“Without craftsmanship, inspiration is a mere reed shaken in the wind.” -Johannes Brahms

Craftsman style homes are a classic Americana home design. With strong columns, simple forms, and local materials, Craftsman style homes are a popular yet pleasant design that you can find in any neighborhood.

The Craftsman style house plan originated in the early 20th century as a response to the Victorian movement. While the Victorian style embraced over-the-top and mass-produced features showcasing the ability of the Industrial Revolution, the Craftsman movement went in the direction of appreciating hand-crafted work.

While many love the craft in Craftsman homes, there are plenty of unique and individual styles under the umbrella term.

1. Bungalow Craftsman House

The Craftsman Bungalow house found inspiration in the Craftsman architecture of the Arts and Crafts movement in the early 20th century and the bungalow style house that originated in 18th century India. By combining these two ideas, these houses have become some of the most popular styles in American neighborhoods.

Source: @rmcken via Instagram

Source: @pacificedgebuilders via Instagram

Source: @rmcken via Instagram

Source: @willowhomesbham via Instagram

These houses are low and wide, often at only a story or story-and-a-half tall. If Craftsman Bungalow houses have your interest, incorporate details like local materials such as river rock, quarried stone, shingles, stucco, or even other kinds. Large covered porches are also quite common as well as fireplaces, exposed beams, wood-crafted bookshelves, and window seats inside.

Horizontal details are also very prominent. This style is not shy to exaggeration in columns, eaves, ceiling beams, window trim, and more. The Craftsman Bungalow style truly embraces locality as well as the individual by showing off hand-made creations.