Craftsman House Styles

Craftsman House Styles

The Craftsman house style emerged in the early 20th century. Inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement, this architectural style emphasizes natural materials, hand-crafted details, and functionality.

Origins of Craftsman Style

The Arts and Crafts movement began in Britain in the late 19th century as a reaction against industrialization. It spread to the United States by the early 1900s. American architects like Greene and Greene popularized the Craftsman style. Their designs, particularly in California, set the standard for this architectural form.

Key Characteristics

• Low-pitched gabled roofs
• Wide eaves with exposed rafters
• Decorative brackets under gables
• Front porches with thick square or rounded columns
• Stone or brick piers
• Wood, stone, or stucco siding

Roof Designs

Craftsman homes typically have low-pitched, gabled roofs. The overhanging eaves often feature exposed rafters. This adds to the home’s handcrafted appearance. Many designs include decorative brackets under the gables, emphasizing the roof’s structure.

Porches and Columns

Inviting front porches are a hallmark of Craftsman homes. They commonly span the entire width of the house. Thick columns, often made of wood or stone, support the porch roof. These columns sit atop substantial stone or brick piers, giving the home a grounded, solid feel.

Materials and Textures

Natural materials are central to Craftsman style. Wood siding is common, but many homes also feature elements of stone or stucco. The combination of these materials adds texture and visual interest to the exterior. Shingle siding is another prevalent feature, providing a rustic, handcrafted look.

Windows and Doors

Dormer windows are frequent in Craftsman designs, adding light to upper floors. Double-hung windows with divided lights in the upper sash are typical. These windows often feature wide trim, reinforcing the handcrafted aesthetic. Craftsman doors usually have glass panes in the upper part, sometimes arranged in a unique pattern of small square or rectangular panes.

Interior Features

Natural Woodwork

Inside, Craftsman homes showcase natural woodwork, including built-in furniture such as bookshelves and benches. Wood trim, often oak or maple, emphasizes the connection to nature and craftsmanship.

Open Floor Plans

Open floor plans are common, facilitating easy movement between rooms. This design promotes a spacious feel, contrasted by defined areas for different activities.

Fireplaces

Fireplaces often serve as focal points in living rooms. Clad in stone or tile, they underscore the natural and handcrafted theme. Many feature built-in cabinetry or shelves on either side, enhancing their functionality.

Distinct Variations

Bungalow

Bungalows are the most recognized subtype of Craftsman style. They are generally one or one-and-a-half stories tall, with a low-slung, horizontal appearance. Their compact size is ideal for smaller lots, making them popular in early 20th-century urban areas.

Four Square

The American Foursquare shares many Craftsman features but has a boxier shape. Typically two stories, these homes have a simple, square floor plan. They often include a large front porch and a low-pitched roof with a wide overhang.

Mission Revival

Mission Revival blends Craftsman elements with those of the California missions built by Spanish colonists. Stucco walls and red-tile roofs are characteristic of this style. Arched openings and wrought iron details also appear frequently.

Prairie Style

Prairie Style, developed by Frank Lloyd Wright, intersects with Craftsman philosophy. Both styles stress craftsmanship and natural materials. Prairie homes typically have low-pitched roofs, overhanging eaves, and horizontal lines that blend with the landscape.

Modern Influences and Revival

Craftsman style saw a resurgence in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. New homes often incorporate Craftsman elements, appealing to those valuing traditional aesthetics and craftsmanship. Modern materials and building techniques update these classic designs.

Landscaping 

Landscaping around Craftsman homes typically emphasizes natural, native plants. Stone pathways and wooden fences add to the organic feel. Garden designs might include flower beds, vegetable patches, and water features that integrate seamlessly with the home’s architecture.

Sustainability

The emphasis on natural materials in Craftsman homes dovetails well with modern sustainability practices. Using local woods and stones reduces transportation emissions. Energy-efficient windows and insulation can be incorporated without compromising the aesthetic. Green roofing options and solar panels can be integrated subtly.

DIY and Craftsman Style

The handcrafted focus of Craftsman homes makes them popular among DIY enthusiasts. Homeowners often take on projects like restoring woodwork, building furniture, or creating custom light fixtures. These efforts add personal touches and maintain the home’s authentic feel.

Neighborhoods and Community

Craftsman homes are often found in established, walkable neighborhoods. Their front porches and open layouts foster a sense of community. Residents tend to engage more with neighbors, reflecting the style’s roots in social and environmental awareness.

In Popular Culture

Craftsman homes appear frequently in films and TV shows set in early-to-mid 20th century America. Their distinctive look instantly communicates a sense of history and authenticity. Examples include the Los Angeles homes featured in movies like Back to the Future and The Artist.

Renovation Tips

• Preserve original woodwork when possible
• Use period-appropriate fixtures and finishes
• Consider energy-efficient upgrades that don’t alter the home’s appearance

Resources for Craftsman Enthusiasts

• Local historical societies
• Specialized builders and contractors
• Online communities and forums
• Books and magazines dedicated to Craftsman architecture