Craftsman house plans are surging in popularity, as they provide a spacious and inviting family home. Originally built in the early 20th Century, Craftsman homes were a departure from the stately tradition of Colonial, classical, and Victorian. The English Arts and Crafts movement was also a major influence on the Craftsman style of architecture, as it emphasized hand-crafted details such as interior built-ins and decorative woodwork. Craftsman home plans exhibit unmistakable curb appeal with a deep front porch, natural materials, exposed rafters, and a low roofline. The porch features tapered, square columns set upon heavy piers with masonry construction. These piers often extend to ground level without interruption, further emphasizing connection to the site. The roof often has a large front gable that spans the width of the house, but pyramidal and hipped roofs are also common. Dormers are very common and usually have decorative details mimicking the main roofline. Craftsman style homes are usually painted in several complementary earth tones that harmonize with the organic materials used in construction. Windows are a key element to the home and are often double-hung sash with a single pane of glass on the lower sash and numerous smaller panes above. The front entry is usually a heavy wood door with vertical panels and glass inserts at the top. Modern Craftsman house plans often take advantage of the large square form and are designed with an open plan in mind. Auxiliary bedrooms can be placed on the second floor with a luxurious master suite on the main. Modern versions will include large open kitchens. Continue the use of natural materials with a large stone fireplace, wood built-ins, and a beamed ceiling for the ultimate in Craftsman charm. Also contained in this category are Craftsman bungalows and Shingle style floor plans. Craftsman bungalows usually feature one-and-a-half stories and a prominent dormer. Bungalows are often affordable to build and can fit a smaller lot, while Shingle style floor plans are usually large, feature complex rooflines and shapes, and, like craftsman house plans, ooze curb appeal with a welcoming front porch. Many Shingle plans feature luxurious amenities and lots of outdoor living, evoking the opulent summer mansions of Newport, Rhode Island. Related categories: Bungalow House Plans, House Plans with Porch, House Plans with Open Floor Plan, House Plans with Master Suite on Main Level, and House Plans with Fireplace.
