For the love of Swedish kakelugn

If there is one piece i wish i could import into every apartment in my now home NYC it would be the corner fireplaces found in many Swedish apartments, which are called "kakelugn," in Swedish and translates to "tiled stove." They have a fascinating history rooted in Swedish design, engineering, and culture.

In the 18th century, Sweden faced a severe wood shortage, and heating homes efficiently became crucial. To address this, Swedish architect Carl Johan Cronstedt and engineer Fabian Wrede designed the kakelugn to use wood more efficiently than traditional fireplaces. This stove features a tall, column-like shape with a system of flues (internal passages) that allow heat to circulate within the stove before it exits the chimney. The tiles that cover it not only add to the aesthetic but also help to radiate heat long after the fire has burned out.

The kakelugn became a beloved feature in Swedish homes, especially during the 19th and early 20th centuries, when they were widely used to heat entire rooms. Many older Swedish apartments still have these corner fireplaces intact, often lovingly restored as focal points. Although they may not be essential for heating today, they remain treasured symbols of Swedish heritage, blending utility with beauty in a uniquely Scandinavian way.