Craftsman style houses, a quintessential American architectural design, have captured the hearts of homeowners and architects alike for over a century. Known for their distinctive features such as low-pitched gable roofs, overhanging eaves, exposed rafters, and a profound use of natural materials, Craftsman homes embody a return to simplicity and quality craftsmanship. One may wonder if there are other names that this beloved style goes by. Indeed, the Craftsman style is also commonly known as the ‘Arts and Crafts’ style, reflecting its roots in the Arts and Crafts movement that began in the late 19th century in England.
The Arts and Crafts movement was a reaction against the industrial revolution’s mass production and lack of aesthetic appeal. Advocates for this movement sought to revive handcrafted artisanship and restore the beauty and integrity of accessible design and decoration. The movement was led by thinkers such as William Morris and John Ruskin, who championed for a return to craftsmanship and quality materials. This philosophy quickly spread to the United States, where it was embraced by architects and designers who were eager to promote a more personalized and artistic approach to residential architecture.
In America, the Craftsman style evolved and became synonymous with domestic architecture that emphasized comfort, simplicity, and functionality. The style was popularized by designers like Gustav Stickley, who published a magazine called ‘The Craftsman’ that featured house plans, furniture designs, and decorative arts that embodied the Arts and Crafts philosophy. This publication had a profound influence on American architecture from about 1900 to the 1930s, a period during which many Craftsman homes were built across the country.
Craftsman homes are typically one-and-a-half stories, often featuring a prominent front porch with thick square or round columns. These houses are usually characterized by their extensive use of wood in the interior and exterior construction. The interiors have an open floor plan with built-in furniture, large fireplaces, and abundant woodwork, all of which echo the Arts and Crafts movement’s emphasis on natural materials and visible craftsmanship.
The Craftsman style’s popularity waned mid-20th century as modernist and international styles gained favor. However, there has been a resurgence of interest in this style since the late 20th century, as more people seek homes with character and a sense of history. Today, the Craftsman style is celebrated for its timeless appeal and is often associated with the broader Arts and Crafts movement, which continues to influence contemporary design.
In conclusion, the Craftsman style house is also known as the Arts and Crafts style home. This name references its historical and philosophical roots in the Arts and Crafts movement, which advocated for beauty, handcrafted artisanship, and quality materials. Whether you call them Craftsman or Arts and Crafts homes, these houses are a testament to a design ethos that values aesthetic integrity and practicality, making them as beloved today as they were over a century ago.