American Craftsman Home Style – Meaning, Characteristics, Pros, & Cons

The American Craftsman style home remains a popular choice for homeowners today as it did when it originated over a century ago. It has been called many names: American Craftsman house, Craftsman-style house, or Arts and Crafts style. It is an architectural design that originated in the late 19th century and early 20th centuries.

You might not be really familiar with the name of the home style, but the appearance is one you’d surely recognize. It carries a simple yet solid-looking square-shaped home, with a covered front porch and beams supporting a V-shaped roof. This home style can be found all over the country but with a particularly large presence in the West or Midwest region.

Here is all you should know about this popular home style, including its characteristics, pros, and cons. So, without taking too much of your time, let’s dive right into it.

What makes a house craftsman style?

A Craftsman house is a home that emphasizes horizontal lines, handcrafted details, and natural materials. This is evident in the use of woodworking elements (which include but are not limited to exposed beams, built-in cabinetry, decorative trim, etc). The interior of this popular home style often features an open floor plan, a large fireplace (or more than one), and an abundance of large windows to bring natural light into the home.

What are the characteristics of the American craftsman home?

Here are some of the key features or characteristics of the Craftsman-style home;

• low-pitched gabled or hip roofs with wide overhanging eaves
• Exposed rafters and decorative brackets, which are usually under the eaves and inside the house
• Multi-pane or sash windows
• Wide and open front porches that are held up by signature thick tapered columns
• Painted wood siding, traditionally cedar shaker shingles
• Often, stones or stucco accents are used for both interior and exterior
• Earth-tone painting, often brown and green color
• One to two stories tall
• Symmetrical or asymmetrical home design
• Unique custom-made features, such as window seats and countertops

What are the pros and cons of the American Craftsman home style?

Pros

1. Timeless aesthetics

One of the main reasons why this home style remains as popular today as it did when it originated over a century ago is because of its timeless aesthetics. This home style boosts a timeless aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of natural materials and craftsmanship. The simple lines, handcrafted details, and earth-tone colors help to create a beautiful, warm, and inviting atmosphere or environment.

2. Connection to nature

The American craftsman home features and appreciates natural elements or materials, such as wood, stone, and brick. This allows the home to blend harmoniously with its surroundings. Additionally, the large windows used in this home style allows for natural light and views, all of which promote a strong connection to nature.

3. Quality craftsmanship

As I mentioned earlier, the American craftsman’s home style is renowned for its superior craftsmanship. The attention to detail and meticulous usage of high-quality materials will therefore result in a home that will age gracefully, withstanding the test of time.

4. Versatility in design

The American craftsman home style offers versatility in design for the homeowner. It accommodates various preferences and preferences in architectural details. So, whichever architectural needs you may have, the Craftsman-style houses hold many options to suit your needs and tastes.

Cons

1. High maintenance needs

Since this home style emphasizes natural materials, the maintenance needs tend to be higher. The wood exterior and intricate detailing used will need regular upkeep, which includes painting and refinishing to preserve the beauty and withstand the test of time.

2. Space constraints

The American craftsman home may have smaller room sizes and limited storage space when compared to other home styles, like the Modern or the Contemporary home style. Large families may find the craftsman-style home less suitable unless extensive modifications are made.

3. Lack of modern amenities

Many American Craftsman homes will lack many modern amenities that many homeowners expect in a home. This includes but is not limited to large walk-in closets, en-suite bathrooms, or spacious kitchens. Renovation, however, can be done, but this may compromise the home’s original charm.

FAQs

What is a Craftsman house made of?

A Craftsman’s house can be made from various natural materials like wood, shakes, and stone.

Is maintenance and repair costly in a Craftsman house?

The American Craftsman home is known for its durability, but even if it requires upkeep or maintenance, that can be costly.

Are Craftsman homes durable?

Yes, they are. They are built with sturdy materials that ensure they stand the test of time.

Who invented the American Craftsman home style?

Popular furniture maker Gustav Stickley appropriated this home style.

Conclusion – Is the American Craftsman home worth it?

The American craftsman home remains a popular choice even up to date because of its appealing aesthetics and durability. It is comfortable, fully functional, and environmentally friendly. If these are traits that appeal to you, your lifestyle, your family, and the lifestyle of your family, then it is definitely worth it.

That said, the American Craftsman home is not really for everyone. Other home styles may be better suited for you and your family, so it is often best to discuss this with your architect before the project commences.

At Samkins Construction Lnc, we do our best to meet the needs of our clients while still staying on budget. We pride ourselves in delivering the best possible there is. Get in touch now let’s get your dream home built.

Thanks for reading.