Craftsman homes have charmed homeowners for generations with their timeless appeal and distinct architectural features. These houses showcase rich character through details like exposed beams, handcrafted woodwork, and cozy front porches that welcome visitors. You’ll find that Craftsman designs blend beauty with functionality, creating spaces that feel both elegant and comfortable for everyday living.
Whether you’re dreaming of a classic bungalow, a modern interpretation, or a small Craftsman cottage, these homes offer impressive customization options to match your lifestyle. From one-story ranch styles to multi-level family homes, Craftsman architecture continues to inspire homeowners and designers alike in 2025. The thoughtful craftsmanship and attention to detail make these houses stand out in any neighborhood.
In this article, we'll cover
- 1. Incorporate earth tones for a cozy vibe
- 2. Add a modern lattice under the porch
- 3. Use coppery red accents
- 4. Try mixing grays and greens
- 5. Incorporate vintage restoration elements
- 6. Utilize open floor plans
- 7. Include built-in shelving
- 8. Use wooden trim details
- 9. Combine with stone elements for texture
- 10. Enhance with stained glass windows
- 11. Use brick or stone accents on the exterior
- 12. Try a bungalow style for simpler living
- 13. Add a fireplace for warmth
- 14. Include a sunroom or reading nook
- 15. Decorate with Arts and Crafts prints
- 16. Pick a calming, earth-toned color palette
- 17. Add window boxes for flowers
- 18. Use natural materials like wood and stone
- 19. Incorporate a front yard garden
- 20. Decorate with textured throw pillows
- 21. Include a mudroom with built-in storage
- 22. Incorporate a breakfast nook
- 23. Try dark-stained wood cabinetry
1. Incorporate earth tones for a cozy vibe
Earth tones give craftsman homes a warm, welcoming feel. Colors like rich browns, soft beiges, and muted greens blend naturally with the landscape around your home.
Try charcoal gray, navy, or taupe for exterior walls. These shades complement the natural materials often used in craftsman architecture.
Inside, add wool rugs, cotton throws, and linen pillows in earthy colors. These simple touches create layers of comfort that make your spaces feel cozy and inviting.
2. Add a modern lattice under the porch
Dressing up the space under your porch adds charm to your craftsman home. Modern lattice is a great upgrade from traditional options.
You can choose wood slats for a clean, blocky look that fits the craftsman style. Galvanized metal offers a contemporary twist while maintaining visual appeal.
For a unique approach, consider faux stone or brick skirting instead of lattice. Add some plants in front of your chosen skirting to soften the look and boost curb appeal.
3. Use coppery red accents
Coppery red tones can add warmth and character to your Craftsman home. Try copper light fixtures on your porch or entryway for a welcoming glow.
In your living room, incorporate red accent pillows or a rust-colored throw blanket on your furniture. These small touches create visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Consider copper hardware for cabinets or copper planters for your porch. These metallic accents complement the natural wood elements typical in Craftsman design.
4. Try mixing grays and greens
Gray and green make a perfect pair for Craftsman homes. You can use a soft gray for the main exterior with sage green trim around windows and doors. This combo feels both earthy and sophisticated.
Try a deeper charcoal gray with a forest green accent on porch columns or railings. These colors honor the Craftsman style’s connection to nature while keeping your home looking fresh and timeless.
5. Incorporate vintage restoration elements
Restoring a craftsman home means honoring its heritage with authentic details. You can find salvaged hardware, original light fixtures, or period-appropriate trim at architectural salvage stores.
Try to preserve original woodwork when possible or replace damaged elements with matching materials. This “happy moody” design style blends vintage charm with modern function.
Focus on restoration techniques that respect the original craftsmanship of your home. Small touches like vintage doorknobs or restored built-ins make a big difference in keeping the craftsman spirit alive.
6. Utilize open floor plans
Open floor plans are a key feature in craftsman houses. They connect your kitchen, dining area, and living room, creating a spacious feel. This layout is perfect for entertaining guests or keeping an eye on kids while cooking.
You’ll love how an open concept design allows natural light to flow through your home. It makes even smaller craftsman houses feel bigger and more welcoming. Plus, it helps family members stay connected while doing different activities.
7. Include built-in shelving
Built-in bookshelves are a classic Craftsman feature that adds both function and charm to your home. They make great use of wall space while showing off your personality through displayed items.
You can create built-ins around fireplaces, in hallway nooks, or along living room walls. Many DIYers have completed these projects for around $300 using stock shelving from stores like Target.
The traditional Craftsman style features simple, straight lines with natural wood finishes. Adding glass doors to your shelves creates an elegant touch while protecting books and keepsakes.
8. Use wooden trim details
Wooden trim adds warmth and character to any Craftsman home. You can use Douglas fir or pine for your trim – both work great in Craftsman designs.
Try adding wooden trim around windows, doorways, and where walls meet ceilings. This small detail makes a big difference in creating that cozy Craftsman feel.
DIY trim projects are budget-friendly and can transform plain spaces. Even simple trim styles can give your home that classic Craftsman look you love.
9. Combine with stone elements for texture
Stone elements add a beautiful contrast to the wooden features of Craftsman homes. You can use stone for porch columns, chimney facades, or foundation accents.
Try mixing different stone colors and sizes for visual interest. River rock and cut limestone are popular choices that work well with Craftsman designs.
For a modern twist, you might consider using stone veneer products that are lighter and easier to install than natural stone.
10. Enhance with stained glass windows
Stained glass windows add classic beauty to any Craftsman home. These colorful glass panels filter light in unique ways, creating a warm atmosphere inside your living spaces.
You can install stained glass in entryway doors, kitchen cabinets, or bathroom windows. Look for geometric patterns or nature-inspired designs that match the Craftsman style.
