Arts and Crafts House Interior

Arts and Crafts House Interior

The Arts and Crafts movement began in the late 19th century both in Britain and the United States. This style emphasizes handmade, natural, and simple forms. It rejected the mass-produced and industrial look that was common during the Victorian era. If you want to achieve an Arts and Crafts interior in your home, here’s what you should consider.

Understanding the Philosophy

The philosophy behind the Arts and Crafts movement was to prioritize craftsmanship and to celebrate natural materials. Think of craftsmanship where each detail is carefully considered and each element has a story. This approach values uniqueness and individual expression.

Material Choices

Wood is one of the cornerstones of the Arts and Crafts interior. Oak, maple, and cherry are common choices. These hardwoods have rich grains that are enhanced with simple stains and finishes. The idea is to showcase the natural beauty of the wood rather than covering it up.

Stone and tile are also frequently used. You might see granite or slate for countertops and floors. Tiles are often handmade and feature earthy colors or nature motifs.

Furniture

Furniture in an Arts and Crafts home is typically sturdy and functional. Pieces are often made from solid wood with clean, simple lines. You rarely see excessive ornamentation. Built-in furniture is a hallmark of this style. Think window seats, bookcases, and dining nooks.

Mission-style furniture is a common feature. Look for chairs with slatted backs, tables with straight legs, and cabinets with visible mortise-and-tenon joints.

Textiles and Fabrics

Textiles play a crucial role too. Upholstery and curtains often feature natural fabrics like wool, linen, and cotton. Patterns are simple but may include botanical themes, emphasizing the connection to nature.

Colors

The Arts and Crafts palette includes earth tones. Walls are often painted in muted greens, browns, and creams. This helps to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Accent colors can come through ceramics, textiles, and glass.

Lighting

Lighting fixtures are essential. You will see a lot of stained glass lamps and lanterns with metalwork. Tiffany lamps are especially popular. The lighting is usually warm, providing a cozy ambiance.

Windows and Doors

Windows serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. They are often large with divided panes. Leaded glass windows featuring geometric patterns or nature scenes are common. Doors are usually solid wood, heavy, with distinctive metal hardware.

Fireplace

The fireplace is often the focal point of the living area. It might feature stone or brick and is usually large and imposing. You might see built-in shelving on either side, a mantel with simple lines, and decorative tiles.

Decorative Elements

Craftsmanship extends to the decorative elements as well. Items like pottery, woven baskets, and handmade rugs are common. Art prints or hand-painted works often adorn the walls. Everything should look like it was made with care and thought.

Outdoor Connection

An Arts and Crafts home often features a strong connection to the outdoors. This can be achieved with large windows and glass doors leading to a patio or garden. You might find covered porches with sturdy columns and overhanging roofs. Natural wood and stone elements continue outside.

Modern Interpretations

You can blend Arts and Crafts with modern elements. Stick to the core principles of natural materials and craftsmanship. Incorporate modern conveniences but ensure they don’t disrupt the overall aesthetic. The goal is to create a functional yet warm and welcoming environment.

Rooms in Detail

Living Room

Start with a solid wood coffee table. Flank it with armchairs that have wooden frames and upholstery in natural fibers. Add built-in shelving for books and decorative items. Incorporate a large fireplace, possibly with a stone facade. Use warm, soft lighting with table lamps and sconces.

Dining Room

A sturdy dining table made from oak or cherry wood should be the centerpiece. Surround it with comfortable chairs that have vertical slats. Add a sideboard or hutch for storage. Lighting should include a chandelier or hanging lanterns above the dining table.

Kitchen

Cabinets should be wooden with simple hardware. Countertops might feature stone such as granite. Backsplashes could be decorated with handcrafted tiles. Open shelving can be used to display pottery and other kitchen items. Lighting should be warm and functional, possibly featuring pendant lights.

Bedroom

Furniture should be minimal but functional. A platform bed made from a dark wood serves as a focal point. Add bedside tables with simple lamps. Consider built-in closets to reduce clutter. Use natural fabrics for bedding and curtains.

Bathroom

Stone and ceramic are prominent here. The sink can be set in a wooden vanity. Tiles with nature patterns might adorn the walls and floors. Lighting should be soft but sufficient. Pay attention to details with fixtures and fittings, opting for ones that have a handcrafted look.

Study

This space should foster creativity and focus. A wooden desk with ample workspace is key. Add shelves for books and other necessities. A comfortable chair should provide support for long hours. Lighting should be practical but also warm to encourage a calming atmosphere.