A Craftsman style house plan is a set of blueprints and specifications that outlines the design and construction of a Craftsman style house. Craftsman style houses are characterized by their simple lines, natural materials, and emphasis on craftsmanship. They are often built with a low-pitched gable roof, exposed rafters, and a wide front porch. Craftsman style houses are popular in both urban and rural areas, and they can range from small cottages to large mansions.
Craftsman style house plans are designed to be both functional and beautiful. The plans typically include detailed instructions for every aspect of the house’s construction, from the foundation to the roof. This ensures that the house is built to last and that it meets the needs of the homeowner.
In the following sections, we will discuss the different features of Craftsman style house plans and how they can be used to create beautiful and functional homes.
Craftsman style house plans are characterized by their simple lines, natural materials, and emphasis on craftsmanship. Here are 9 important points to keep in mind when considering a Craftsman style house plan:
- Low-pitched gable roof
- Exposed rafters
- Wide front porch
- Natural materials
- Simple lines
- Functional design
- Built to last
- Meets the needs of the homeowner
- Popular in both urban and rural areas
By following these guidelines, you can create a beautiful and functional Craftsman style home that will stand the test of time.
Low-pitched gable roof
One of the most distinctive features of a Craftsman style house is its low-pitched gable roof. Gable roofs are characterized by two sloping sides that meet at a ridge at the top of the roof. In a Craftsman style house, the gable roof is typically low-pitched, meaning that the slope of the roof is not very steep. This gives the house a more horizontal appearance and helps to create a sense of balance and harmony.
Low-pitched gable roofs are also more energy-efficient than steeply pitched roofs. This is because a low-pitched roof has less surface area exposed to the sun and wind, which reduces heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. In addition, low-pitched roofs are less likely to be damaged by high winds.
There are many different types of low-pitched gable roofs that can be used in a Craftsman style house. Some of the most common types include:
- Front-facing gable roof: This type of roof has a gable end that faces the front of the house. The gable end is typically adorned with a decorative bargeboard and exposed rafters.
- Side-facing gable roof: This type of roof has a gable end that faces the side of the house. The gable end is typically less decorative than a front-facing gable end, but it may still have some decorative elements, such as a window or a small porch.
- Cross-gable roof: This type of roof has two gables that intersect at a right angle. Cross-gable roofs are often used on larger Craftsman style houses, and they can add a touch of drama and interest to the exterior of the home.
No matter what type of low-pitched gable roof you choose, you can be sure that it will give your Craftsman style house a distinctive and beautiful look.
Exposed rafters
Exposed rafters are another distinctive feature of Craftsman style houses. Rafters are the structural members that support the roof of a house. In a Craftsman style house, the rafters are typically exposed on the exterior of the home, where they can be seen from the ground. This gives the house a more rustic and natural look.
There are many different ways to expose rafters on a Craftsman style house. Some of the most common methods include:
- Full exposure: In this method, the rafters are exposed from the eaves to the ridge of the roof. This is the most dramatic way to expose rafters, and it can give the house a very strong visual impact.
- Partial exposure: In this method, only a portion of the rafters are exposed. This is a less dramatic way to expose rafters, but it can still add a touch of rustic charm to the home.
- Decorative exposure: In this method, the rafters are exposed only for decorative purposes. This is often done by adding decorative brackets or corbels to the rafters.
No matter how you choose to expose the rafters on your Craftsman style house, you can be sure that it will add a unique and beautiful touch to the exterior of your home.
Wide front porch
A wide front porch is a classic feature of Craftsman style houses. Porches are a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, and they can also add a touch of curb appeal to your home. Craftsman style porches are typically wide and inviting, with plenty of room for seating. They are often supported by large columns or pillars, and they may have a roof that extends over the porch.
There are many different ways to design a wide front porch. Some of the most popular options include:
- Wraparound porch: This type of porch wraps around the front of the house, creating a sheltered and inviting space. Wraparound porches are often found on larger Craftsman style homes.
- Full-width porch: This type of porch extends the full width of the house, creating a grand and impressive entrance. Full-width porches are often found on smaller Craftsman style homes.
