The expression of the fabrication of an interior or a design element that references quality and form.

Craft is an important part of a successful interior. A well-crafted interior demonstrates the passion, attention to detail, and skills of fabricators, and highlights the connections that are an integral part of the making of an object—be it a wooden arm on a chair, a smooth plaster finish, or a finely articulated surface. Becoming proficient at working with a particular material or technique is a lifelong pursuit, and often incorporates the history of a technique. The current renaissance of designer-makers using elemental materials and working by hand, some referencing styles and techniques used centuries ago, points to design’s continued investment in skilled artisanal production.

Ottoman Empire

Influenced by Byzantium, the Arab culture of the Islamic Middle East, and the Persian culture of Iran. Known for rich patterning and motifs (often religious) across designs for carpet weaving, textile arts, and metalsmithing (jewelry and cutlery).

Arts and Crafts Movement

Belief in craftpersonship, the inherent beauty of material, nature as inspiration, and the values of simplicity, unity, and beauty.

Bauhaus

Founded by Walter Gropius in 1919 in Weimar, Germany, and described as a “utopian craft guild combining architecture, sculpture, and painting into a single creative expression” and a craft-based curriculum for artists and designers to make beautiful objects.

Shaker

A style whose guiding principles are utility, simplicity, honesty, and minimalism. Made by the Shakers, a self-sufficient religious community, utilizing locally sourced wood as their main material. Functional in form and proportion.

Mingei

A Japanese movement established by Yanagi Soetsu in the 1920s, framed around the philosophic pillar of “ordinary craft” and the beauty of functional, utilitarian, and everyday objects. It arose around the time of increasing industrialization and urban growth.

Types of Craft

Woodworking

Cabinets, Furniture

Textiles

Weaving, Blankets, Pillows, Wall Hangings, Rugs

Metalworking

Lighting, Cutlery

Ceramics

Tableware

Plaster

Walls, Surfaces, Decorative Elements

Danish

Developed mid-century (1950s), featuring functionalist furniture and architecture. Architect and furniture designer Kaare Klint was known as the father of modern Danish furniture and established a program through the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts.