Creating the Perfect Craftsman Kitchen

Thu Jul 31 2025

Kitchen Design & Remodeling

Craftsman-style kitchens are beloved for their timeless character, natural materials, and emphasis on craftsmanship. Whether you’re renovating your home or simply refreshing your space, incorporating elements of the classic Craftsman aesthetic can add warmth, function, and beauty to your kitchen.

In this blog, we’ll walk through the key features that define Craftsman kitchens and share helpful tips for bringing this iconic style to life in your own home.

Where Craftsman Style Comes From

Craftsman style originated as part of the Arts and Crafts movement, a response to the mass production of the Industrial Revolution. This design philosophy celebrates handcrafted detail, honest materials, and thoughtful, functional layouts. In the kitchen, that means rich wood cabinetry, stone surfaces, and design elements that highlight craftsmanship and authenticity.

Natural Materials and Earthy Textures

Craftsman kitchens typically use a mix of natural materials like wood, stone, and tile. Wood is especially central to the look, think oak, cherry, maple, or walnut cabinetry with stained or painted finishes. You might also see handmade tile backsplashes, soapstone or granite countertops, and rich hardwood floors. These textures help create the cozy, organic feel that defines the Craftsman look.

Color palettes tend to be inspired by nature. You’ll see warm earth tones, mossy greens, soft grays, and muted blues. These colors work beautifully with natural wood tones and help the space feel grounded and welcoming.

Handcrafted Cabinetry and Built-Ins

In a Craftsman kitchen, cabinetry is more than just storage, it’s a design feature. Look for recessed or Shaker-style doors, visible joinery, and quality hardwoods. Consider custom cabinetry or semi-custom options to get the level of craftsmanship that truly defines the style. Built-ins, like banquettes, hutches, or plate racks, are also signature elements.

Functional Layouts and Open Plans

Craftsman homes often feature open floor plans and layouts that promote flow and function. In the kitchen, that might mean a large central island, wide walkways, and easy access to dining or living areas. Consider incorporating a built-in breakfast nook, bench seating, or a peninsula to echo that cozy, connected feeling.

Design Details That Make a Difference

Exposed beams, mission-style lighting, and artisan hardware are all key design details that can help elevate your Craftsman kitchen. Even simple choices like oil-rubbed bronze knobs or stained glass pendant lights can reinforce the handcrafted look.

For flooring, opt for wide plank wood, slate, or tile that mimics the look of natural stone. Wainscoting or beadboard can also add classic charm.

Panel-Ready and Built-In Appliances

To keep the focus on the natural materials and cabinetry, many homeowners choose panel-ready appliances in Craftsman kitchens. This allows your panel-ready refrigerator, dishwasher, and other major appliances to blend seamlessly with the cabinetry.

Brands like Sub-Zero, Bosch, and Thermador offer panel-ready models that combine performance with timeless design.

Handcrafted and Heritage-Style Ranges

Instead of opting for standard ranges, many homeowners choose handcrafted or heritage-style ranges that complement the Craftsman aesthetic. Brands like ILVE, AGA, and Thermador offer ranges that emphasize old-world craftsmanship, ornate detailing, and rich finishes like brushed brass, matte black, or polished chrome.

Look for features such as:

Rounded corners and retro-inspired knobs
High-quality metals and enamel finishes
Multi-function oven compartments for versatile cooking
Hand-assembled components that reflect artisan attention to detail

These ranges add warmth, sophistication, and functional beauty to your space, while staying true to the handcrafted spirit of the Craftsman kitchen.

Shop with Confidence at Mountain High Appliance

At Mountain High Appliance, we carry a wide range of appliances that fit beautifully with Craftsman kitchen designs. Our showrooms in Colorado Springs, Glenwood Springs, Littleton, Louisville, or Denver are designed to help you visualize how different finishes, appliance styles, and layouts will work together in your home.

Our knowledgeable team can help you explore your options and recommend appliances, including refrigerators, dishwashers, wall ovens, ranges, and more that match both your design vision and cooking needs.

Visit one of our appliance stores today and let us help you create a kitchen that’s timeless, functional, and uniquely yours.

FAQs: Common Craftsman Kitchen Design Questions

1. Can I use colored appliances in a Craftsman kitchen?

Yes. Colored ranges and appliances can serve as beautiful focal points that enhance the warmth and personality of a Craftsman space, especially in complementary tones.

2. Are panel-ready appliances necessary for a Craftsman kitchen?

They're not required, but panel-ready appliances help maintain the visual flow and highlight the custom woodwork that's central to the style.

3. What kind of countertops work well in a Craftsman kitchen?

Natural stone like soapstone, granite, or even butcher block all complement the Craftsman style and provide long-lasting durability.

4. Where can I see examples of Craftsman kitchens in person?

Visit any of our Mountain High Appliance showrooms across Colorado to see a variety of kitchen styles, including layouts and finishes that reflect the Craftsman tradition.