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Explore American Craftsman interior styling

Table of contents

Introduction

American Craftsman style of interior design has been around for over a century and is still popular today. It emerged as a rebellion against the industrialization that swept across the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This movement emphasizes craftsmanship, natural materials, and simple yet elegant designs. In this article, we will delve into the history, key features, and practical tips for incorporating American Craftsman style into your home.

History

The American Craftsman style began in the late 1800s as a response to the Industrial Revolution. People were seeking a return to simpler times and handcrafted goods. The movement was also influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement in England, which emphasized traditional craftsmanship and rejected mass production. The American Craftsman style flourished during the early 1900s and reached its peak during the first quarter of the 20th century. This style was particularly popular in California, where architects like Charles and Henry Greene and Bernard Maybeck designed homes that featured handcrafted woodwork, exposed beams, and natural materials.

In England the movement was also influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, again which emphasized traditional craftsmanship and rejected mass production. The English movement was led by John Ruskin and William Morris, who sought to revive traditional skills and techniques in the production of furniture, textiles, and other decorative arts.

In the United States, the Craftsman movement was championed by architects and designers who shared these values. The movement began in the 1890s and reached its peak during the first quarter of the 20th century. One of the most prominent figures in the American Craftsman movement was Gustav Stickley, who founded the magazine "The Craftsman" in 1901. The magazine promoted the ideals of the movement, emphasizing simplicity, functionality, and the use of natural materials.

Stickley also designed furniture that embodied these ideals, including his famous Morris chair, which was based on a design by William Morris. The chair featured a simple, functional design, with exposed joints and natural materials.

Another influential architect in the Craftsman movement was Charles Sumner Greene, who along with his brother Henry Mather Greene, designed homes that featured handcrafted woodwork, exposed beams, and natural materials. The Greene brothers' work helped to define the California Craftsman style, which emphasized a connection to the natural environment and a rejection of the ornate styles popular at the time.

Bernard Maybeck was another prominent figure in the Craftsman movement. He designed homes that blended Arts and Crafts elements with the emerging modernist style, creating a unique hybrid that emphasized simplicity, functionality, and the use of natural materials.

The American Craftsman movement declined in popularity during the 1920s and 1930s, as the country shifted towards a more modernist aesthetic. However, the movement continued to influence designers and architects in the decades that followed, and today, Craftsman-style homes and furnishings remain popular among homeowners who value simplicity, craftsmanship, and a connection to the natural world.

The American Craftsman interior design style is primarily found in the United States, particularly in the Northeast and Midwest regions. This is because the style originated in the United States in the late 19th century as a reaction against the mass-produced, machine-made goods of the Industrial Revolution.

However, the style also gained popularity in other countries, such as Canada and England, where it was influenced by the British Arts and Crafts movement. In Canada, the style was known as the Canadian Craftsman style, and it was popular in the early 20th century.

Today, the American Craftsman style can be found in homes and buildings around the world, as the style's emphasis on natural materials, clean lines, and functional design has continued to resonate with homeowners and designers alike. However, it is still most commonly associated with the United States, where it originated and where it remains a popular interior design style.

Design Elements

American Craftsman interior design style is characterized by its emphasis on simplicity, functionality, and the use of natural materials. Here are some of the key elements that contribute to this style.

The American Craftsman style is characterized by its emphasis on natural materials, simplicity, and functionality. Here are some of the key features of this style:

Key Features

  1. Woodwork: The woodwork in Craftsman-style homes is often the centerpiece of the design. Built-in cabinets, shelves, and bookcases are common, as are exposed beams and trusses.

  2. Natural Materials: Craftsman-style homes use natural materials like wood, stone, and brick. These materials are often left in their natural state, with little or no decoration.

  3. Simple Design: Craftsman-style homes are known for their simple, clean lines. The focus is on functionality and craftsmanship, rather than elaborate decoration.

  4. Earthy Colors: Craftsman-style homes typically feature earthy colors like brown, green, and beige. These colors reflect the natural materials used in the design.

  5. Handcrafted Details: Craftsman-style homes often feature handcrafted details like leaded glass windows, copper light fixtures, and custom tile work.

Furniture: American Craftsman furniture is typically handcrafted and made from natural materials such as wood, leather, and metal. The design of the furniture is often simple and functional, with exposed joints and visible craftsmanship. Pieces like the Morris chair, rocking chairs, and built-in bookcases are common features in Craftsman-style interiors.

Woodwork: Craftsman-style homes often feature intricate woodwork, including exposed beams, paneling, and trim. The woodwork is typically made from natural woods like oak, maple, and cherry and is often left unfinished or stained to highlight the natural beauty of the wood.

 

Textiles: The use of textiles in Craftsman interiors is typically minimal, but when used, they are often made from natural fibres like wool, cotton, or linen. Textiles are typically muted in colour and feature simple patterns or no pattern at all.

Artwork: Craftsman interiors often feature artwork that reflects the natural world, such as landscapes, botanical prints, or artwork featuring animals. The artwork is typically displayed in simple frames made from natural materials like wood or metal.

Colour: The colour palette in Craftsman-style interiors is typically muted, with colours that reflect the natural world. Colours like olive green, deep reds, browns, and muted blues are commonly used. White is also used as an accent colour to help brighten up the space.

Window treatments: Craftsman-style homes often feature simple window treatments, such as curtains or shades made from natural materials like linen or cotton. The treatments are typically minimal and functional, with little to no embellishments or frills.

Lighting: Craftsman-style interiors feature lighting that is simple and functional. Light fixtures are typically made from natural materials like wood or metal and feature simple designs with little ornamentation.

Built-ins: Craftsman-style homes often feature built-in furniture, such as bookcases, benches, and storage units. These built-ins are typically made from the same natural materials as the rest of the interior and are designed to be functional and space-saving.

Fireplaces: Craftsman-style homes often feature fireplaces with handcrafted mantels and intricate tile work. The fireplaces are typically the focal point of the room and are designed to be functional and beautiful.

Overall, the American Craftsman interior design style emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and the use of natural materials. The style is timeless and continues to be popular among homeowners who value craftsmanship and a connection to the natural world.

Modern Interpretations

Modern designers often incorporate elements of American Craftsman interior design into their modern interior design style to create a warm and inviting space that emphasizes natural materials and craftsmanship. Here are some ways that modern designers incorporate American Craftsman into their modern interior design.

Simplified furniture: Modern designers often take the simple and functional design of American Craftsman furniture and update it with modern materials and shapes. For example, a modern designer might use sleek metal or concrete to create a simple, functional desk that still retains the warmth and craftsmanship of American Craftsman furniture.

Natural materials: Modern designers often use natural materials like wood, stone, and metal to create a connection to the natural world. They might incorporate reclaimed wood into a modern kitchen or use natural stone tiles in a modern bathroom to create a warm and inviting space.

Neutral colors: While American Craftsman interiors typically feature muted, natural colors, modern designers might use a more neutral color palette to create a minimalist and contemporary look. For example, a modern designer might use shades of white, gray, and black to create a clean and sophisticated space that still retains the warmth of American Craftsman design.

Mixed textures: Modern designers often mix textures and materials to create a space that is both visually interesting and comfortable. For example, they might combine a plush wool rug with a sleek metal coffee table or a rustic wooden bookcase with a modern leather sofa.

Artistic details: American Craftsman interiors often feature intricate details and handcrafted elements. Modern designers might incorporate artistic details like hand-painted tiles or hand-blown glass light fixtures to add personality and warmth to a modern space.

Built-ins: Built-in furniture is a hallmark of American Craftsman interior design. Modern designers might incorporate built-ins like shelving units or benches to create a space-saving solution that still retains the warmth and craftsmanship of American Craftsman design.

Light fixtures: American Craftsman interior design often features simple, functional light fixtures that are made from natural materials like wood or metal. Modern designers might update these fixtures with modern shapes or materials, while still retaining the simple and functional design of American Craftsman lighting.

