(NewsUSA) - Arts and Crafts - also known as Craftsman - homes were originally constructed as a response to the highly styled, elaborate Victorian popular in the early 20th century. Today, these homes are enjoying a comeback, and many homeowners aspire to create the clean lines and charming design in their own environment.



Craftsman homes imbue warmth and simplicity, a getaway from today's hectic everyday life. By incorporating a few elements with a Craftsman touch, you can transform your house into a cozy and inviting bungalow.

* An inviting entryway: The front door sets the tone for the entire home and adding a premium wood Craftsman-style door, like those offered by Jeld-Wen, can truly add traditional appeal. These wood doors feature clean lines, simple flat panels, squared sticking and optional shelves.

Because incorporating light is important to creating atmosphere in an Arts and Crafts home, doors can also include decorative glass designs that enhance the natural light and ambiance of the house. Selecting a Craftsman entryway can set the stage for an interior's decor and leave a lasting impression on anyone crossing the threshold.

* Earthy appeal: Traditional Arts and Crafts homes are painted in earth tones, emphasizing natural warmth inside and out. Choose greens and blues for a bold splash of color in the great room or living room; paint trim in whites or leave molding a natural wood color for an earthy feel. Creams and taupe have long been associated with the Craftsman style, and incorporating these colors into your home furnishings or decorations will add to its appeal. Bringing plants into your home's interior will also help achieve a warm, natural Craftsman feel.

* The finishing touch: Craftsman or Mission style furniture is an important element in creating a simple, earthy environment in your home. This furniture is extremely popular and can be found in stores as varied as woodworkers' studios, antique shops and even major retailers.

Most often known for its simple but sturdy design, Craftsman furniture, found in a wide variety of wood species including red oak, mahogany and walnut, is recognizable by its slats and spindles, hand hammered copper hardware and geometric lines without ornamentation. With the right pieces in place, furniture can put the finishing touches on your Craftsman home.