Interior Design for Craftsman Style Homes

Staff Desk

1 day ago6 min read

Cozy living room with beige sofas, wooden table, and magazines. Warm lighting, framed art on wall, lanterns, and decorative accents.

Craftsman-style homes are known for their warmth, charm, and timeless appeal. These homes, which became popular in the early 20th century, emphasize natural materials, handcrafted details, and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. If you are decorating or renovating a Craftsman-style home, it’s important to stay true to its classic elements while adding modern touches for comfort and functionality. In this guide, we will explore the best interior design ideas to enhance the beauty of your Craftsman home.

1. Key Features of Craftsman Interior Design

Cozy living room with a blue sofa, colorful cushions, wooden coffee table with flowers, and plaid blankets. Sunlight through large windows.

Before diving into specific design ideas, it's important to understand the key features of a Craftsman-style home:

Natural Materials – Wood, stone, and brick are commonly used throughout the home.
Built-In Furniture – Craftsman homes often feature built-in bookcases, benches, and cabinetry.
Exposed Beams – Wooden ceiling beams add character and architectural interest.
Handcrafted Details – Stained glass, intricate woodwork, and decorative moldings are hallmarks of the style.
Earthy Color Palette – Warm and muted tones like brown, green, rust, and mustard are typical choices.
Fireplaces – A central fireplace is often the focal point of the living room.

Now, let's explore different areas of the home and how to design them in Craftsman style.

3. Kitchen Design

A cozy kitchen with wooden cabinets, white countertops, and large windows. A vase with green plants and dishes in the cupboards add charm.

A Craftsman-style kitchen combines function with beauty, focusing on sturdy materials and timeless design elements.

Wood Cabinets – Opt for natural wood cabinets with simple paneling and minimal hardware.
Subway Tile Backsplash – White or neutral-colored subway tiles add a classic touch.
Open Shelving – Display dishes and cookware on wooden open shelves.
Copper or Brass Fixtures – Use antique-style faucets and handles to maintain an old-world feel.
Farmhouse Sink – A large apron-front sink complements the Craftsman aesthetic.
Pendant Lighting – Choose metal or glass pendant lights to enhance the space.

1. Key Features of Craftsman Interior Design

Elegant teal library with four beige chairs around a round table, bookshelves, a fireplace, and art. Bright windows create a cozy mood.

Before diving into specific design ideas, it's important to understand the key features of a Craftsman-style home:

Natural Materials – Wood, stone, and brick are commonly used throughout the home.
Built-In Furniture – Craftsman homes often feature built-in bookcases, benches, and cabinetry.
Exposed Beams – Wooden ceiling beams add character and architectural interest.
Handcrafted Details – Stained glass, intricate woodwork, and decorative moldings are hallmarks of the style.
Earthy Color Palette – Warm and muted tones like brown, green, rust, and mustard are typical choices.
Fireplaces – A central fireplace is often the focal point of the living room.

Now, let's explore different areas of the home and how to design them in Craftsman style.

2. Living Room Design

Mid-century modern living room with gray sofa, armchairs, plants, and wooden paneling. Colorful rug, artwork, and cozy atmosphere.

The living room in a Craftsman-style home should feel warm, inviting, and comfortable. Here are some key design ideas:

Use Rich Wood Tones – Incorporate oak, mahogany, or walnut for furniture and trim work.
Built-In Features – Include bookshelves, window seats, and storage benches to enhance the charm.
Fireplace as a Focal Point – A stone or brick fireplace with a wooden mantel makes the room feel cozy.
Earthy Color Palette – Use shades of olive green, warm brown, burnt orange, or deep red.
Classic Lighting – Install stained glass or Tiffany-style pendant lights and wall sconces.

4. Dining Room Design

Wooden dining table with chairs on a red patterned rug in a bright room. Glass double doors, wooden trim, and a plate on a side table.

The dining room in a Craftsman home should be warm and elegant, making it a perfect space for family gatherings.

Wooden Dining Table – A sturdy wooden table with simple detailing is ideal.
Built-In Sideboard – Use a built-in sideboard or buffet for storage and display.
Warm Lighting – Install a chandelier with stained glass or bronze detailing.
Wainscoting and Molding – Adding decorative wall paneling enhances the traditional look.
Muted Wall Colors – Stick to warm neutrals like beige, mustard, or deep green.

5. Bedroom Design

Cozy bedroom with green walls, wooden bed, and intricate headboard. Green bedding, potted plants, and warm lighting create a serene ambiance.

A Craftsman-style bedroom should be cozy, simple, and rich in texture.