Overall, modern designers often incorporate elements of American Craftsman interior design into their modern interior design style to create a space that is warm, inviting, and connected to the natural world. By updating traditional design elements with modern materials and shapes, modern designers are able to create a space that is both timeless and contemporary.

Modern Craftsman Design Elements

Here is a list of what makes up the modern American Craftsman interior design style.

Furniture: Modern American Craftsman furniture is typically made from natural materials like wood, metal, and leather. The style emphasizes simple, functional designs with clean lines and a focus on craftsmanship. Popular furniture pieces include sofas, chairs, tables, and storage units.

Artwork: American Craftsman interior design often incorporates artwork that features natural motifs like flowers, trees, and wildlife. Modern designers may use paintings, photographs, or prints to add visual interest to a space.

Colors: Modern American Craftsman interior design typically features a neutral color palette with muted, earthy tones. Popular colors include beige, brown, gray, and green. Bold accent colors like red, yellow, or blue may also be used in moderation.

Window treatments: American Craftsman interiors often feature simple window treatments like wooden blinds or curtains made from natural fibers like linen or cotton. These treatments allow plenty of natural light into a space while providing privacy and insulation.

Lighting: Lighting is an important element in American Craftsman interior design. Modern designers may use a variety of lighting fixtures to create a warm, inviting space. Popular options include pendant lights, table lamps, and wall sconces.

Textiles: American Craftsman interior design often incorporates natural textiles like wool, cotton, and leather. Modern designers may use these materials to create cozy throw blankets, accent pillows, or upholstered furniture.

Accessories: Accessories are an important element of American Craftsman interior design. Modern designers may use decorative items like pottery, vases, or candle holders to add visual interest to a space. Textured rugs, woven baskets, and natural wood accents are also popular.

Built-ins: Built-in furniture is a hallmark of American Craftsman interior design. Modern designers may incorporate built-ins like bookcases, storage units, or window seats to maximize space and add visual interest to a room.

Details: American Craftsman interior design is known for its attention to detail. Modern designers may incorporate handcrafted elements like carved wood trim or hand-painted tiles to add visual interest and personality to a space.

 

Overall, modern American Craftsman interior design is a warm, inviting style that emphasizes natural materials, simple designs, and a focus on craftsmanship. By incorporating traditional design elements with modern materials and shapes, modern designers are able to create a space that is both timeless and contemporary.

American Craftsman Noted Designers

some notable interior designers who incorporate American Craftsman interior design style in their work.

Joanna Gaines

Joanna Gaines is a well-known interior designer who is known for her use of American Craftsman style in her designs. She often incorporates rustic wood accents, neutral colour palettes, and cozy textiles in her spaces.

Check out our write-up on Joanna > here.

Nate Berkus

Nate Berkus is a renowned interior designer who has a talent for blending traditional design elements with modern touches. He often incorporates American Craftsman furniture and accessories into his designs to add warmth and character to a space.

Check out our write-up on Nate > here.

Candice Olson

Candice Olson is a popular interior designer who is known for her ability to create comfortable and functional spaces with a touch of luxury. She often incorporates American Craftsman furniture and textiles into her designs to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Check out our write-up on Candice > here.

Frank Lloyd Wright

Although he is primarily known as an architect, Frank Lloyd Wright's designs often incorporated American Craftsman elements like handcrafted wood details and built-in furniture. His designs continue to influence modern American Craftsman interior design today.

Check out our write-up on Frank > here.

Sarah Richardson

Sarah Richardson is a Canadian interior designer who is known for her eclectic style and use of vintage and antique pieces. She often incorporates American Craftsman elements like built-in shelving and wood paneling in her designs.

Check out our write-up on Sarah > here.

These designers are just a few examples of the many talented professionals who incorporate American Craftsman interior design style in their work. By blending traditional elements with modern touches, they create beautiful and inviting spaces that are both timeless and contemporary.

American Craftsman Products

Where can you find American Craftsman products?

So now you want to find some products in the American Craftsman style. Here is a list of some notable brands that incorporate American Craftsman interior design style with their products.

