The Development of the Chimney

In medieval Britain, when life was becoming more sophisticated, greater comfort was desired indoors. In previous dwellings, smoke from a central hearth rose up to find its own way out of rafters and gaps in the walls. The discomfort was incredible and it was hard to find a living space that wasn't covered in black soot. The solution to this problem was a chimney. It was invented by considering a way to force the smoke inside a space that could guide it to a suitable exit. A chimney flue shape was created and began to be a commonplace addition to homes.