Do you have a craftsman home or bungalow that could use a modern touch? Updating elements of your classic home without getting rid of its unique, original features will bring it into the present and allow its natural beauty to shine.
Keep reading to learn how to remodel and modernize your craftsman-style home!
What Is a Craftsman Home?
Craftsman-style architecture is aptly named, because a craftsman home is identifiable by the artistry and skill of the people who built it. The style became popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s, inspired by the anti-industrial Arts and Crafts Movement of the era. Craftsman homes are characterized by their traditional and custom architecture and finishes and have a focus on simple, functional features.
Exteriors often feature low-pitched roofs, overhanging eaves, tapered columns that frame a covered front porch, and multi-paned windows with unique frames. Exterior colors are generally neutral and natural — greens, browns, and muted blues — with wood, brick, stone, and stucco frequently used in construction.
Interiors tend to be more intricate. It’s common to see custom detailing and fine craftsmanship featured in the interior of a craftsman home. From unique stone accents to detailed built-in shelving and beams, no one craftsman looks exactly like the next.
Accentuate Your Home’s Traditional Architecture
Modernizing a classic home shouldn’t mean removing all of its original charm. In fact, when remodeling a craftsman, the goal should be to highlight its uniqueness. Focus on the traditional architectural features that your home already has, like an original fireplace, wooden beams and built-ins, or a covered front porch.
Here are just a few ways to update your home to accentuate its original features:
- Refinish original hardwood floors.
- Build or refinish wood paneling, beams, and built-in cabinets.
- Update or expand your porch.
- Choose earthy, natural colors.
- Reface an original fireplace or add a wood stove.
- Add creative exterior lighting.
- Add multi-paned doors and windows.
- Build a unique window seat.
- Add shutters.
- Remodel your kitchen with new cabinets and careful millwork.
Add a Modern Touch
Craftsman-style homes are designed to be simple, unique, and functional. While some traditional features, like an original fireplace, built-in shelving, or hardwood floors, can add character and charm to your home, an outdated kitchen or deteriorating millwork just make your home feel old and out-of-date.
Updating a craftsman starts with modernizing the basics; think flooring, bathroom sinks and showers, windows and doors, cabinets, countertops, light fixtures, etc. Having modern bathrooms and kitchens, floors, and windows help frame the original features that make your craftsman so charming and unique in the first place. It will also increase your home’s value.
Here are a few things that will instantly modernize your classic craftsman home:
- A center kitchen island
- Stainless steel appliances
- An updated shower
- Granite, quartz, or marble countertops
- Modern cabinets
- Refinished hardwood floors
Add the Finishing Touches
One of the most important elements of updating your classic home is its decor. Once your remodel is complete, make sure you carefully choose the finishing touches to complement your home’s new, updated look!
From furniture, to window coverings, to accent rugs and decor items, choose colors and shapes that complement the architectural elements of your home that you want to highlight.
For example, do you have a gorgeous, newly refaced original fireplace in the living room? Frame it with traditional chairs in neutral colors and a wooden coffee table. Does your kitchen have original wooden beams and a brand new center island with granite countertops? Incorporate hanging plants and kitchen appliances that draw the eye toward these features.
Want to Breathe New Life Into Your Craftsman Home?
Square Deal has been remodeling homes in the Portland/Vancouver area since 1992. We’re committed to delivering a streamlined, collaborative planning and design experience, exquisite craftsmanship, and an updated home you’ll love spending time in and showing off. Let us help you make your vision a reality.
To get your questions answered and tell us about your project, call us at (503) 254-4156 or contact us online.