Sweden's iconic red cottages: A story of colour and culture
Few images capture the serene beauty of Sweden quite like its charming red cabins with white trims. Found by forests, lakes, and rolling meadows, these picturesque homes are more than just delightful to look at; they are a piece of history.
The red hue of traditional Swedish houses can be traced back to Falun Dalarna county. Starting in the 16th century, byproducts from the area's copper mines were transformed into a durable pigment called Falu Rödfärg (Falun Red). The paint’s iron-rich formula protected wooden facades against the harsh Nordic climate, making it a practical choice for the Swedish cabin.
This deep red colour also resembled the brick facades of European aristocratic homes, adding a touch of prestige to Swedish summer houses and countryside homes when red paint became more widely available in the 19th century.
While many Swedish red cabins feature Falu Rödfärg, not all do. Over time, the red-and-white aesthetic became deeply ingrained in Swedish culture and design. Some homes use modern red pigments or other variations, but they maintain the classic look that appeals to residents and visitors alike. The contrast of red walls with white details symbolises a harmonious blend of tradition and nature.
Astrid Lindgren's childhood home, Näs
Legendary Swedish author Astrid Lindgren grew up in this beautiful red cottage in Näs, Småland.
Photo: Simon Palerbro/Astrid Lindgrens Vimmerby
Astrid Lindgren's childhood home, Näs
Photo: Simon Palerbro/Astrid Lindgrens Vimmerby
Archipelago
Photo: Henrik Trygg/imagebank.sweden.se
The Moonhouse
Photo: LAJ illustration
Experience the charm
Originally reserved for wealthy landowners and churches, red cottages became accessible to ordinary Swedes by the mid-19th century. The colour’s popularity soared, especially among rural communities in regions like Småland. The "dream of a red cottage" thrives here, as these homes are now synonymous with idyllic Scandinavian living.
Today, red cabins are a quintessential symbol of Swedish heritage and a beloved feature of countryside escapes. Renting a holiday house in Sweden on your travels offers a chance to immerse yourself in the country’s picturesque landscapes.
A red cottage in space
The enduring appeal of the Swedish red cabin isn’t confined to Earth. Artist Mikael Genberg offers a modern twist on this beloved tradition with The Moonhouse (‘Månhuset’), an ambitious project aiming to send a red cottage to the Moon. Symbolising human creativity and exploration, the project celebrates Sweden's architectural heritage in a truly out-of-this-world way. The initiative has drawn international attention, blending art, technology, and the timeless charm of the Swedish red cottage – and if all goes according to plan, the house will land on the Moon on 5 June 2025.
Gammelstad Church Town, Luleå
Gammelstad Church Town is the largest and best-preserved church town in Sweden. It gathers over 400 traditional red cottages.
Photo: Peter Rosén/Lappland Media AB
Gammelstad Church Town, Luleå
Photo: Peter Rosén/Lappland Media AB
Brändaholm, Karlskrona
Photo: Jerker Andersson/imagebank.sweden.se
Red cottages in Småland
Photo: Tony Töreklint/imagebank.sweden.se
Tant Brun, Sigtuna
Photo: Linus Hallberg/Destination Sigtuna
Skansen, Stockholm
Photo: Tuukka Ervasti/imagebank.sweden.se
6 must-visit red cottage destinations
- Falun: Home to the historic Falun Mine, where Falu Rödfärg was first created, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for history and design enthusiasts.
- Gammelstad Church Town: A preserved church town featuring over 400 traditional red cottages built around a medieval stone church. Gammelstad, situated in northern Sweden, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Brändaholm: Located in Karlskrona, this small island is famous for its charming colony of red cottages surrounded by the Baltic Sea.
- Småland: This province is the quintessential Swedish countryside. Dotted with traditional red cottages amidst forests and meadows, it embodies the idyllic Scandinavian lifestyle.
- Sigtuna: Sweden’s oldest town, where red-painted wooden homes line cobbled streets, offering a glimpse into the nation's medieval past.
- Skansen, Stockholm: This open-air museum showcases traditional Swedish buildings, including red cabins, allowing visitors to step back in time while staying in the capital.
