"Right up to the present, building in timber has played the main role in dwellings, not only in Norway but in Northern Scandinavia as a whole, Finland, Russia, the Balkans and Poland. This corresponds to a continuous belt of coniferous wood running further north than 55 degrees Lat., within which timber houses have proved themselves to be the type of dwelling best fitted to the climate and surroundings. Two farms, Tofte in Dovre and Bjølstad in Heidal—both in Gudbrandsdalen—spring to mind. In Norwegian folk tales both are referred to as 'the kings' palaces.' In the nordic manner, they consist of numerous buildings, dwelling houses, 'lofts' and outhouses, most of which date from the latter half of the 18th century and belong to the double courtyard type ..."

— Guthorm Kavli. Norwegian Architecture, Past and Present. p78-9.