Paper short abstract:

In my presentation, I will discuss the evolution of heating practices in residences during the interwar period and the 'great acceleration' after WWII. This intricate development can be encapsulated by the concept of 21 degrees culture, which exerted a significant impact on everyday life.

Paper long abstract:

The establishment of the 21 degrees culture was part of the modernization of everyday life that took place during this period. The context was the suburbs and the new single-family houses designed by modernist architects and the new understanding of ‘home’ that followed from this. Central and district heating were the two important breakthroughs for a convenient indoor climate.

With the 21 degrees culture, the materiality of energy was moved out of the dwelling, i.e. the residents did no longer have to do any work to heat the home. It relates to significant changes in the infrastructures linked to the heating, both inside and outside the dwelling.

Next, the 21 degrees culture is characterized by the possibility of even heat throughout the dwelling, in contrast to the previous zone-divided radiant heat. It was of great importance both for the floor plan, which became far more flexible, for clothing, where light textiles, especially cotton, became commonplace, and for the interaction between the residents.

In my presentation, I will briefly present the process of immaterialization and especially discuss the improvements to everyday life that came with the 21 degrees culture. In conclusion, I will discuss what factors promoted the introduction of and changes in this culture.