Craftsman-style homes have been cherished for their handcrafted simplicity and charm. They originated from the late 19th-century Arts and Crafts movement and quickly gained popularity for their distinctive designs, emphasizing natural materials, clean lines, and built-in functionality. Keep reading to learn more about why these homes are so unique.
The Four Types of Cleveland Craftsman-Style Properties
Cleveland area craftsman architecture comes in several varieties, each with distinctive features that appeal to different aesthetics and needs. These styles continue to evolve in Cleveland, but their timeless craftsmanship remains consistent. Here are the four types of craftsman homes:
Bungalow
Bungalow-style Craftsman homes are cozy and often modest in size. They typically feature open floor plans and are perfect for families seeking a functional yet aesthetically pleasing home.
Mission Revival
Mission Revival homes borrow elements from Spanish colonial architecture, blending stucco walls and red-tile roofs with Craftsman features. In Cleveland, these homes stand out for their unique character, and our team enjoys adding modern conveniences while retaining their original charm.
Four Square
The Four Square Craftsman is a boxy design with a practical layout. It is ideal for Cleveland families looking for spacious, family-oriented living.
Prairie
Prairie-style homes feature low-pitched roofs and strong horizontal lines, offering a sleek, modern take on Craftsman architecture. They are known for integrating with the landscape, using natural materials to complement the surrounding environment.
What Are the Defining Features of Craftsman Homes in the Cleveland Area?
Craftsman homes in Cleveland embody many of the properties that make this style so beloved. Still, they also have unique local touches that set them apart from similar homes in other regions. Here are the features of this homestyle that have made Cleveland homeowners fall in love for generations:
Modest Size
Many Cleveland-area Craftsman homes are designed with a modest footprint, making them perfect for families prioritizing cozy, functional living. Despite their size, these homes are rich in character and craftsmanship, offering charm and practicality.
Large Windows
Natural light is a priority in these homes, often featuring large, grouped windows. These windows flood the home with sunlight, creating bright, inviting spaces while offering year-round picturesque views.
Covered Front Porches
One of the most recognizable features of Cleveland Craftsman homes is the large, welcoming front porch—ideal for enjoying Ohio’s changing seasons. These porches create the perfect setting for family moments like sipping hot cocoa in the fall or watching the flowers bloom in spring.
Built-Ins
Built-in shelving, storage, and window seats are hallmarks of Cleveland Craftsman homes. They offer beauty and functionality by making the most of every inch of space.
Family-Centered Plans
Many Cleveland Craftsman homes were designed with family living in mind, often featuring breakfast nooks and open kitchens that bring everyone together. These thoughtful layouts create a warm, communal space where families can connect daily.
Handcrafted Details
Cleveland Craftsman homes showcase handcrafted woodwork, from exposed beams to intricately detailed doors. These custom details highlight the craftsmanship and personal touch that make each home unique.
Earthy Color Palettes
Craftsman homes often use colors inspired by nature, such as olive greens, deep browns, and rich reds, reflecting Cleveland’s surrounding landscape. These earthy tones help create a calm, welcoming environment grounded in the outdoors.
Natural Materials
Natural materials, from stone foundations to wood siding, are essential in Cleveland Craftsman architecture. These materials enhance the home’s aesthetic and connect it to the region's natural surroundings.
Common Home Styles in the Cleveland Area
At Chagrin River Company, we’ve spent decades working on a wide range of home styles, each with its own unique charm and history. Knowing the defining features of these styles can help you choose the perfect fit for your lifestyle and future home improvements. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common home styles in the Cleveland area.
Colonial
Colonial homes are known for their symmetrical facades and steeply pitched roofs. We’ve remodeled many Colonial-style homes in Cleveland, preserving their traditional charm while updating them for modern living.
Western Reserve
Western Reserve architecture, native to northeastern Ohio, blends Federal and Georgian styles. Our team has extensive experience restoring these homes, maintaining their historic features while adding modern touches.
Georgian
Georgian homes are grand, with brick facades and classical proportions. We have worked on numerous Georgian home projects in Cleveland, paying particular attention to authentic details and high-quality finishes.
Contemporary Mix
A fusion of styles, contemporary homes in Cleveland often borrow from mid-century modern and industrial designs. Our two in-house designers work closely with homeowners to blend these elements into functional, stylish spaces.
Tudor
Tudor homes are famous for their steep roofs and timber framing. Our design-build approach is ideal for maintaining the historic look of Cleveland Tudor homes while improving energy efficiency and modern comforts.
How to Choose the Right Home Architecture Style for You
Choosing the right architectural style for your Cleveland home requires careful consideration of your lifestyle, tastes, and long-term goals. These are a few tips to help you pick the best home for you and your family:
Find Inspiration
Take the time to explore different architectural styles in Cleveland; search the internet and social media, or take a drive to see all your options. From the cozy charm of Craftsman homes to the elegance of Georgian designs, discovering the style that resonates with you is key to refining your vision.
Make Sure It Fits Your Style and Personality
Your home should be a true reflection of who you are. Selecting a style that aligns with your personality will make your space feel meaningful and comfortable.
Consider the Resale Value
While your taste matters, it's also important to think about resale value. Choosing a design with broad appeal can help ensure your home remains a substantial investment.
Let Us Bring Your Dream Home to Life
For over 35 years, Chagrin River Company has been helping families in the Cleveland area turn their dream homes into reality. Our award-winning design-build team specializes in finish carpentry, ensuring every home we touch reflects the craftsmanship and beauty that Craftsman-style homes are known for.
Ready to start your home renovation journey? Contact us today to learn more about how we can help enhance your home, no matter its design.