Wooden Bed Frame – Opt for a solid wood bed with carved details.
Simple Linens – Use soft, natural fabrics in earthy tones.
Handcrafted Furniture – Incorporate dressers, nightstands, and chests with detailed craftsmanship.
Soft Lighting – Use table lamps with stained glass shades for a warm ambiance.
Window Treatments – Choose simple Roman shades or wooden blinds to maintain the natural look.

6. Bathroom Design

Classic bathroom with a clawfoot tub, stained glass window, wooden shelves, dual-sink vanity, decorative vases, and beige walls, creating a calm mood.

A Craftsman-style bathroom blends simplicity with elegant detailing.

Clawfoot Bathtub – A freestanding tub adds vintage charm.
Wooden Vanity – Use a wooden vanity with a stone countertop.
Subway Tile Walls – White or cream-colored subway tiles keep the space classic.
Oil-Rubbed Bronze Fixtures – Choose vintage-style faucets and towel bars.
Framed Mirrors – A wooden or wrought iron-framed mirror adds character.

7. Hallways and Entryways

Warm, cozy hallway with wooden floors, a patterned runner, and elegant light fixture. Wooden door and window let in natural light.

These areas set the tone for the rest of the home, so they should reflect the Craftsman style as well.

Wood Paneling – Wainscoting or board-and-batten paneling enhances the entryway.
Vintage Rugs – Use Persian or Oriental rugs to add warmth.
Wall Sconces – Install warm-toned wall sconces for soft lighting.
Coat Hooks and Benches – Incorporate a built-in bench with storage for convenience.

8. Outdoor and Porch Design

Brick porch with wicker chairs, colorful cushions, and blooming flowers. Black columns and lights. Peaceful, sunny garden in background.

The exterior spaces of a Craftsman home should blend with the natural surroundings.

Covered Porch – Include sturdy wooden columns and stone accents.
Swing or Rocking Chairs – Enhance the porch with comfortable seating.
Natural Landscaping – Use native plants and stone pathways.
Warm Outdoor Lighting – Install lantern-style fixtures for a cozy feel.

9. Mixing Modern Elements with Craftsman Style

Dining room with a wooden table, black chairs, and a floral centerpiece. Wood beams and a cabinet with glassware in the background. Cozy mood.

While traditional Craftsman elements are timeless, adding modern features can enhance functionality:

Smart Lighting – Install dimmable LED lights with vintage-style bulbs.
Updated Appliances – Choose modern appliances in neutral finishes to blend seamlessly.
Minimalist Decor – Keep the decor simple and functional to maintain a clean aesthetic.
Sustainable Materials – Use reclaimed wood, eco-friendly paints, and energy-efficient windows.

Here are 10 unique FAQs about Interior Design for Craftsman Style Homes:

What are the key elements of Craftsman-style interior design?
Craftsman-style interiors emphasize natural materials, built-in furniture, exposed beams, earthy color palettes, and handcrafted details like woodwork and stone fireplaces.
Which color palette works best for a Craftsman-style home?
Earthy tones like warm browns, deep greens, burnt orange, mustard yellow, and soft neutrals create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in a Craftsman-style home.
What kind of flooring is best for a Craftsman-style home?
Hardwood flooring, especially oak, maple, or walnut, is ideal. You can also add area rugs with intricate patterns to enhance the warm and classic look.
How can I incorporate modern elements into a Craftsman-style home?
You can blend modern touches by adding minimalist furniture, neutral-toned upholstery, updated lighting fixtures, and smart home technology while maintaining classic Craftsman architectural details.
Are open floor plans suitable for Craftsman-style homes?
Traditionally, Craftsman homes have more defined spaces, but you can modify the layout by using wide doorways and arched openings to create a semi-open feel while keeping room distinctions.
What type of lighting suits Craftsman interiors?
Stained glass pendant lights, wrought iron chandeliers, and table lamps with warm, amber-hued shades enhance the cozy ambiance of a Craftsman home.
What furniture should I use in a Craftsman-style home?
Stick to solid wood furniture with simple lines, Mission-style pieces, and handmade details. Built-in cabinets and window seats also add to the authentic Craftsman aesthetic.
How can I decorate a Craftsman-style kitchen?
Use shaker-style cabinets, open shelving, subway tiles, wooden countertops, and warm metallic accents like copper or brass for a timeless Craftsman-inspired kitchen.
What are some budget-friendly ways to achieve a Craftsman-style look?
Refinish existing woodwork, add Craftsman-style trim and molding, use vintage furniture, and incorporate warm lighting fixtures to create an authentic look without overspending.
How can I enhance the exterior to match the Craftsman interior?Use stone or brick accents, tapered columns, wooden front doors, and a welcoming porch with rustic furniture to ensure the exterior complements the cozy and detailed interior style.