This led to compartmentalization of rooms/space and productive work within domestic space. As the room size decreased, there followed a tendency to divide the functions performed in them, establishing compartments based upon tasks. For example, the earlier art theme of a man sitting by a fire, and warming his bare feet got replaced by such themes as a man stirring a pot hanging on the fireplace. Changing technological factors influenced a reinterpretation of an art motif which frequently emphasized activity and work. So, partitioning which occurred for warmth substantially altered views toward labour. Since the new method of heating permitted compartmentalization, the medieval house ceased to be a residence only and became a site for a wider scope of more productive work. In all occupations from government service to home-based industries, fireplace and chimney helped to overcome the cold.

The compartmentalization of rooms in turn had important social implications such as growth of the idea of privacy. Once the castles installed the chimney and the fireplace, dancing was easier as there was no central hearth. But at the same time the king could retire into a private room from the noise and publicity of the hall. Where the king spends his time was not a trivial issue. After the remodeling, the king spent most of his time in his private rooms and the great hall was used for strictly ceremonial functions. It is pointed out that Henry III seized upon this as a means of escaping the confusion of the hall or great chamber.

Poems from this period lament this tendency in the following words:

Woe is in the hall in all times and seasons
Where neither lord nor lady likes to linger
Now each rich man has a rule to eat in secret
In a private parlour, for poor folk’s comfort
In a chamber with a chimney, perhaps, and leave the chief assembly
Which was made for men to have meat and meals in