The Arts and Crafts Style of Homes

In the world of architecture and interior design, there's a timeless and enduring style that has captivated generations - Arts and Crafts. Many of our homes here at Stancliffe have been designed with this style in mind, to create beautiful homes with plenty of charm.

Rooted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Arts and Crafts design movement was a reaction to the industrial revolution, celebrating craftsmanship, simplicity, and a connection to nature. What inspired this movement, and what are its key features that continue to inspire homeowners today?

The Arts and Crafts movement emerged as a response to the mass-produced, often soulless goods of the industrial era. Visionaries like William Morris and John Ruskin believed in a return to handcrafted, quality items. It’s likely they were inspired by the Mingei folk art movement in Japan, where everyday ordinary items are celebrated for their beauty and there is a focus on quality craftsmanship. They sought to reconnect with nature and authenticity, championing local materials and skilled artisans.

The Arts and Crafts style in home exteriors like you see today, is a celebration of organic architecture. Characterised by its harmony with nature, Arts and Crafts homes often feature:

  • Low-pitched roofs with exposed rafters

  • Deep eaves

  • Large, inviting front porches

  • Handcrafted details such as stone or brickwork, wooden siding, and intricate joinery lend a sense of authenticity and craftsmanship to the façade

  • Windows are typically arranged asymmetrically with multi-paned casements


    The Arts and Crafts exterior design embraces simplicity, earthy colour palettes, and a connection to the landscape, creating homes that blend seamlessly with their surroundings and exude timeless charm.

Internally, the key features of Arts and Crafts homes can include the below:

  1. Natural Materials: Arts and Crafts interiors feature natural materials like wood, stone, and metal, bringing the outdoors in

  2. Handcrafted Details: Intricate craftsmanship is a hallmark, with exposed joinery and finely detailed woodwork

  3. Simple Lines: Clean, unadorned lines and functional furniture are the essence of this style

  4. Earth Tones: A palette of earthy, muted tones reflects the connection to nature

  5. Stained Glass: Beautiful stained glass windows and light fixtures add a touch of artistry and colour

  6. Textiles: Textiles like woven rugs, tapestries, and upholstery with botanical motifs infuse warmth



Stancliffe Homes are a Chesterfield based house builder based in Derbyshire. They specialise in high quality new build homes, ranging from apartments, to houses and bungalows.

If you are looking for your new homes please get in touch. Our current developments are based in Tansley and Bolsover.

Sam Jones