In the early 20th century, architects such as Gustav Stickley began to design simple, rustic Craftsman homes. These modest, unpretentious houses, mostly bungalows, were nice and affordable residences. Some were even sold by mail-order kit. Craftsman homes were especially prevalent in California, but they were and continue to be popular throughout the United States. Does this Spark an idea?
History
Craftsman homes first became popular in the United States during the arts and crafts movement of the early 20th century. The home style gets its name from a magazine published by Gustav Stickley, one of the movement's founders, called "The Craftsman."
Architectural Style
Craftsman homes display a return to a simpler, more modest style of architectural design. They are relatively small and intimate, with low, gabled roofs with large overhangs, and wide front porches anchored by tapering posts.
Interior Woodwork
Craftsman homes display beautiful interior woodwork, with wood trim and built-in cabinetry and shelving, in keeping with the arts and crafts movement's emphasis on more carefully crafted, less mass-produced workmanship.
Less Formal Space
Rather than opening into a formal front hall, Craftsman homes' front doors opened straight into the living room. Craftsman homes offered comfortable and informal living spaces for families, all within a relatively small area.
Craftsman Homes Today
Craftsman homes, both original and new models, remain appealing to many home buyers, for the same reasons they appealed back in the early 20th century.
Tags: Craftsman homes, 20th century, Craftsman homes, early 20th, early 20th century, arts crafts