Stickley - Stickley is a well-known American furniture brand that specializes in American Craftsman-style furniture. Their products are made with high-quality materials and feature clean lines, simple designs, and a focus on craftsmanship.

Crate & Barrel - Crate & Barrel is a popular home goods retailer that offers a wide range of American Craftsman-inspired products. Their furniture, textiles, and accessories often feature natural materials and muted color palettes.

Pottery Barn - Pottery Barn is another popular home goods retailer that offers a wide range of American Craftsman-inspired products. Their furniture, lighting, and decor often feature natural materials and simple, functional designs.

West Elm - West Elm is a modern home goods retailer that offers a wide range of American Craftsman-inspired products. Their furniture, textiles, and accessories often feature clean lines and natural materials like wood and leather.

Restoration Hardware - Restoration Hardware is a luxury home goods retailer that offers a wide range of American Craftsman-inspired products. Their furniture, lighting, and decor often feature natural materials like wood and stone, and their designs are known for their simplicity and elegance.

L.L. Bean - L.L. Bean is a popular outdoor retailer that offers a wide range of American Craftsman-inspired products. Their furniture and decor often feature natural materials like wood and wool, and their designs are known for their durability and functionality.

Rejuvenation - Rejuvenation is a home goods retailer that specializes in American Craftsman-inspired lighting and hardware. Their products often feature handcrafted details and a focus on quality materials.

These brands are just a few examples of the many companies that incorporate American Craftsman interior design style in their products. By offering high-quality materials, simple designs, and a focus on craftsmanship, they provide customers with beautiful and functional products that are both timeless and contemporary.

Some good Australian websites that sell American Craftsman products are;

  1. Zanui.com.au - offers a range of home furniture and décor, including items that would fit in with the American Craftsman style.

  2. Templeandwebster.com.au - features furniture, home décor, and lighting with a focus on modern and classic designs, including those inspired by American Craftsman style.

  3. Hardtofind.com.au - a marketplace that specializes in selling unique and handmade items, including American Craftsman-style furniture and home décor.

  4. Livingstyles.com.au - offers a range of furniture, lighting, and home décor products inspired by different styles, including the American Craftsman style.

  5. Ozdesignfurniture.com.au - features furniture and home décor inspired by different design styles, including the American Craftsman style.

  6. Brosa.com.au - offers a range of furniture and home décor products with a focus on modern and classic designs, including those inspired by the American Craftsman style.

  7. Earlysettler.com.au - features furniture, home décor, and accessories with a focus on classic and timeless designs, including those influenced by American Craftsman style.

  8. Satara.com.au - offers a range of furniture and home décor products inspired by different styles, including the American Craftsman style.

  9. Theblockshop.com.au - a marketplace that specializes in selling home furniture, décor, and accessories, including those with American Craftsman influences.

  10. Designinitial.com.au - offers a range of furniture and home décor products inspired by different styles, including the American Craftsman style.

American Craftsman Inspiration

These websites are just a few examples of the many resources available for those who are interested in the American Craftsman style. By providing design inspiration, product recommendations, and resources for restoration and maintenance, they help homeowners and designers create beautiful and authentic Craftsman-style spaces.

Here is an exhaustive list of websites that cater to American Craftsman interior design:

  1. Houzz: Houzz is a popular website that offers a wide range of design inspiration and resources. They have a large selection of American Craftsman-inspired photos, articles, and products to help users create their own Craftsman-style spaces.

  2. Arts & Crafts Homes: Arts & Crafts Homes is a website that focuses specifically on the American Craftsman style. They offer articles, resources, and products for homeowners and designers who are interested in creating authentic Craftsman-style spaces.

  3. American Bungalow Magazine: American Bungalow Magazine is a publication that features articles and resources for those who are interested in the American Craftsman style. They offer design inspiration, product recommendations, and resources for restoring and maintaining Craftsman homes.

  4. The Craftsman Bungalow Store: The Craftsman Bungalow Store is an online retailer that specializes in Craftsman-style furniture, lighting, and accessories. They offer high-quality products that are made with traditional techniques and materials.

