Craftsman style architecture emerged in America in the early 1900s, marking a return to handcrafted materials that had been overshadowed with the emergence of mass production during the industrial revolution. Today, many owners of craftsman style homes are remodeling to better accommodate the modern lifestyle while preserving the warmth and charm that has defined the craftsman style for the past century. Preserving the original style of a craftsman style home may be met with some challenges, such as restoring craftsman character that has been compromised in previous renovations.
Heavy use of exposed woodwork gives craftsman homes their warmth and signature charm. A return to artistic, handcrafted wood detail is observed in original craftsman homes in decorative moldings, chair and picture railings, wood paneling and intricate staircases. Exposed beams, built in shelving and intricate crown moldings in warm wood tones are characteristic craftsman touches that can be preserved, restored or added during a renovation. Stripping and staining woodwork that has been painted is one way to restore a craftsman home's authenticity and preserve the original style of the home. Newly added wood should be matched as closely as possible to existing woodwork to preserve the home's style and give a cohesive look to the old and new elements of the home. The use of local natural materials such as wood and stone is also in keeping with the craftsman style.
The simple, functional layout that is characteristic of craftsman style homes makes the efficient use of space a priority in remodeling. Adding built in shelving or cabinets that coordinate with the original woodwork throughout the home is a great way to preserve the home's historic charm while adding the storage that is often lacking in older homes. Built-in window seats and banquettes can add functional seating and storage into small spaces while maintaining craftsman style.
In your quest to update a craftsman home without compromising its historic value, you may be wondering how to modernize kitchen and bathroom fixtures. Fortunately, resurgence in the popularity of craftsman inspired furnishings has resulted in many modern day recreations that give homeowners the option to update their homes with brand new materials without sacrificing the home's original charm. Brand new sinks, countertops, vanities, bathtubs, cabinet hardware and lighting fixtures can be purchased in designs very similar to those that helped define the craftsman style a century ago.
By utilizing period appropriate materials and styles, you can update your historic home for the modern lifestyle while preserving the warmth and simplicity that was integral to the home's design so many years ago.
Maria Polidoro is the owner of Ace Tool Online, a leading provider of electric and cordless power tools headquartered in Wantagh, New York. Ace Tool stocks the latest power tools, parts and accessories and is a premiere source for Amana products including amana saw blades, amana router bits, carbide tipped saw blades and over 70 other brands.
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