A Manufacturer’s Take on the Craftsman Design Trend

Plastpro Inc. is a leading manufacturer of fiberglass entry doors and has been in business since 1994. We’ve introduced the first fiberglass door with composite stiles and rails, HydroShield technology, and composite Polyfiber Frames to the industry.

“Craftsman” style is often stated as a consumer preference, and with charming features like built-ins, generous windows, and open floor plans, it is no wonder. With features that bridge the gap to appeal to young minimalists and a more traditional audience, Craftsman is a good style to keep in mind when curating product offerings.

Fresh off of launching its Craftsman Series in 2021, Plastpro shares information about the history and features of Craftsman homes, and advice about how to incorporate this classic design into new construction.

History of the Craftsman Design

Craftsman homes emerged in the late 19th century as part of the Arts & Crafts Movement in Britain. This movement was geared towards reviving custom handiwork and features, in opposition to the style of the Industrial Age.

The style came “across the pond” and became popular in the United States in the early 20th century. American furniture maker Gustav Stickley avidly promoted the style and popularized it with his magazine, “The Craftsman.” The movement popularized many of the Craftsman and bungalow style homes we see today, especially as an architectural staple in California and the Midwest.

Characteristic features of the Craftsman style include:

• Small- to medium-size homes
• Low roofs and overhanging eaves
• Simple furnishings and colors
• Natural materials like wood, stucco, stone and brick
• Open family room floor plans
• Eat-in kitchen nooks
• Lots of natural light
• Built-in cabinets and bookshelves
• Hardwood floors
• Ceiling beams
• Fireplaces
• Custom millwork and large pieces of trim
• Dark wood paneling
• Stained glass
• Sleeping porches
• Large front porches supported by columns

Ties to Modern Home Trends

Craftsman homes reflect beauty, functionality, family space, and comfort — timeless values that have become even more important in recent years. The pandemic has prompted people to spend more time at home and increasing the desire for features like separate office spaces, built-in storage space, and more aesthetically pleasing features.

How to Incorporate the Trend

Custom, handcrafted homes aren't a practical solution for everyone and not every Craftsman feature has made a popular comeback. Yet, manufacturers, architects, designers, and builders can capitalize on the appeal of this trend and create homes that buyers love. At Plastpro, this meant launching a Craftsman product line in 2021 with products that best blend simplicity and character with wide appeal, and added some optional accessories for those who want to fully embrace the Craftsman style.

Contact Plastpro today for more information.