  5. The Arts & Crafts Society: The Arts & Crafts Society is a nonprofit organization that focuses on promoting the American Craftsman style. They offer resources for homeowners, designers, and collectors, including a directory of Craftsman-style resources and events.

  6. Gamble House: The Gamble House is a historic Craftsman-style home in Pasadena, California. Their website offers information about the history of the home, as well as resources for those who are interested in learning more about the American Craftsman style.

  7. Etsy: Etsy is an online marketplace that offers a wide range of handmade and vintage products. They have a large selection of American Craftsman-inspired furniture, textiles, and accessories, as well as a community of makers who specialize in the style.

Here is an some other places where you can get design inspiration for American Craftsman interior design style:

  1. Historic Craftsman homes: Historic Craftsman homes, such as the Gamble House or the Gustav Stickley House, provide an authentic look at the American Craftsman style. Visiting these homes or viewing photos of them can provide inspiration for furniture, decor, and color schemes.

  2. American Craftsman furniture: American Craftsman furniture, such as pieces from Stickley or Roycroft, can provide inspiration for how to incorporate the style into a home. Examining the materials, details, and construction of these pieces can help inform choices for furniture and decor.

  3. Arts & Crafts shows and fairs: Attending Arts & Crafts shows and fairs, such as the annual Arts & Crafts Conference in Asheville, North Carolina, can provide inspiration for how to incorporate the American Craftsman style into a home. Vendors at these events often sell furniture, lighting, and decor that is inspired by the style.

  4. Online design resources: Online design resources, such as Houzz, Pinterest, and Instagram, offer a wealth of inspiration for American Craftsman interior design. These sites feature photos of real homes, as well as articles and product recommendations.

  5. Books and magazines: Books and magazines that focus on the American Craftsman style, such as American Bungalow Magazine or The Furniture of Gustav Stickley, can provide inspiration for furniture, decor, and color schemes.

  6. Nature: The American Craftsman style is inspired by nature, so incorporating natural elements into a home, such as wood, stone, or plants, can help create an authentic Craftsman-style space.

  7. Local Craftsman homes: Many communities have historic Craftsman homes that can provide inspiration for the style. Taking a walk or drive through a local historic district can offer ideas for color schemes, architecture, and landscaping.

These are just a few examples of the many places where someone may get design inspiration for American Craftsman interior design style. By studying historic homes and furniture, attending shows and fairs, and exploring online resources, homeowners and designers can create beautiful and authentic Craftsman-style spaces.

Contemporary Craftsman Design

Here are a few examples of how designers incorporate small elements of American Craftsman interior design style into a more contemporary design:

Furniture: One way to incorporate Craftsman-style elements into a more contemporary design is to use Craftsman-style furniture. For example, a modern living room with clean lines and neutral colors could be transformed by adding a Craftsman-style coffee table or armchair. The unique shapes and natural materials of these pieces can provide a striking contrast to the modern elements in the room.

Lighting: Another way to incorporate Craftsman-style elements is through lighting. A contemporary dining room with minimal decor could be given a Craftsman touch by adding a chandelier with stained glass or wrought iron details. This creates a focal point in the room and adds warmth and texture.

Color: Color is another key element in American Craftsman interior design style. Incorporating just a few Craftsman-inspired colors, such as deep greens, rich browns, or warm oranges, into a more modern color palette can create a unique look. For example, a minimalist bedroom with white walls and bedding could be transformed by adding a deep green throw or accent pillow.

Patterns: The use of patterns is another way to incorporate Craftsman-style elements into a contemporary design. Adding a rug with a geometric pattern or using wallpaper with a stylized floral design can provide an interesting contrast to a more modern space.

Artwork: Craftsman-style artwork, such as prints or paintings of nature scenes, can also be used to add a touch of the style to a contemporary design. A large canvas print of a forest or a framed print of a mountain range can provide a focal point in a modern living room or bedroom.