- Partial-width porch: This type of porch covers only a portion of the front of the house. Partial-width porches are a good option for homes that have a smaller footprint.
No matter what type of wide front porch you choose, you can be sure that it will add a touch of charm and character to your Craftsman style home.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, wide front porches also serve a number of practical purposes. Porches can provide shade from the sun and rain, and they can also help to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Porches are also a great place to entertain guests or simply relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Natural materials
Craftsman style houses are known for their use of natural materials, such as wood, stone, and brick. These materials give Craftsman style homes a warm and inviting feel, and they also help to create a strong connection to the outdoors.
- Wood: Wood is the most common material used in Craftsman style houses. It is used for everything from the siding to the trim to the flooring. Craftsman style homes often feature exposed wood beams and rafters, which add to the rustic charm of the home.
- Stone: Stone is another popular material used in Craftsman style houses. It is often used for the foundation of the home, as well as for chimneys, fireplaces, and patios. Stone gives Craftsman style homes a solid and substantial look.
- Brick: Brick is a less common material used in Craftsman style houses, but it can be very effective when used in the right way. Brick is often used for the exterior walls of the home, and it can give Craftsman style homes a more formal and elegant look.
- Other natural materials: In addition to wood, stone, and brick, Craftsman style homes may also use other natural materials, such as tile, plaster, and glass. These materials can be used to create a variety of different looks, from rustic to elegant.
The use of natural materials is one of the things that makes Craftsman style houses so popular. These materials give Craftsman style homes a warm and inviting feel, and they also help to create a strong connection to the outdoors.
Simple lines
Craftsman style houses are known for their simple lines. This means that the lines of the house are clean and uncluttered, and there is no unnecessary ornamentation. Simple lines give Craftsman style houses a timeless and elegant look.
- Horizontal lines: Craftsman style houses often emphasize horizontal lines. This is achieved through the use of low-pitched gable roofs, wide front porches, and bands of windows. Horizontal lines create a sense of balance and harmony, and they make the house appear wider and more spacious.
- Vertical lines: Craftsman style houses also use vertical lines to create interest and visual appeal. Vertical lines are often used in the form of columns, pillars, and exposed rafters. Vertical lines create a sense of height and grandeur, and they can help to draw the eye upward.
- Geometric lines: Craftsman style houses often use geometric lines to create a sense of order and symmetry. Geometric lines are often used in the form of square and rectangular windows, doors, and porches. Geometric lines create a sense of stability and permanence, and they can help to make the house look more formal and elegant.
- Curved lines: Craftsman style houses also use curved lines to create a sense of softness and fluidity. Curved lines are often used in the form of arches, curves, and circles. Curved lines create a sense of movement and energy, and they can help to make the house look more inviting and welcoming.
The use of simple lines is one of the things that makes Craftsman style houses so popular. Simple lines give Craftsman style houses a timeless and elegant look, and they can be used to create a variety of different looks, from rustic to formal.
Functional design
Craftsman style houses are known for their functional design. This means that the house is designed to be both beautiful and practical. The floor plan is typically open and flowing, with a focus on natural light and ventilation. The rooms are spacious and well-proportioned, and they are designed to meet the needs of the homeowner.
- Open floor plan: Craftsman style houses often have an open floor plan, which means that the living room, dining room, and kitchen are all connected. This creates a more spacious and inviting space, and it makes it easier for family and friends to interact with each other.
- Natural light and ventilation: Craftsman style houses are designed to take advantage of natural light and ventilation. The windows are typically large and placed to maximize the amount of sunlight that enters the home. The porches and overhangs help to shade the house from the sun in the summer, and they also help to circulate air.
- Spacious and well-proportioned rooms: The rooms in a Craftsman style house are typically spacious and well-proportioned. This creates a more comfortable and livable space, and it makes it easier to furnish the home.
- Designed to meet the needs of the homeowner: Craftsman style houses are designed to meet the needs of the homeowner. This means that the house can be customized to fit the specific needs of the family. For example, a family with young children may want to have a large family room, while a family with older children may want to have a more formal living room.
