Craftsman Kitchens

Craftsman style arose in the early 20th century as a reaction to the mass-produced fussiness of the Victorian era. Its rich woods, built-ins, handcrafted tiles and well-made simplicity continue to charm us

1. Rich woods

More than any other material, wood defines Craftsman style, thanks to its emphasis on natural beauty. Leave kitchen cabinets unpainted and coat them in a deep stain instead of paint for a warm, lustrous look. Oak is practically synonymous with Craftsman design; if you choose other woods, stick with indigenous species such as maple or pine. 

2. Clean-lined cabinetry

Craftsman style eschews fuss and frills in favor of pure function, and cabinets should follow suit. Straightforward frameless or flat-panel doors, perhaps with simple glass panes, fall in step with the aesthetic. Craftsman cabinets lack carved detailing or other ornamentation but display the joinery proudly — proof of the artisan at work.

3. Simple lighting

Craftsman-style lighting is first and foremost about function, but its strong geometric lines also add visual flair. Mica is the classic material for pendants, chandeliers and sconces; Tiffany lamps suit the look as well.

4. Built-in seating

What could be more useful than a built-in banquette that eliminates the need for a separate table and chairs? Craftsman kitchens often feature a setup like this in a breakfast room or nook.

5. Earthy colors

The Craftsman palette pulls straight from nature. Think mossy greens, woodsy browns, deep golds and rusty oranges, brought in through the use of paint, tile and accents.

6. Natural stone

As with wood, stone's natural beauty provides an ideal foil for the straightforward honesty of Craftsman design. Choose slate for flooring and backsplashes; honed granite and soapstone look just right for countertops