By incorporating just a few small elements of American Craftsman interior design style into a more contemporary design, designers can create a unique and personalized space that reflects their clients' tastes and preferences. The key is to balance the traditional elements with more modern design elements, creating a cohesive and harmonious look.

Practical Tips & Must Haves

Practical Tips:

If you're looking to incorporate American Craftsman style into your home, here are some practical tips:

  1. Use natural materials: Look for furniture and decor made from natural materials like wood, leather, and stone.

  2. Keep it simple: Avoid overly ornate or decorative pieces. Focus on clean lines and functionality.

  3. Choose earthy colors: Use colors that reflect the natural world, like brown, green, and beige.

  4. Incorporate handcrafted details: Look for pieces with handcrafted details like leaded glass or custom tile work.

  5. Add woodwork: Consider adding built-in cabinets, shelves, or bookcases to your home. Exposed beams and trusses can also add to the Craftsman-style feel.

If I could only incorporate three design elements of American Craftsman interior design style, I would choose the following:

  1. Natural Materials: The use of natural materials is a key element of American Craftsman interior design style. Incorporating wood, stone, and other natural materials into the design can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. For example, adding a wooden coffee table or stone fireplace can add a rustic touch to a contemporary living room.

  2. Earthy Colors: Another important design element of American Craftsman interior design style is the use of earthy colors. Colors such as deep greens, warm browns, and rich oranges can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. By incorporating just a few of these colors into the design, such as through accent pillows or a throw rug, you can add a Craftsman touch to a contemporary space.

3.  Handcrafted Details: The third design element that I would choose is handcrafted details. Craftsman-style furniture and decor often feature handcrafted details such as intricate woodwork or stained glass. Adding just one or two pieces with these details, such as a handcrafted wooden bench or a stained glass lamp, can add a unique touch to a contemporary space and create a sense of history and craftsmanship.

By incorporating these three design elements, I would be able to create a space that has the warm and inviting feel of American Craftsman interior design style while still maintaining a contemporary aesthetic.

Similar Styles to American Craftsman

American Craftsman interior design style has many similarities to other design styles, both contemporary and traditional. Here are some of the interior design styles that share similarities with American Craftsman:

Arts and Crafts: The Arts and Crafts movement was a design style that emerged in the late 19th century and emphasized traditional craftsmanship and natural materials. American Craftsman design was heavily influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, and the two styles share many design elements.

Rustic: Rustic interior design style is characterized by the use of natural materials such as wood, stone, and leather. American Craftsman design also incorporates natural materials, and both styles emphasize warmth and comfort.

Mission: Mission interior design style emerged in the early 20th century and was influenced by the Spanish missions of California. Mission-style homes often feature simple, clean lines and natural materials such as wood and stone. American Craftsman design shares many of these characteristics and is sometimes referred to as Mission-style.

Rustic style

Prairie: Prairie-style interior design emerged in the early 20th century and was popularized by architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The style emphasizes horizontal lines, natural materials, and an open floor plan. American Craftsman design shares many of these characteristics, and the two styles are sometimes used interchangeably.

Shaker: The Shaker design style emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and minimalism. American Craftsman design shares many of these characteristics and also emphasizes the use of natural materials and craftsmanship.

Mid-Century Modern: Mid-century modern interior design style emerged in the 1950s and 1960s and emphasizes clean lines, simplicity, and functionality. While the two styles may seem very different, there are some similarities, particularly in their use of natural materials and craftsmanship.

While each of these interior design styles has its own unique characteristics and history, they share many similarities with American Craftsman interior design style. These similarities make it easy to mix and match different styles to create a unique and personalized space that reflects the tastes and preferences of the homeowner.

Conclusion:

American Craftsman style of interior design has stood the test of time and continues to be a popular choice for homeowners today. This style emphasizes natural materials, simplicity, and functionality, and is characterized by its handcrafted details and woodwork. If you're looking to incorporate this style into your home, focus on natural materials, earthy colors, and handcrafted details. Keep it simple, and let the craftsmanship speak for itself. With a little effort, you can create a warm and inviting space that embodies the spirit of the American Craftsman movement.

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