Craftsman Architecture of the Pacific Northwest
Of the many architectural styles Portland is known for, the Craftsman stands out above the rest. Its sloping roofs, exposed beams, welcoming front porches, and profusion of natural wood celebrate so much about the city’s history and a lasting commitment to craftsmanship from centuries past.
Portland is full of elegant foursquares and charming bungalows—some over a hundred years old, others newer builds designed in harmony with their historic neighbors.
Exterior features to look for in a Craftsman home:
Low-pitched gabled roof (often with wide, overhanging eaves)
Exposed rafters or decorative brackets under the eaves
Tapered square columns supporting the porch roof (often sitting on stone or brick piers)
Deep front porches, often spanning the width of the home
Mixed materials: wood, stone, stucco, or shingles
Dormer windows
Double-hung windows with divided light in the upper sash and a single pane in the lower
Earth-tone color palettes (greens, browns, rusts, and creams)
Decorative beams or braces under gables
Wide window and door trim
Interior features typical of a Craftsman home:
Built-in cabinetry (bookcases, china cabinets, benches)
Coffered or beamed ceilings
Natural woodwork (often oak or fir) throughout
Wainscoting or wood paneling
Fireplace as the focal point, often with a built-in mantel and flanking built-ins
Open floor plan with defined spaces via archways or built-ins
Stained glass or leaded glass windows
Hardwood floors
Picture rails and thick baseboards
Craftsman homes Like Kind agents have sold: