The charm of an Arts and Crafts home is unmistakable. Warm, handcrafted, natural, and rooted in traditional craftsmanship, this style has remained one of the most loved architectural designs for more than a century. Whether you plan to build, renovate, or simply appreciate this style, understanding the details of an Arts and Crafts style house will help you see why it continues to inspire homeowners and designers today.
This guide covers the origins, defining characteristics, construction materials, interior elements, variations, and modern interpretations of Arts and Crafts houses so you can fully understand this iconic architectural movement.
What Is an Arts and Crafts Home?
An Arts and Crafts home emerged from the late 19th-century Arts and Crafts movement, which opposed industrialization and mass production. The movement emphasized handcrafted work, natural materials, and functional design instead of ornate decoration. An Arts and Crafts house often highlights simple lines, balanced proportions, and a welcoming, nature-integrated atmosphere.
These homes are sometimes referred to as Arts and Crafts style houses or arts and craft style homes, all describing the same tradition of craftsmanship and natural beauty.
History of the Arts and Crafts Movement
The Arts and Crafts movement began in Britain during the 1880s, inspired by designer William Morris. It later spread to the United States, where it influenced a wide range of architectural styles including Craftsman homes, Bungalows, Prairie homes, and Mission Revival houses.
The main beliefs of the movement included the importance of handmade craftsmanship, authenticity in materials, simplicity in design, and a strong connection to nature. These beliefs shaped both the interior and exterior elements of Arts and Crafts houses, creating buildings that felt warm, functional, and well-integrated into their surroundings.
Key Features of an Arts and Crafts Style House
Low-Pitched Roofs and Deep Eaves
One of the most recognizable features of an Arts and Crafts style house is the low-pitched or gabled roof. These roofs include wide overhanging eaves, exposed rafters, and visible structural elements that highlight the craftsmanship behind the construction.
Natural Materials
Natural materials define the aesthetics of Arts and Crafts houses. Wood, stone, brick, and copper are often used because they express character, warmth, and durability. Instead of hiding natural textures, this architectural style celebrates them.
Large and Comfortable Porches
Porches are common in arts and craft style homes, designed to create a welcoming outdoor space. Deep porches supported by tapered columns, brick piers, or stone bases provide comfort while giving the home a grounded, sturdy appearance.
Built-In Woodwork
Interior architectural elements such as built-in shelves, window seats, bookcases, and detailed trim are hallmarks of an Arts and Crafts home. These built-ins demonstrate craftsmanship and create a cohesive, custom-designed interior.
Earth-Tone Color Palette
The color scheme of an Arts and Crafts house typically involves warm, natural tones such as olive green, brown, terracotta, deep red, and forest green. These earthy colors help reflect the movement’s connection to nature.
Functional, Comfortable Layouts
Arts and Crafts homes feature practical floor plans that prioritize comfort, natural light, and efficient use of space. They often have open layouts or rooms that flow seamlessly, creating a warm and inviting environment.
Types of Arts and Crafts Houses
Craftsman Bungalows
These are the most well-known type of Arts and Crafts style houses, typically one or one-and-a-half stories with deep porches, exposed beams, and strong symmetry.
Prairie Style Homes
Inspired largely by Frank Lloyd Wright, Prairie-style Arts and Crafts homes emphasize horizontal lines, low roofs, and strong connections to the surrounding landscape.
Mission Revival Homes
Mission-style homes incorporate stucco, arches, and clay tile roofs, combining Spanish influences with Arts and Crafts simplicity.
British Arts and Crafts Homes
British versions often include steep roofs, decorative timbering, leaded windows, and asymmetrical facades.
Interior Design Elements of Arts and Crafts Homes
Natural Wood as a Dominant Feature
Woods like oak, walnut, and cherry are used extensively in flooring, trim, cabinetry, and furniture. Dark stains and exposed joinery showcase craftsmanship and quality.
Stone Fireplaces
Large stone fireplaces act as the focal point of the interior, reinforcing the warm, inviting feel of the home and highlighting natural materials.
Stained and Leaded Glass
Windows, light fixtures, and cabinet doors often feature stained or leaded glass with geometric patterns, reflecting the artistic side of the movement.
Handcrafted Tiles
Handmade tiles are commonly used for fireplace surrounds, bathroom walls, backsplashes, and decorative accents.
Practical Built-Ins
Built-in benches, cabinets, shelving, and buffets enhance storage while preserving the style’s emphasis on handcrafted quality.
Modern Arts and Crafts Style Homes
Today, many modern homes draw inspiration from Arts and Crafts houses but incorporate modern floor plans, larger kitchens, and updated materials. These updated designs maintain the authenticity of handcrafted details while offering modern comfort.
Modern interpretations often include open-concept spaces, simplified trim work, shaker cabinetry, engineered wood, and eco-friendly materials inspired by the original movement’s values.
Materials Commonly Used in Arts and Crafts Style Homes
Common materials include stone for fireplaces and foundations, wood siding, redwood or cedar trim, brick for accents, copper for lighting fixtures, natural tile, and handcrafted metal hardware. These materials maintain the authentic feel of the original Arts and Crafts movement.
How to Decorate an Arts and Crafts Home
Decor choices should complement the architecture’s focus on simplicity and craftsmanship. Mission-style furniture works especially well, as do handwoven rugs, pottery, wrought iron lighting fixtures, and nature-inspired artwork. Textures such as wool, leather, linen, and handcrafted textiles further emphasize natural beauty.
Why People Love Arts and Crafts Houses
Many homeowners are drawn to these homes because of their timeless aesthetic, handcrafted details, warm atmosphere, and the use of durable natural materials. An Arts and Crafts style house delivers both visual appeal and practical living comfort, making the style highly desirable for generations.
Conclusion
An Arts and Crafts home reflects a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, natural materials, and functional design. Whether exploring historic versions or modern interpretations, the distinctive features of Arts and Crafts houses continue to inspire homeowners who value quality and timeless beauty. These homes remain one of the most admired architectural styles, combining warmth, artistry, and character.
FAQs
What defines an Arts and Crafts style house?
An Arts and Crafts style house is defined by handcrafted woodwork, natural materials such as stone and wood, low-pitched roofs, and simple, functional design elements. Its aesthetic emphasizes authenticity, craftsmanship, and harmony with nature.
Are Arts and Crafts homes the same as Craftsman homes?
Craftsman homes are a specific American branch of the broader Arts and Crafts movement, so the styles share many similarities. All Craftsman homes are Arts and Crafts style, but not all Arts and Crafts homes are Craftsman.
What materials are commonly used in Arts and Crafts houses?
Typical materials include natural wood, stone, brick, handcrafted tiles, copper, and heavy timber beams. These natural and durable materials reflect the movement’s emphasis on craftsmanship and authenticity.
Are Arts and Crafts homes still built today?
Yes, modern builders frequently design new homes inspired by Arts and Crafts architecture, incorporating traditional elements like natural wood details while adapting layouts for contemporary living. These modern versions continue the movement’s focus on craftsmanship and simplicity.
