article explores how farmhouses were designed, how the kitchen and dining area were used, and why these spaces had different roles in the daily lives of farmers and their families.

The Layout of Farmhouses in the 1930s

The architecture of farmhouses in the 1930s was typically designed according to a standard plan. In northern Sweden, for example, these houses often featured a layout divided into three main parts: the singel (entré), the v?ning (hall), and the kitchen. From the hall, one could access the kitchen or the sala (dining room).

Usage of Spaces

The singel and v?ning were designed for social and functional activities. The kitchen, where the family would eat, sleep, and socialize, was the heart of the house. In contrast, the sala was reserved for special occasions such as Christmas or major celebrations like weddings, baptisms, and funerals. Wealthier farmers might use the sala more frequently, particularly on Sundays when they might entertain prominent guests, though this was still less frequent than the use of the kitchen.

Expansion of Farmhouses

As farms became more prosperous, the layout of these houses began to change. Wealthier farmers might expand their houses while maintaining symmetry. This expansion involved equally expanding the singel and sala. However, interestingly, the wealthy farmer would often still use the kitchen for daily activities, emphasizing the importance of this space in their daily lives. Expansion to include a complete second floor with additional salas became an option for those even further financially successful, though these extra rooms were primarily reserved for special occasions.

The Reasons Behind these Design Choices

Several factors influenced why wealthy farmers chose to expand certain parts of the house rather than the kitchen. Firstly, the cost of heating was a significant challenge. In the 1930s, heating was often done with hand-cut wood, and temperatures could drop to -20°C. While wealthier farmers could afford more wood, the cost and effort involved in heating a larger space were still considerable.

Secondly, religious beliefs played a crucial role. Lutheranism, which was deeply ingrained in Swedish society at the time, emphasized the idea that life should not be focused on personal enjoyment, comfort, or luxury. The idea was to work hard and not expect rewards in this life. This belief influenced the design and usage of these spaces, with the kitchen remaining the primary area of daily life.

Conclusion

While the farmhouse kitchen and dining room in the 1930s were designed with specific purposes in mind, the way they were used changed over time. The kitchen, designed for daily activities, remained the central part of the house, while the sala was reserved for special occasions. These design choices were influenced by practical considerations like heating and religious beliefs, shaping the lives of the farmers and their families in unique ways.