Step Back in Time: Exploring the Charm and Character of National Romantic Homes from the 1910s

The 1910s, also known as the National Romantic era, was a time when the ideals of traditional rural living were embraced by many. This was reflected in the design of homes, which emphasized a connection to nature and an appreciation for the past. If you're interested in this period, here are some key features to look out for in National Romantic Homes.

Photo by Kristoffer Ärnback, Leksands Kommun

Exterior:

1. Wooden Facade: Horizontal or vertical wooden boards were often used for the exterior of National Romantic homes, and these were sometimes painted with rye-flour paint in the iconic "falu red" color.

2. Steep Roof: The roof of a National Romantic home was typically steep, with pantiles and dormer windows.

3. Small Windows: The windows of a National Romantic home were small and often had small panes. The surroundings and weatherboarding were pronounced and often painted in white, brown, or green.

4. Exuberant Joinery Work: National Romantic homes often featured shutters, porches, verandas, and heart and sun cutouts in the gables. These decorative details were inspired by old Scandinavian mythology and the Viking age.

5. Rural Ideal: National Romantic homes were designed with the rural ideal of a good home in mind. This meant that they were built to be practical, functional, and comfortable, with an emphasis on simplicity and harmony with nature.

Interior:

1. Tongue-and-Groove Floorboards: The floors of National Romantic homes were often made from tongue-and-groove floorboards, which were either varnished or covered with linoleum.

2. Paneled Doors: Interior doors were typically paneled and had rail frames.

3. Solid Door Handles: Door handles were made from solid brass or chromed steel.

4. Rounded and Flat Tiled Stoves: National Romantic homes often featured rounded and flat tiled stoves with flower decorations or ancient Scandinavian patterns. The tiles were usually pale green or blue with patterns in relief.

5. Gobelin Wallpapers: National Romantic homes often had walls covered in Gobelin wallpapers or painted panels. The wallpaper designs were similar to those of the previous decade but clearer and more simplified.

6. Built-In Furniture: Built-in furniture and seating were common in National Romantic homes, and the design was often inspired by folklore.

7. Pendant Lamps: Lighting in National Romantic homes was usually provided by clear glass and frosted glass shades and pendant lamps.

8. Washroom and Kitchen: New homes in the National Romantic era were often fitted with a washroom and kitchen. The walls of the washroom were lime-plastered and painted with linseed-oil paint, and the kitchen cupboards were often painted zinc green or traditional rustic colors.

In conclusion, the National Romantic era was a time when the ideals of traditional rural living were celebrated in the design of homes. From the steep roof and wooden facade to the tongue-and-groove floorboards and paneled doors, National Romantic homes were designed to be practical, functional, and comfortable. If you're interested in this period, keep an eye out for these key features in National Romantic homes.