In Sweden you will not find the “McMansions” that the US is known for. I think this is better. The excess of size of houses, show of affluence that many Americans feel is important, is catching up with us. The downturn of the value of homes in the real estate market has caught many homeowners owing more than their house is worth currently.
American home. Not all Americans live in this large of a home, but most homes are larger than the typical Swedish home.
The return of the value on those homes is a long way off. Even with a pickup of activity of the market, there has been so much market value lost, it will be years before we are even on the value before the downturn. Some are now seeking to downsize and live in smaller homes than before.
Here is a slideshow of some typical houses in Sweden. I have included apartment buildings, because most Swedes live in apartments, in the city. This partly is because the young population going to the university, or starting jobs in the city. Student housing is very scarce, and many who have an apartment or house will rent a room to a student.
The red paint that is very common on houses is called, Falu Rödfärg. It is from the Faulen Mine, and has been in serious production since 1764. It is made from “throwaway” ore that has a low copper content. Some other minerals are used to make this pigment.
At first the pigment was only used by royalty, then by the very rich, then by the clergy, then it passed to the common people. It is a sign of wealth and prosperity. This made it very popular to use. However the qualities of this paint lets the wood breathe, and moisture and mildew is guarded against. The finish is matte.
Modern paints have replaced the original pigment paint on many houses, but anyone wanting to keep the building in the traditional mode uses the Falu Rödfärg.
Houses may have central heat, or may use the stove and porcelain fire place for heat. Indoor plumbing is standard, and modern appliances in the kitchen. Although, the old cook stove may still have it’s place in the kitchen, along with modern cooking appliances. Usually this is now just for décor, but many can be fired up for occasional use.
Source: tantjohanna.elleinterior.se via Amy on
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Seems cities in Europe are so much cleaner than US cities, by comparison. I love the houses shown in this post. I will happily take the yellow stucco; it suits my sensibilities perfectly. Sweden is perfect travel for summer, escaping the unbearable heat in GA and FL. I would sooner be writing from there than here in the heat wave of Southern USA. Thanks for the views from your Sweden houses.
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