The Craftsman Bungalow is one of the most common house styles that emerged from the Arts & Crafts movement of the early 20th century. It was the dominant style for smaller houses built throughout America from about 1905 to 1920, and it remains popular today. Characterized by a handcrafted look, Craftsman Bungalows typically feature shallow pitched roofs, exposed rafter tails, and a mixed-material exterior.
Craftsman Bungalows utilize a variety of window types, but there are some consistent themes within the style. Double-hung windows with stained wood interiors are predominant, but casement windows are also common. The windows are typically vertical in proportion, although single-opening accent windows do not always follow this rule. Grilles complement the handcrafted roots of this style.
A traditional Craftsman front door features a detailed, handcrafted look. Think grilles on the glass, hardware that’s more functional than decorative, a dentil shelf, and plenty of wood that’s stained instead of colored. A dentil shelf is a small decorative shelf that’s usually located below a window of a Craftsman front door. It may have block-like detailing underneath the shelf or other flourishes.
Either a single or double-panel entry door could be suitable. Look for door panels with detailing for historical accuracy. A transom above the front door can help further a traditional look. Grilles can be integrated into a door’s glass panel, a transom, sidelights, or all three. Consider a diamond grille pattern or simple vertical grille bars, or explore other grille patterns to suit your look. Find more ideas in our entry door style guide.
A Craftsman Bungalow home may have numerous auxiliary doors leading to patios, decks, the backyard or a side yard. Craftsman Bungalow patio doors can stand alone or be paired with sidelights. Although sidelights were historically full-sized windows, narrower sidelights are now common. Transoms are rarely used. When they are used, they have low profiles.
If you’re planning a more contemporary version of a Craftsman Bungalow, you can deviate from the traditional recommendations to suit your style. For example, if your goal is to let more light in, opt for slimmer lines or larger-scale windows. For a more minimal look, forgo ornamentations such as art glass or dentil shelves. Get inspiration from this reimagined, modern Craftsman Bungalow in which the architect and builder achieved an open, airy feel not typical of the style.
For a traditional Craftsman Bungalow style, look to our A-Series product line for the most architectural authenticity. You can also achieve the look beautifully with our 200 Series and 400 Series product lines.
We hope these tips help you create your own perfectly styled Craftsman Bungalow!
