10 Popular Craftsman Style Window Ideas

Craftsman-style windows can add a much-needed touch of character and coziness to your house. These traditional windows have a classic appeal that has touched the hearts of people since the early 1900s. 

Let’s walk through some popular Craftsman-style concepts to enhance your space and add authenticity to your home.

What Are Craftsman Style Windows?

Craftsman windows originated from the Arts and Crafts movement of the early 20th century. They put a whole lot of emphasis on using natural materials, the kind of honest craftsmanship that shows, and beauty that’s actually functional, not some unnecessary frilly nonsense.

The major features are:

• Wide, flat trim (typically 41/2 or wider)
• Simple, clean lines
• Natural colors or natural wood.

Consider craftsman windows the architectural handshake, simple, sincere, and built to last. 

Top 10 Craftsman Style Window Ideas

These ten concepts include basic trim additions to the entire replacement of windows. 

They each bring the fresh craftsman character to your location in their own way.  We have listed them from the most general to the more detailed ones. 

You may combine and blend multiple concepts or specialize in one that appeals to the needs of your house. 

The beauty of the craftsman aesthetic is that it is flexible; it can be used in a restored bungalow and a modern construction.

Classic Double-Hung Windows with Top Sash Grilles

This is the classic Craftsman-style window look. The lower sash is clear, allowing a view of the top. The upper sash features patterned grills, usually with six or eight panes.

These double-hung windows are used in bedrooms and the living rooms. The grilles add visual interest, but you can still see the room when sitting or standing.

Why it works: The split top sash creates the craftsman appearance without losing the practicality. 

Window Banks (Sets of Three with Center Focus)

Accent picture windows are used between two smaller double-hung windows to form a gorgeous point of focus. 

This design is for flooding rooms with natural lighting without compromising the craftsman look.

The center picture window has a continuous view, and the flanking windows allow ventilation. 

This form of windows in a single grouping was a trend that was adopted during the early 1900s in Craftsman bungalow-type homes.

Pro tip: Before you begin working on your project, it is important to make sure that your wall can support this configuration structurally. Visit our guide on types of windows for the home to find the best for you.

Wide Interior Window Trim (4½” to 5½” Flat Board Casing)

Interior trim is an important element of Craftsman style. The casing of the window must be made considerably larger than usual trim, considering 41/2 to 51/2 of the profile of a flat board.

The craftsman trim usually contains:

• No fancy curves, just flat casing boards
• A substantial window stool (inner sill)
• Simple cap molding
• Clean, squared corners

Contrasting Exterior Window Trim

Development of contrast on the exterior of your house makes the windows shine. Combine dark colors of the window frame and sash (such as bronze or deep brown) with light exterior trim in cream or tan.

This was a typical feature of the craftsmen’s bungalow houses and remains relevant to date. 

The frame of the window must go well with your siding, and the trim must define the architectural lines.

If you want low-maintenance options, consider new types of vinyl windows. They can help you achieve the look you want.

Art Glass and Stained Glass Accent Windows

Art glass tips you on decorative accent windows that do not cover your space. These are mostly found over doorways, in doorways, or in transom windows.

Art glass and hand-stained wood designs may incorporate:

• Geometric patterns
• Nature designs (typical of arts and crafts designs)
• Uncomplicated elements of medieval design
• Special colors of earthy shades of brown, burgundies, and yellows

A 2024 Houzz survey found that 23 percent of homeowners renovating their homes added decorative glass elements for personalization.

Casement Window Groupings with Vertical Proportions

Outdoor casement windows are hinged in a way that they open outwards. Arrange them in pairs and/or vertically to look up-to-date.

The style is already vertical, and natural proportions are emphasized. They are excellent windows on either side of a fireplace or at the side of an entry door.

Functionality bonus: Casement windows are very airy, as the entire sash is opened.

Picture Windows with Flanking Double-Hung Windows

This is the conventional pattern where a large fixed picture is at the centre with both operating double-hung windows on the sides.

The structure has several functions:

• The best natural lighting is via the center.
• Side-way cross-ventilation.
• Clear sight of your yard or your garden.
• Proportions in architectural work.

Window Seats with Built-In Storage Below

There is nothing like the artisanal appeal of a window seat that is custom-made of wood with integrated storage. 

Place a wide window or window bank in a low position to form a convenient sitting place below.

The millwork around these seats often includes:

• Paneled sides with decorative details
• Lift-up seats reveal storage
• Built-in bookshelves flanking the window
• Cushioned tops for comfort

The feature is a home style that provides functionality and comfort. 

Exterior Window Boxes and Decorative Brackets

Add a Craftsman-style charm to your exterior with window boxes and artistic bracket supports beneath the sills. These mere additions bring out depth and interest.

Look for:

• Minimalistic bracket designs (do not be too luxurious)
• Profane wooden boxes or painted.
• Brackets to suit your columns on the porch.
• Boxes in the size of your window.

Grow flowers or herbs that match the color scheme of your house. The architectural lines are softened by the boxes, but they remain faithful to the crafts movement focuses on making nature a little bit closer to home.

Mixed Window Heights with Clerestory Windows

Install regular-size windows on standard height and the higher windows of the clerestory to provide additional light and privacy.

This works beautifully in:

• Bathrooms (top windows to be private, bottom to look out of the windows)
• Kitchens (cabinets do not obstruct with windows)
• Opposition to the window and door (transom windows above the window and door).
• Large rooms have shallow-roofed roofs that have tails of rafters.

Final Thoughts

Any home will get the warm, character, and old-time charm with craftsman-style windows. 

Restoring a century-old bungalow, or putting the artisan touch on a newer construction, these ideas will provide you with a good starting place.

Keep in mind that the design of the authentic craftsman-built is all about quality materials, sincere building, practicality, and not flashy. 

Take the ones that fit your budget and the architecture of your home, and do not think that you are obliged to do everything immediately.

At Mannlee, you can explore quality window options and find everything you need to make your craftsman-style window vision a reality.

FAQs

1. What kind of windows are best for a Craftsman-style home?

The most authentic choice would be a divided grille that has two windows with the divided grilles at the top sash. Vertical groupings with casement windows also work well. 

2. What is the modern Craftsman style?

The style of modern craftsmen combines the most common features of the period, such as vast trimming and natural material, with modern characteristics such as open space implementation and use of bigger windows. 

3. What is craftsman-style window trim?

Craftsman trim has casing boards that are wide, flat (41/2 to 51/2 wide), and scarcely adorned. It encompasses good window sills, plain cap moulding, and squared corners.

4. Can you mix window styles in a home?

Yes, it is possible to combine styles that have similar proportions and details of trim. It is better to combine casement with double hung windows when the trim in each room or facade has a similar finish and is equal in width.