Craftsman House Definition

Types

• American Craftsman homes from the late 19th century up to about 1930 (when Craftsman houses fell out of favor) typically came in bungalow and cottage types. They feature simple and sturdy craftsmanship and are well known for durability. This is because the builders of that era were instructed to use extremely well-made, yet simple, components. These included windows, interior woodwork and doors.

Exteriors

• The bungalow is the most common Craftsman house seen in the United States. Their exteriors are characterized by overhanging roofs that feature exposed, but finished, eaves. They also feature low-pitched rooflines that lead down to extended types of gables which sit just before and over covered porches. Under the porch overhangs may be three or more windows at the front. Simple and elegant window placements are a common touch of most any Craftsman house.

Interiors

• Builders of the era, in obeying the architects specializing in Craftsman design, used as much local product as they could. Craftsmen could often produce sturdy, high quality interior woodwork at a lower prices, as well. Craftsman house interior layouts also tended to be open and flowing from one room to another. Typically, they comprise one-and-a-half-stories, with a large master bedroom in the upper half. Most bungalow types also come with open basements.

Considerations

• The vast majority of Craftsman houses are found in California. They range from about 800 square feet up to 2,500 square feet. Because they were solidly built, many fine examples have survived well into the 21st century. Also, many Craftsman house designs are available for those wanting to build new ones.