Kyrkhultsstugan

Unit 2-3F: (Nordic) Vernacular Workshop
Selma Lindhardt Blomberg
Nilagshana Maheswaran
Josef Eglseder

Log Hut | 1800s

The ‘’högloftsstuga’’ or southern gothic house, is a historical timber building typology found throughout the southern parts of Sweden. The three-part building combines a centralised, heated living residence with unheated winter stock and stables at either end gable. An interesting aspect of these buildings is that they were constructed in different stages – the centralised living residence with the hearth or open fireplace being the first.

What often characterises the ‘’högloftsstuga’’ is the protruding chimney and the height differences between the three building sections. These are usually a combination of a ‘’ryggåsstuga’’ (low cottage cabin) with one or two higher attics sections called ‘’häbren’’ which directly connects with the “ryggåsstuga’s” gables. The prominent chimney was introduced into the building type during the 17th century, initially smoke was drawn out through a ceiling hole. Following the introduction of the chimney, the smoke hole was often converted to a window, skylight, for ventilation. The construction techniques of the houses differ depending on the local, natural conditions and raw materials available at the building construction site.

However, these buildings were mostly constructed using a plank-and-post method, which is a building technique where horizontal timber planks are fit into grooves of a vertical post. The most common materials used to build these buildings were oak and pine wood, which are still plentiful in the woodlands of southern Sweden. The roofing more than often consists of peat or thatch, which also are common materials that are found locally.

Possibilities of Adaptability and Flexibility

Understanding the potentials of an adaptable construction in sustainable architecture

This Swedish vernacular typology is an excellent example of how the flexibility and adaptability of early techniques can extend the life of a building. Buildings were designed and built to transform and adapt over time as farms and families grew – which is an essential aspect of sustainable architecture. Structural development was made more accessible by the timber construction techniques which are centred around the original zone with the heat source. This contemporary Swiss example illustrates how historic timber construction can be used in a modern manner combined with natural and historic finishes and washes.

Stiva da Morts / Gion Antoni Caminada
Vrin, Switzerland | 1996