Craftsman-style home
Craftsman homes, also called California bungalows, were characteristic of the Arts and Crafts architectural movement. Low, modest homes with broad front porches and a gabled roof form the trademark of this style. Does this Spark an idea?
Origin
The Arts and Crafts movement inspired architectural style and furniture design in the early twentieth century. The name itself is derived from Gustav Stickley's design magazine, "The Craftsman." With an emphasis on function and use of local materials, the craftsman style garnered many enthusiasts at the height of its nationwide popularity from 1905 to 1930.
Exterior
Stone and stucco building materials were chosen for a naturalistic effect, as craftsman homes were meant to blend in aesthetically with any landscape. Tapered square columns supported a wide, low porch topped by a single gabled roof, sometimes punctuated by a solitary dormer window. The wide eaves and distinctive deep porch make the craftsman style highly recognizable.
Floor Plan
Usually one-story, some craftsman homes have an attic or one bedroom upstairs with a single dormer over the porch roof. The floor plan was open with an efficient appointment of space.
Interior
Craftsman homes have many built-in cabinets with glass doors, particularly in the dining room. Bookshelves are also built into the walls. Arts and Crafts style light fixtures are characteristic of the craftsman home, as well as open wood beams. Some craftsman dwellings feature stained glass windows.
Popularity
Craftsman homes regained some popularity with home buyers and architects in the 1990s. Those seeking to remodel or refurbish homes with period character gravitated toward this style. Many craftsman home plans are available for those wishing to build a new home in this style.
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