Study the Timeless Elements of Arts-and-Crafts Style

Clean lines, quality workmanship and natural materials are the hallmarks of arts-and-crafts style, which is experiencing a revival.

Wood is a key feature of the arts-and-crafts style. It is used for simple, wide molding, trim, wainscoting and doors, and often is contrasted with plain white or light-colored walls. The grain of the wood is important, and furniture and trim are never painted but always stained a rich warm shade of brown. Teak and oak, especially quarter-sawn oak, are commonly used woods.
Attention to the details of design is important to the look. For example, the woodwork of the door might be mimicked in the window trim.
No one feature stands out in an arts-and-crafts home. Everything works together harmoniously.
Low ceilings are common, as is exposed woodwork. A picture rail might be used around the room at door height, which brings the feeling of the ceiling lower.
Creating a relationship to the outside is another key element of the style.
Pedestal sinks, built-in medicine cabinets, claw-foot bathtubs and simple details in tile work and trim are typical in the bath. So are white and cream colors used for tiles and walls. The look is simple and functional.