The Russian stove is easy to recognize by its design features โ traditionally it had a stove bench (bed), was quite massive, often with numerous shelves for various kitchen utensils. At the same time, the cooking chamber is located in the depth of the oven, therefore, a special grip and skill are required to cook food in it. The base is a guard, there are usually two smoke dampers. Between the cooking chamber and the mouth there is a gas threshold, a wall due to which the combustion products are retained under the roof and burn out more completely.
Architects note that now some customers for projects of country houses immediately indicate โ we want not a fireplace, but a Russian stove. We do not undertake to assert that this is fashion or a return to the origins. We only note that the Russian stove is a truly multifunctional item โ it heats the building, serves as the warmest sleeping place in the house, and helps to cook food on live fire..
However, arranging a Russian stove in a modern house will lead to some difficulties. It is quite heavy, that is, you need a solid foundation, support for it. Experts call the Russian stove a separate type of small architectural form, so careful planning of its location is required.
To really heat the house, the Russian stove should be placed in the center, away from the outer walls. And it will take up a lot of space. Finding a good stove-maker is often no less difficult than finding a designer who understands what you need. And the services of such a specialist are not cheap. Decorating the stove with tiles, as in this photo, is an additional cost item.
In addition, if the house has a second floor, then the chimney of the Russian stove in the center of the house may interfere with the layout of the premises above. However, with all these difficulties, such a stove immediately becomes the heart of the house. In winter, you can compete for a place on the beds, because nothing more comfortable can be imagined!
We admit that now Russian stoves are often modernized, adding modern details. For example, they equip a fireplace on one side, add decorative details, abandon often too elaborate tiles..
Such an option can be easily imagined in a classic kitchen, where a Russian stove will coexist with a modern hob. By the way, many people note that the dishes cooked in the Russian oven have a special taste, now you can even go to special culinary courses in order to master this skill, practically lost by the hostesses..
The original version โ the firebox is located in a different room, separate from the beds, which did not become part of the stove, but are located above its massive part. It turned out to be a very warm and cozy place for sleeping and gathering with the whole family. Of course, this is not a classic Russian stove, modernized, but quite functional.
And this is the original biodesign of the oven, invented by the German company Lehm und Feuer. True, this is not a Russian stove, but a jet, rocket, the principle of operation is not the same. However, there is clearly a similarity in functionality and availability of a place to stay.
Finally โ if you are frightened by the difficulties associated with building a Russian stove directly in the house, you can try your hand, for example, in a bathhouse or on an open terrace, replacing the popular barbecue ovens today..
The mention of a Russian stove in a modern house interior is intriguing. How does the incorporation of a traditional stove from a different culture impact the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space? Does it serve as a decorative element or a fully functional heating appliance? Iโm curious to know more about the design choices and practicality of having a Russian stove in a modern setting.
Can a traditional Russian stove truly enhance the interior of a modern house? What elements could be incorporated to seamlessly blend the old world charm with contemporary design?