The functional design of Craftsman style houses is one of the things that makes them so popular. Craftsman style houses are both beautiful and practical, and they can be customized to meet the needs of the homeowner.
Built to last
Craftsman style houses are built to last. This is due to their sturdy construction and high-quality materials. Craftsman style houses are typically built on a solid foundation, and they are framed with heavy timbers. The exterior of the house is typically clad in wood, stone, or brick, and the roof is typically made of durable materials, such as slate or tile.
- Solid foundation: Craftsman style houses are typically built on a solid foundation, such as a concrete slab or a crawlspace. This provides a strong and stable base for the house, and it helps to protect the house from the elements.
- Heavy timber framing: Craftsman style houses are typically framed with heavy timbers, such as Douglas fir or redwood. These timbers are strong and durable, and they can withstand the weight of the house and the elements.
- Durable exterior materials: The exterior of a Craftsman style house is typically clad in durable materials, such as wood, stone, or brick. These materials are resistant to rot, decay, and insects, and they can withstand the elements for many years.
- Durable roofing materials: The roof of a Craftsman style house is typically made of durable materials, such as slate or tile. These materials are resistant to fire, wind, and rain, and they can last for many years.
The combination of a solid foundation, heavy timber framing, durable exterior materials, and a durable roof makes Craftsman style houses very sturdy and long-lasting. Craftsman style houses are built to last for generations, and they can provide their owners with many years of enjoyment.
Meets the needs of the homeowner
Craftsman style house plans are designed to meet the needs of the homeowner. This means that the house can be customized to fit the specific needs of the family. For example, a family with young children may want to have a large family room, while a family with older children may want to have a more formal living room. Craftsman style house plans can also be customized to meet the needs of the homeowner’s lifestyle. For example, a homeowner who loves to cook may want to have a large kitchen with a professional-grade stove, while a homeowner who loves to entertain may want to have a large dining room and a covered patio.
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a Craftsman style house plan is the number of bedrooms and bathrooms that you need. Craftsman style house plans are available with a variety of different bedroom and bathroom configurations, so you can find a plan that is perfect for your family’s needs. You should also consider the size of the house that you need. Craftsman style house plans are available in a variety of different sizes, from small cottages to large mansions. Once you have considered your needs, you can start to narrow down your choices.
Another important thing to consider when choosing a Craftsman style house plan is the style of the house. Craftsman style house plans are available in a variety of different styles, from traditional to modern. You should choose a style that you love and that fits your personality. If you are not sure what style you want, you can look at pictures of Craftsman style houses online or in magazines. You can also visit a local home show to see different Craftsman style houses in person.
Once you have chosen a Craftsman style house plan, you can start to make your dream home a reality. Craftsman style houses are beautiful, functional, and built to last. They are the perfect choice for homeowners who want a home that is both stylish and comfortable.
Popular in both urban and rural areas
Craftsman style houses are popular in both urban and rural areas because they offer a unique combination of style, functionality, and durability. In urban areas, Craftsman style houses are often sought after for their charming and inviting curb appeal. Their simple lines and natural materials give them a timeless look that blends well with other architectural styles. In rural areas, Craftsman style houses are popular for their sturdiness and ability to withstand the elements. They are also well-suited for large families, as they often have multiple bedrooms and bathrooms.
One of the reasons why Craftsman style houses are so popular in urban areas is their adaptability. They can be built on a variety of lot sizes and in a variety of configurations. This makes them a good choice for both small and large families. Craftsman style houses can also be customized to fit the specific needs of the homeowner. For example, a homeowner who loves to cook may want to add a large kitchen with a professional-grade stove. A homeowner who loves to entertain may want to add a large dining room and a covered patio.
Another reason why Craftsman style houses are so popular in urban areas is their durability. They are built to last, with sturdy construction and high-quality materials. This makes them a good investment for homeowners who want a home that will stand the test of time. Craftsman style houses are also relatively easy to maintain, which makes them a good choice for busy families.
In rural areas, Craftsman style houses are popular for their ability to withstand the elements. They are built with sturdy construction and durable materials, which makes them well-suited for areas with harsh weather conditions. Craftsman style houses are also energy-efficient, which can save homeowners money on their energy bills.
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