Learn how to pick out windows for a Craftsman Bungalow

The Craftsman Bungalow is one of the most common house styles that emerged from the Arts & Crafts movement of the early 20th century. It was the dominant style for smaller houses built throughout America from about 1905 to 1920, and it remains popular today. Characterized by a handcrafted look, Craftsman Bungalows typically feature shallow pitched roofs, exposed rafter tails, and a mixed-material exterior.

Craftsman Bungalows utilize a variety of window types, but there are some consistent themes within the style. Double-hung windows with stained wood interiors are predominant, but casement windows are also common. The windows are typically vertical in proportion, although single-opening accent windows do not always follow this rule. Grilles complement the handcrafted roots of this style.

• Grille patterns: Grilles are used in the upper windows and are vertically proportioned or square. Grilles are never horizontal, even in accent windows. Modified Colonial (6-pane top sash) or Tall Fractional (dual-pane top sash) grille patterns are recommended. Art glass in the top sash is also an attractive option. A-Series windows feature architectural authentic sash and grille details with an option to specify custom grille patterns to create a match with historical applications.
• Color and finishes: With the Craftsman’s emphasis on handcrafted details and woodwork, choosing the right window colors and finishes is especially important.  Craftsman Bungalow window colors favor warm, earthy browns, greens, burgundies and yellows. The window frame and sash are usually one color, the window trim is a contrasting color, and the home’s siding color is close to the color of the window frame and sash. Window interiors can be a wood species like maple, pine, oak, or cherry. For stained wood, espresso and mocha stains are recommended.
• Accent windows: A favorite location for accent windows in the typical Craftsman Bungalow is on either side of the fireplace. These are traditionally casement windows and are usually slightly wider than tall. Although not traditional, awning and picture windows may be substituted. If double-hung windows are used as accents, they should be taller than they are wide. In dormer and gables, the quintessential Craftsman Bungalow often uses single accent windows with an even more pronounced horizontal proportion. Otherwise, three to five square shaped windows, or two to five vertically proportioned windows, may be mulled together to create a band.
• Art glass: Stained glass is a traditional decorative feature of Craftsman Bungalow homes. Casement, awning, or picture windows used as accents, particularly next to the fireplace, are ideal locations for art glass. Symmetrical arrangements in rows of two or three are common. Earthy colors, heavy leading, and medieval design elements are popular in Craftsman Bungalows. Floral patterns and diamond-shaped designs are also common. Explore art glass options. 

A traditional Craftsman front door features a detailed, handcrafted look. Think grilles on the glass, hardware that’s more functional than decorative, a dentil shelf, and plenty of wood that’s stained instead of colored. A dentil shelf is a small decorative shelf that’s usually located below a window of a Craftsman front door. It may have block-like detailing underneath the shelf or other flourishes. 

Either a single or double-panel entry door could be suitable. Look for door panels with detailing for historical accuracy. A transom above the front door can help further a traditional look. Grilles can be integrated into a door’s glass panel, a transom, sidelights, or all three. Consider a diamond grille pattern or simple vertical grille bars, or explore other grille patterns to suit your look. Find more ideas in our entry door style guide. 

A Craftsman Bungalow home may have numerous auxiliary doors leading to patios, decks, the backyard or a side yard. Craftsman Bungalow patio doors can stand alone or be paired with sidelights. Although sidelights were historically full-sized windows, narrower sidelights are now common. Transoms are rarely used. When they are used, they have low profiles.

If you’re planning a more contemporary version of a Craftsman Bungalow, you can deviate from the traditional recommendations to suit your style. For example, if your goal is to let more light in, opt for slimmer lines or larger-scale windows. For a more minimal look, forgo ornamentations such as art glass or dentil shelves. Get inspiration from this reimagined, modern Craftsman Bungalow in which the architect and builder achieved an open, airy feel not typical of the style.

For a traditional Craftsman Bungalow style, look to our A-Series product line for the most architectural authenticity. You can also achieve the look  beautifully with our 200 Series and 400 Series product lines. 

We hope these tips help you create your own perfectly styled Craftsman Bungalow!