Craftsman style is best summed up by one word: wood. Lots and lots of wood. Interior characteristics may include plenty of exposed wood and fireplaces. In the past, this style has been associated with farmhouses, cottages and cabins (even “moose lodges”), but it’s in more home designs than you might think.

A craftsman style home has specific structural and cosmetic elements. Dormer windows, for instance, as well decorative attic vents, and stone chimneys. The rustic feel has, unfortunately, come to be associated in some circles with older style homes, due to overusing wood or even 1970s wood paneling.

But…

Craftsman style is back! No longer is it stuffy or conservative, because it’s got some new twists and techniques.

Open Up!

If you want to incorporate craftsman style simply, then look no further than open concept using wood. Clear out some walls  to open your home up and add as much or as little wood as your tastes prefer. Think about wooden staircase, railings, door/window frames, floor, exposed beams, vertical joists, wood wainscoting, and so on.

Exposed Ceilings

Not everyone looks up when they enter a home. That will change when you give them something to look at that’s not a plain central light fixture, track lighting, or even a crystal chandelier that looks like it belonged in the ‘80s soap opera Dynasty. Show off exposed and stunning wood beams, rafters, and joists. These are key elements of craftsman style. Not only do they make the entire room look great (boring ceilings are just that), you’ll also make your home seem much larger.

Built-Ins

Some elements of craftsman style never go out of favor. Hardwood comes and goes, except when it comes to built-in woodwork. Think bookcases, shelves, and window seats. Just adding these elements to a modern home can be enough to provide a classic, yet modern, touch.

Natural Earth Tones

You don’t have to go overboard with wood every time to create craftsman style. You just need earth tones to make your home feel welcoming, comfortable and warm. Textured earth tones on the walls – especially faux finishes and Venetian plaster – go a long way to creating a soft and rustic impression, as do natural finishes to any wood you do have.

Fireplaces

Craftsman style in a home typically includes a fireplace, centrally located as a focal point. Does it have to be wood burning? Electric? Or even working? No, not at all. It simply has to be there and be seen. Maybe renovate your fireplace with an updated stone or wood surround. Or else add a modern touch with a new gas insert.

Glass

Large windows throughout a home, combined with wood and stone features, sure help enhance the craftsman look and tones. Forget filtering the light; create a bright home full of natural light. Well, maybe a little filtering… decorative stained glass is a great touch for accent windows, clerestory windows, door panels and more.

Decorative Finishes

Add a modern touch to decorative finishes. Remember that craftsman doesn’t necessarily have to look homemade or “artsy and craftsy”. It can be slick, sharp and cutting edge. Find some interesting ways to incorporate bijou window panels into doorways, along with some laser-carved wood. These can add that unique nouveau touch while tipping the hat to the old days.

The decorative aspect doesn’t stop there, either. Talk to your design team about new textured wallpaper, intricate stenciling, and some textiles to up the artistic level.

Craftsman style can be a dominating motif throughout your home or it can be a subtle accent with a 21^st century twist. The choice is yours. More design ideas for remodeling or building your home are only a phone call or email away.

Greg Nelson is the owner of Nelson Construction & Renovations Inc. He is a Florida State Certified Building Contractor, creating artistry in all areas of design and construction projects. He is a musician, and artist. A husband and father, Greg appreciates all the wonderful elements of family life.

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