Oct 12, 2022

Modern vs. Craftsman Style Tiny Homes: What’s the Difference?


Even tiny homes sport a variety of designs and styles for you to choose from. Let’s look at the differences between modern and craftsman-style tiny homes.

Posted by: Amanda Delatorre

Modern vs. Craftsman Style Tiny Homes: What’s the Difference?

Architecture is an art form all its own, and it’s not reserved purely for traditional homes either. Tiny homes have been refined over the years—shifting from utilitarian design philosophy to more expressive and pleasing aesthetics. No designs depict this better than the modern and craftsman-style tiny home. Let’s look at the differences between the two, what each design has to offer, and why anyone in the market for a tiny home should consider them.

Craftsman Tiny Homes

Typically associated with a handmade “artisan” design, craftsman-style tiny homes are distinct because they draw from the designs of 19th-century British architecture. During this era, the craftsman-design philosophy rejected the ongoing mass production of the industrial revolution in favor of artistry only a handmade home could provide. The craftsman style focuses on three philosophies: simplicity, functionality, and natural resources—such as stone or wood elements. The design of a craftsman-style tiny home provides the same style and aesthetic of a traditional craftsman-style home but makes it suitable for the smaller structure and emphasizes the use of wooden beams to create a dramatic accent in place of columns.

Modern Tiny Homes

Modern tiny homes, which shouldn’t be confused with the utilitarian designs of early tiny homes, use a more contemporary design adopted between the 1950s and 1970s. These dynamic designs typically emphasize a minimalist philosophy with clean straight lines, asymmetrical shapes, and a flat roof line to create a truly unique style. Furthermore, tiny homes lend themselves well to the modern style because they use modular pieces made from recycled materials. Such sensibilities were big when the modern style and the idea of tiny homes were first conceived, so they naturally pair well together.

Choosing a Style

Now that you better understand the differences between modern and craftsman-style tiny homes, you should be able to make a more informed decision about which style appeals to your preferences and priorities. At Johnston Contracting Services, our seasoned professionals are happy to answer any questions you may have and help you design a tiny home that best fits your needs. Visit our website or drop by our studio today!

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