Style Guide: Craftsman

As one of the most historical and well-recognized architectural and interior design styles in the country, craftsman style combines the longevity of high-quality materials with the comfort and uniqueness of custom, handmade features. By embracing natural elements, clean lines, and materials inspired by the great outdoors, craftsman style invites every homeowner to pause and discover the beauty of well-made, handcrafted details. 

You’re invited to join Eastbrook Homes as we take you on a journey into the great American craftsman style. Together we’ll explore the history, attributes, and simple incorporation techniques offered by this timeless design style. 

Craftsman Style History

American Craftsman style originated from the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 1800s. In reaction to an ever-increasing industrialized and mass-produced world, people throughout the country intentionally sought handmade, unique, finely-detailed features for their homes and interiors.

Influential architects and designers like Charles Sumner Greene, Henry Mather Greene, and Gustav Stickley spearheaded the craftsman style movement, adding simplicity and coziness through the strategic use of exterior features and interior fixtures. 

The Gamble House, a National Historic Landmark in Pasadena, California was built by both Charles and Henry Greene in 1908 and is widely considered one of the most iconic representations of craftsman style in the country. With its unique, distinct exterior angles, dormers, porches, and natural stone and timber features, The Gable House carries each of the wonderful characteristics American craftsman style is known for.  

Craftsman Style Characteristics

Craftsman style combines architectural thoughtfulness alongside cozy, handmade details to bring simple, yet stunning exterior and interior spaces. Typically limited to one or two floors, craftsman style homes function as both welcoming bungalows and well-appointed, naturally-lit spaces for the warmest of gatherings. Craftsman style characteristics include:

• Fireplaces – Built-in fireplaces and hearths made from natural materials warm craftsman style living rooms and create a cozy centerpiece for families to gather around. 
• Exposed Beams – Wooden beams reveal the beauty of a craftsman home’s bones while adding structure and defining open spaces.
• Indoor-Outdoor Living Space – Craftsman style homes welcome the outside in with large, open outdoor living spaces and clear sight lines from the inside out. 
• Exterior Details – Gabled roofs, tapered columns, multipane windows, and large eaves function as trademark exterior craftsman style design features, adding interest before even stepping foot inside. 
• Built-Ins – From bookcases and shelving to pantries and cabinetry, built-in elements bring craftsman-style spaces to life and unify spaces throughout the home.
• Handmade Uniqueness – Craftsman style centers on handcrafted features, including stained glass windows, hand-carved door frames, and stonework throughout.

How to Incorporate Craftsman Style Into Your Home

Seeking easy ways to bring the simplicity and beauty of craftsman style into your home? Try incorporating a few of these ideas into your spaces and watch your eye for detail transform your home one room at a time. 

• Earthy Tones – Craftsman style favors natural hues, including sage, coffee, and brick. Add pops of natural colors throughout the home with the help of painted cabinets, pillows, art, and planters.
• Play with Details – Consider adding wainscoting to your office, dining area, or library or install faux wood beams on the ceiling to elevate your interior architectural details. 
• Try Tile – Patterned tiles in the bath, kitchen, or around the fireplace add a hint of personality while capitalizing on craftsman attention to detail. 
• Carve Out a Nook – Convert an empty space under a window or alongside a living room wall into a reading nook to bring craftsman character to the space. 
• Natural Light – Swap out heavy window treatments for light, airy, flexible options that allow the sunshine in during the day and create privacy at night. 

A West Michigan and Greater Lansing area  home builder since 1967, Eastbrook Homes proudly carries craftsman style quality and attention to detail through every step of the home building process. Our customizable home plans allow our Eastbrook families to select options that work best for their unique needs and lifestyle. For over 50 years we’ve built dream homes in family-friendly communities throughout West Michigan and the Greater Lansing Area and our collection of exterior and interior home features allows us to craft spaces and memories that last for generations. Start your dream home design process today by downloading our free interactive home building guide or connect with an experienced Eastbrook Sales Agent here for more info.