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A ROOM FOR EVERYTHING
In the 1800s, while poor families often lived, worked, and slept in the same room, a wealthy family could
afford to have separate, luxurious rooms for every activity. In big houses like Kylemore Castle, an army of
servants was needed to keep all these rooms clean and warm and to take care of the family. To do this the
servants also had a great variety of rooms, where certain jobs were carried out.
Ground Floor Plan of Kylemore Castle in the 1800s
The rooms marked with a bell, were rooms for working in. These areas were usually
kept well hidden from the family area and were often referred to as ‘downstairs’.
The rooms marked with a silver tray are rooms where the family lived. The servants were expected to
work quietly and keep out of sight, unless called for. The family could ring a bell when they needed a
servant to appear, perhaps with their lunch on a silver tray or more hot water for the tea!
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