Modernizing the Classic Craftsman

Craftsman style homes have a rich history dating back to the 1920’s. Uniquely joining interior and exterior design cues while using signature architectural motifs like exposed beams or rafters and prominent brick or stonework, craftsman homes are once again finding themselves at the forefront of luxury real estate. According to the Wall Street Journal, the modern craftsman home is, “growing in popularity: Houseplans.com, a large online seller of blueprints, said 25% of the plans it sold in the last quarter were craftsmen.”  As seen in the homes below, the addition of modern touches like high ceilings, the use of natural light, modern amenities and brighter colors add enduring qualities the classic craftsman design and make for a unique living space.

$1,750,000 | Lyme, Connecticut | William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty

Prominently featuring a relocated and rebuilt blacksmith’s shop from 1750, this modern craftsman home is the amalgamation of classic elements and modern design motifs. With soft white walls, high ceilings highlighting the exposed wooden rafters and a plethora of natural light exposure, this pictured sitting area has the enduring timelessness of a craftsman home while also feeling vibrantly modern at the same time.

$1,700,000 | Salt Lake City, Utah | Summit Sotheby’s International Realty

Understated elegance, contemporary clean lines and a true appreciation of craftsman design combine to offer a tranquil retreat in the gorgeous Mt. Olympus Cove area of Utah. Basking elegantly in the softly penetrating natural light, this modern take on the craftsman is captivating. The nearly floor to ceiling stone-faced hearth centered between the large windows is an inspiring twist that modernizes the overall design.

$1,780,000 | Sandy Springs, Georgia | Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty

Highlighting the use of one of the more recognizable craftsmen features, this Georgian home sits on more than one wooded acre north of Atlanta. The exquisitely detailed beams above the entrance, the external brick and stonework walls, and exposed wooden accents are all distinctly craftsman. From the outside looking in, the overall shape and large windows offer a modern touch on an otherwise classic look.

$1,500,00 | Charlotte, North Carolina | Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

Nestled on 2.6 acres, this modern craftsman’s outdoor living space brilliantly displays its enduring features. While the stonework hearth and exposed ceiling rafters are indicative of the classic craftsman design, the invigorating use of natural light and lofting high ceilings add a luxuriously modern twist. Thinking outside of the box allows this design to reflect that of the overall home’s while still being wholly unique and contemporary.

$3,911,502 | Siena, Italy | Tuscany Sotheby’s International Realty

While not necessarily a craftsman style home, this 480 square meter Tuscan farmhouse showcases some qualities cut from the same cloth as a modern craftsman. The stainless kitchen appliances coupled with the exposed stone ceilings and floors pictured in this kitchen are the kinds of style modification found in more contemporary craftsman homes. The large window over the sink allows for a wealth of natural light to fill the room and helps create an inviting atmosphere.

$1,674,826 | Calgary Alberta, Canada | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

This warm, inviting and energy efficient Canadian home is an exquisite modern craftsman. Inside and out, this home’s features blend old and new seamlessly. The exposed beams, prominent stonework, soft color, modern amenities, and large windows throughout the design of the home speak to everything that a modern craftsman can and should be. Enjoy the comfort and warmth offered in front of the walk around stone fireplace while taking in the hillside vistas from the surrounding windows in this living space.