Creating The Perfect Craftsman Bathroom
With so many homeowners looking to update their spaces, Craftsman interiors have become a popular design choice. Derived from the classic Craftsman-styles of the 1920s, Vintage Craftsman aesthetic features heavy woodwork, earthy colors, built-in cabinetry, and unique tilework.
Craftsman design, also referred to as Arts and Crafts or Craftsman-style, is an architectural and interior design movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It's characterized by a focus on craftsmanship, natural materials, and simplicity. In the context of bathroom design, Craftsman style emphasizes creating warm, inviting spaces with attention to detail and handcrafted elements.
While Craftsman interiors have been a popular design inspiration for years, Vintage Craftsman has started to grow.
But how do Vintage Craftsman and Craftsman design differ? The biggest difference: Vintage Craftsman puts an emphasis on historical restoration and renovation, opting for pieces and design elements that are true to character and form, especially if the home is an original, historic build. Craftsman design is a more modern take on the traditional style, with most elements being brand new and clean-cut.
Regardless of whether you choose to go with Craftsman interior design or Vintage Craftsman, here are a few styling tips to help you create the perfect look for your bathroom:
Opt for Natural Materials
Natural materials are a hallmark piece of Craftsman design. For woods, use hardwoods like oak, cherry or maple for vanities, cabinetry, and trim work. These rich woods create a sense of warmth – opt for a matte finish so natural woodgrains can shine through. If possible, use natural stone for countertops or flooring. Brighten up your bathroom with a classic Carrara marble or create a moody setting with soapstone.
Wow with Woodwork
Craftsman interiors are probably best known – and renowned – for their intricate woodwork. Shaker-Style cabinetry with recessed panels and clean lines is a classic way to bring Craftsman to your space, and unique carved details give a touch of personality. Adding decorative wood to bathroom walls with wainscoting and beadboard can also create beautiful texture against cleaner finishes.
The Perfect Palette
Drawing inspiration from nature, warm and neutral tones are a go-to for the Craftsman aesthetic. Mossy greens, deep browns, muted blues and even soft yellows are perfect choices. If you prefer a white-toned bathroom, picking a color that is slightly taupe is recommended for this interior style.
Finding Your Fixtures
Simplicity and functionality are at the forefront of Craftsman design. When choosing your fixtures and hardware, clean lines and timeless styles are at the top of the list. Look for faucets and drawer pulls that are simple and complement the woodwork. Oil-rubbed bronze or brushed nickel are the most common finishes for Craftsman styling.
Storage Solutions
Craftsman bathrooms will often incorporate storage solutions that maintain a clutter-free look. Built-in cabinets are true to the era, but any option will create that functionality. Cabinets with glass doors or vanities with open shelves integrated in the design are perfect options that allow you to display your towels and other necessities.
If you’re fortunate enough to live in a true Craftsman-era home, you might find many of these design pieces already in place and ready for a fresh update. To bring the Vintage Craftsman to life, remember to aim for authenticity as much as possible. If you’re hoping to create a lived-in feel for a non-era home, design your space with these options in mind.
Our Vanity Suggestions
We have an entire collection of vanities and mirrors that can suit Craftsman styles, whether you’re looking for an authentic touch or a more modern take on the classic design.
Here are some of our favorites:
Brookfield
This collection features beautiful wood finishes (like Country Oak, Warm Cherry, Burnished Mahogany and Antique Black) that will warm up your space. Traditional carved detailing, raised panel doors, and Antique Bronze-finished hardware create the perfect vintage touch.
Bristol
We love the hand-turned wooden feet on the Bristol vanity, and its classic Shaker-Style doors and drawers are the perfect Craftsman design. The Whitewashed Walnut finish gives a more modern look of natural wood, and Vintage Vanilla creates a beautiful and warm off-white look.
Brittany
It doesn’t get much more classic than our best-selling Brittany collection. With sizes ranging from 30” to 72” and six beautiful finishes, Brittany is a great choice for traditional style.
Chicago
Our Whitewashed Walnut Chicago vanity blends the traditional design with a modern touch perfectly. Shaker-Style doors and drawers are complemented by the brushed nickel hardware and legs, giving you a clean look for your bathroom.
Malibu
This vanity has been a best-seller for years, and it’s easy to see why. The apothecary-style drawers, detailed paneling, console shelf and warm, Honey Alder finish creates an authentic feel of a vintage piece.
Breckenridge
Similar to the Chicago with its sleek and modern appearance, but a nod to the vintage-inspired Malibu, our Breckenridge vanity gives plenty of internal storage with a classic console. If you’re looking for Craftsman charm with an updated look, Breckenridge is the perfect option.
