Paper short abstract:

Detached houses built in the 1950s, not renovated or refurbished, can still be found for sale in Sweden. This paper will explore moments of negotiation, within the more-than-human relations that come into play when people renovate older houses for the purpose of using them as second homes.

Paper long abstract:

Detached houses built in the 1950s, not renovated or refurbished to suit late modern tastes and needs, can still be found for sale in Sweden. The prices are cheaper and enthusiasts of the era often appreciate details typical of the time. Bathrooms and kitchens usually work fine, but time inevitably takes its toll. The materials that once where new and shiny generally show signs of age and wear over half a decade later. Sometimes the decision to renovate is brought to the fore by the condition of utility areas, water damage or mould, even though the existing style of the house is what the buyer was compelled by in the first place. The issue of how to best care for, maintain - and often renovate – demand knowledge, labour, patience, money and time. Ideas and imaginaries relating to the past meet realities and practicalities of the here and now. Furthermore, materialities harbour their own demands and conditions.

This paper will explore moments of negotiation, within the more-than-human relations that come into play when people renovate older houses for the purpose of using them as second homes.