smårom

Smårom is a Swedish architectural term that translates to “small rooms.” In Swedish housing literature, smårum refer to compact interior spaces that are smaller than the main living rooms and are usually defined by their specific function rather than by a shared, open-plan design. They were commonly used for purposes such as bedrooms, pantries, storage, or servants’ quarters, and could also function as transitional spaces between other rooms.

Historical context and use: In urban Swedish housing, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries, many dwellings featured several smårom arranged along a corridor or within a compact floor plan. This configuration allowed landlords to maximize the number of rentable units and to adapt to limited building footprints. Rooms often had limited daylight and ventilation compared with larger living spaces, reflecting economic and planning priorities of the period.

Layout and construction: Smårom were typically accessed from a shared hallway or central stair, and were defined by interior partitions of timber or masonry with simple finishes. Windows were placed on outer walls to provide light, and kitchens or service areas sometimes occupied a small, separate room rather than an integrated kitchen-living area. Interiors emphasized function, with built-in storage and straightforward furnishings.

Modern context: In contemporary Swedish housing, the term smårom remains relevant for describing compact sleeping rooms, pantries, or utility spaces in apartments. Modern design increasingly emphasizes daylight, flexibility, and ventilation, with many former smårum repurposed as home offices, walk-in closets, or auxiliary spaces. The concept continues to inform discussions about housing efficiency, crowding, and interior standards in both historical and preservation contexts.