--- title: "Craftsman Construction — Design-Build Firms | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/craftsman-construction-pfvwus-pf~1417749469 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1417749469.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Craftsman Construction" category: ["Design-Build Firms"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/1633729c0e27571c_8862-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "please call for appointment, The Plains, Virginia 20198, United States" latitude: 38.8707 longitude: -77.7608 phone: "(540) 908-2030" website: http://www.craftsmanbuilds.com rating: 5 review_count: 29 best_of_houzz_awards: 10 followers: 97 last_updated: 2026-08-25 --- # Craftsman Construction Original Houzz profile: [Craftsman Construction](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/craftsman-construction-pfvwus-pf~1417749469) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Design-Build Firms - **Location:** The Plains, VA - **Serves:** Leesburg, Manassas, Winchester, Gainesville, Stone Ridge, Front Royal, New Baltimore, Warrenton, Bealeton, Marshall, Bull Run Mountain Estates, Haymarket, Middleburg, Opal, The Plains, Aldie, Midland, Upperville, Rectortown, Calverton, Amissville, Bethal, Bristow, Broad Run, Casanova, Catharpin, Delaplane, Gainsville, Halfway, Hume, Jeffersonton, Linden, Markham, Old Tavern, Orlean, Vint Hill Farm Station, Wellington - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (29 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 10 awards (2014–2026), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - 5 Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - High-end - Offers Custom Work Welcome to Craftsman Construction Northern Virginia’s Trusted Design-Build Custom Home Builder Your home is likely the biggest investment you’ll ever make—but more importantly, it’s the place where your life unfolds. At Craftsman Construction, we believe a home should be more than just four walls. It should reflect how you live, what you value, and who you love. That’s why we’re committed to helping you build a home that supports your lifestyle, your family, and your future. A Custom Home Built Around You Every great home starts with great questions. From day one, we take the time to understand how your family lives, works, and relaxes. Planning to age in place? Need accessibility for a family member with a disability? Want flexible space for guests, hobbies, or multigenerational living? We design with purpose—creating a home that fits your lifestyle today and adapts to your needs for tomorrow. Design-Build Experts in Energy-Efficient Construction At Craftsman Construction, we specialize in custom design-build projects with a strong focus on energy conservation and sustainable materials. Our clients—primarily middle- and upper-income families—come to us for smarter, healthier, more efficient homes. Our integrated Design-Build Process keeps everything under one roof: ✅ Architectural Design ✅ Engineering & Permitting ✅ Materials Selection ✅ Project Management & Construction This streamlined approach reduces delays, avoids miscommunication, and helps us deliver projects on time and on budget—without sacrificing quality. More Than a Builder—We’re Your Guide Building a home involves hundreds of decisions. We help you make the right ones. Our team actively researches the latest innovations in building products and attends national trade shows to stay ahead of the curve. If we find a new solution that improves energy efficiency, beauty, or function—we make it part of your home. We’re committed to using only materials and components that meet our standards for durability and long-term performance. That means less maintenance, lower energy bills, and a home that holds its value. Hands-On from Start to Finish Unlike many builders, we don’t disappear after the plans are drawn. From the foundation to the final coat of paint, our team is on site, hands-on, and fully invested in every detail of your home. Our commitment to craftsmanship runs deep. It’s not just something we say—it’s how we work. ### Services Provided - Custom Homes - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Architectural Design - Building Design - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Architectural Drawings - Design Consultation - Energy-Efficient Homes - Floor Plans - Universal Design - Green Building - Sustainable Design - Handicap-Accessible Design - Log Home Construction - Brewery Construction - