The Modern Craftsman House: What it is & Why SSDB Loves It
Certain home styles stand the test of time, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary flair. Among these enduring styles is the Modern Craftsman home, celebrated for its emphasis on craftsmanship, natural materials, and attention to detail.
The History of the Modern Craftsman House
Craftsman homes, originating in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, emerged as a response to the industrial revolution’s mass-produced, ornate architecture. They embraced simplicity, honesty, and functionality, reflecting the values of the Arts and Crafts movement. Today, modern Arts and Crafts style homes retain these core principles while incorporating contemporary design elements to suit modern living.
Key Components of the Modern Craftsman Home
While there are many iterations on the modern Arts and Crafts style, there are a few key components that can help you recognize one.
Pitched Gable Roofs:
Modern Craftsman homes typically feature pitched gable roofs with wide eaves that overhang the exterior walls. These roofs often have exposed rafters or decorative braces underneath.
Open Floor Plans:
Modern Craftsman homes typically have open floor plans with minimal interior walls, creating a sense of flow and spaciousness. They often feature centrally-located fireplaces and built-in cabinetry or shelving.
Handcrafted Details:
Modern Craftsman homes are known for their attention to detail and use of natural materials. They often feature handcrafted woodwork, including exposed beams, built-in bookcases, and decorative trim.
Natural Materials:
Modern Craftsman homes emphasize the use of natural materials such as wood, stone, and brick. Exterior siding may include clapboard, shingles, or stucco, often with decorative detailing.
This SSDB Modern Craftsman home features a minimal landscape treatment that prioritizes the native plants and trees of the back woods. The monochromatic color scheme on the exterior camouflages the home into the surroundings, making the home appear to rise right out of the Earth.
Integration with Nature:
Modern Craftsman homes are designed to blend harmoniously with their natural surroundings. They often feature large windows and doors that provide ample natural light and views of the outdoors. Outdoor living spaces, such as covered porches or patios, are common features of Craftsman homes.
This SSDB Modern Craftsman home was ideally cited on its triangular lot to maximize privacy and welcome in the rustic, woodsy views. The home is beautifully unpretentious and is nestled in its natural surroundings.
Why We Love the Modern Craftsman House
As a team that values craftsmanship, artistry, and connection with nature, the Modern Craftsman is a style of home that we love.
SSDB architect Amy Berka explains that “Craftsman style homes are all about dedication to craftmanship. These homes are detail heavy, super charming and cozy – full of character with distinctive roof lines, natural exteriors, deep porches, and hand-crafted wood details. When designing a Modern Craftsman we use these core attributes as our design precedent and starting point. From there we consider site specific details, views between interior spaces along with views and connections to the outdoors. In the end, the result is a timeless house with a modern take on vintage charm.”
Is the Modern Craftsman House right for you?
If you love the idea of living in a home where elegance, craftsmanship, natural elements, and timelessness come alive, the Modern Craftsman home could be just what you’re looking for. The SSDB team welcomes you to reach out about building your very own Modern Craftsman sanctuary.