Estonia Life-Style Homes
Homes
About twenty years ago entering an Estonian home might have offered few surprises - many of them looked relatively alike. Apartment buildings in the main living areas not only contained apartments with a typical design but also in the interior decoration with almost identical tapestry and even the same pieces of furniture were used. Still the lack of choice and resources evoked some people’s creativity which can also be seen today in homes where a unique approach is valued. Changes in society gave Estonians the possibility and will power to easily accept new and modern trends in almost every walk of life, including home improvement. Estonians are spending more time and energy making their residences beautiful, comfortable and safe for themselves and their families.
Although the largest families in Estonia have 14 children, the typical Estonian family is small, consisting of a mother, father and two children. It is not typical for different generations to live together under the same roof. Some young people leave home quite early for studies in another town and others become independent when they go to work after their studies. Still many families share their summer cottages and summer homes in the country - somewhere in the forest, near the lakes or by the sea. No matter how small and simple the house in the countryside, it generally has a sauna. Estonians are fond of relaxing in a hot and steamy sauna while occasionally beating each other with a bunch of leafy birch twigs called a "viht" in order to maximise the utter joy of the cleansing ritual.
Regardless of current trends, a typical Estonian home can always be described as having the virtues of simplicity and comfort. In addition, a friendly and open atmosphere can be felt. Estonians like to invite guests on a number of occasions - birthdays, national holidays, graduation celebrations, housewarming parties or simply for no other special reason than spending time with family and friends. Foreigners are no exception - Estonians are famous for their hospitality towards foreign visitors and tend to make a little extra effort in order to make foreign friends feel at home.
When visiting the homes of your Estonian friends or colleagues, you should know that it is customary to take your shoes off at the door unless you are told otherwise. From autumn to spring this also has a very practical justification – to avoid carrying mud into the rooms.