Create a cozy reading nook beneath a stained glass window with some cushions and blankets. The colored light will make your space feel special and authentically Craftsman.
11. Use brick or stone accents on the exterior
Adding brick or stone accents to your Craftsman home creates timeless charm and visual interest. These natural materials complement the straight lines and sturdy appearance typical of Craftsman architecture.
You can incorporate these elements around your porch columns, as wainscoting on the lower portion of walls, or as accent features around windows and doors. The mix of textures gives your home character while maintaining that classic Craftsman style.
12. Try a bungalow style for simpler living
Craftsman bungalows offer a charming option for those seeking a simpler lifestyle. These homes are typically one or one-and-a-half stories tall with open floor plans that make small spaces feel larger.
You’ll love the classic features like low-pitched roofs and spacious front porches that invite relaxation. These homes are perfect for narrow lots and infill properties.
Bungalows combine practicality with timeless charm through their efficient layouts and distinctive craftsman details.
13. Add a fireplace for warmth
Craftsman homes shine with the addition of a beautiful fireplace. You can choose a classic shaker style with clean lines or opt for a traditional design with lots of trim work.
Many homeowners add herringbone marble facades for an elegant touch. Some even install hidden TV compartments above the hearth for a perfect blend of function and style.
A fireplace not only warms your space but also creates a cozy gathering spot for family and friends.
14. Include a sunroom or reading nook
A sunroom adds wonderful value to your craftsman home. According to recent designs, craftsman sunrooms blend indoor comfort with outdoor views.
You can create a cozy reading nook with built-in bookshelves and a window seat. This space becomes perfect for enjoying morning coffee or evening relaxation.
Consider adding craftsman-style woodwork to your sunroom for an authentic touch. Four-season rooms let you enjoy nature year-round while maintaining the distinctive craftsman charm.
15. Decorate with Arts and Crafts prints
Arts and Crafts prints are perfect for your Craftsman home’s walls. These nature-inspired, handcrafted designs reflect the movement’s respect for skilled craftsmanship.
You can find beautiful prints featuring botanical motifs, geometric patterns, and landscape scenes. Look for work by artists who embraced the Arts and Crafts philosophy.
Display these prints in simple wooden frames to maintain that authentic Craftsman feel in your space.
16. Pick a calming, earth-toned color palette
Craftsman homes shine with warm, earthy tones that create a timeless aesthetic. You can choose muted shades that blend naturally with the landscape, like charcoal gray, navy, or taupe for the main exterior.
For a balanced look, select three tones: a neutral for the body, and complementary colors for trim and accents. Earth-tones help your home feel grounded and connected to nature.
Traditional craftsman palettes feature warm browns, deep greens, and rich burgundies. These colors honor the style’s roots while creating a welcoming, cozy feel for your home.
17. Add window boxes for flowers
Window boxes add charm and personality to your craftsman home. They bring life and color to your exterior, making your house stand out in the neighborhood.
You can build DIY window boxes from pine boards and trim, or choose low-maintenance PVC options. Mount them directly to your home for a classic craftsman touch.
Fill your window boxes with colorful flowers or evergreens like boxwoods. This simple addition creates beautiful accents that enhance your home’s character and curb appeal.
18. Use natural materials like wood and stone
Craftsman homes shine when built with natural materials. Wood and stone are perfect choices that add warmth and character to your home.
These materials connect your house to nature and create an authentic craftsman look. You’ll find that wooden trim, beams, and stone accents instantly make your home feel more inviting.
Try combining different wood tones with stone for a balanced, earthy appearance that truly captures the craftsman spirit.
19. Incorporate a front yard garden
Adding a garden to your Craftsman home’s front yard creates charm and beauty. You can use simple flower beds with native plants for a natural look.
Try adding gravel pathways through your garden to connect different areas. Water features like small ponds or fountains make lovely focal points too.
Don’t forget to include some decorative elements like stone walls or wooden fences that match your home’s style. These touches will enhance your Craftsman home’s character.
20. Decorate with textured throw pillows
Textured throw pillows are a simple way to add warmth to your craftsman home. Mix and match different fabrics like velvet, knit, or embroidered covers to create visual interest.
Try pairing solid-colored pillows with patterned ones on your sofa or bed. You can instantly change the feel of a room without spending a lot of money.
For the best look, choose pillows that complement your existing color scheme while adding a cozy, handcrafted feel that matches your craftsman style.
21. Include a mudroom with built-in storage
A craftsman house feels complete with a well-designed mudroom. You can add built-in benches with cubbies underneath for shoes and boots.
Wall hooks and overhead cabinets provide space for coats, bags, and seasonal items. Consider incorporating storage solutions in warm wood tones to match the craftsman aesthetic.
Custom shelving units and labeled baskets help keep everyone’s belongings organized. This functional space serves as a transition between outdoors and your home’s interior, reducing clutter throughout other rooms.
22. Incorporate a breakfast nook
A breakfast nook adds charm and function to your craftsman home. You can create this cozy spot in a corner of your kitchen or in a bay window area.
Choose bench seating with storage underneath to maximize space. Add cushions in fabrics that complement your craftsman style.
A round or square table works well in these nooks. Consider built-in shelving nearby for cookbooks or display items that match your craftsman aesthetic.
23. Try dark-stained wood cabinetry
Dark-stained wood cabinets are a classic choice for craftsman kitchens. They add warmth and character to your space while staying true to craftsman design principles.
You can pair these deep, rich cabinets with lighter countertops for contrast. Natural maple that’s been stained dark creates a beautiful finish that highlights the wood grain.
Consider using dark cabinets for lower units while keeping upper cabinets lighter to prevent your kitchen from feeling too heavy.