Combining integrity in design with a high level of craftsmanship is the fundamental principle of Craftsman style. The emphasis on simplicity and workmanship is a natural fit for the design and construction of landscape structures. A wooden garden gate in the Craftsman style visually connects the outdoor environment with the architecture of the house. Does this Spark an idea?
Craftsman Style
Craftsman style has its roots in the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 1800s, which was a reaction to introduction of mass production in the Industrial Revolution and the contrived nature of much of the design in the Victorian era. Arts and Crafts emphasized authentic materials and craftsmanship in a variety of design applications. Craftsman style evolved from the Arts and Crafts tradition, and is characterized by simplicity, function and skilled workmanship.
Craftsman Characteristics
American Craftsman style often reflects the simplicity of Shaker and Japanese design, with clean lines and natural materials chosen to harmonize with the setting. Structures are pleasing in scale, and present welcoming facades. In practice, Craftsman-style is associated with timber frame construction, exposed beams, rafters, and rafter ends, dormer windows and hip roofs. Combining materials such as wood, metal, glass and stone is another hallmark of the style. Unnecessary decoration is avoided in the Craftsman style.
Craftsman-Style Garden Gates
A Craftsman-style wood gate should be simple in design, but constructed with a high level of skill. Post and beam construction is a classic Craftsman construction method. Gate design can repeat elements of a Craftsman house, such as an overhead roof or trellis with an exposed frame, but a simple, modestly scaled gate may be more suited to the ideals of the style. Consider incorporating a stone path or place an ornament near the gate to build on the theme.
Craftsman-Style Gate Construction
Choose water-resistant wood such as cedar or redwood rather than pressure-treated wood, and construct the gate with careful joinery detailing. Consider special techniques such as mortise-and-tenon or dovetail joints for wood members, to highlight craftsmanship. Pay special attention to the hardware for the gate, using heavy-duty, high-quality metals for hinges and latches, to complement the wood. Combine other materials as well, such as a stained glass window for a full-length gate, to add a distinctive detail.
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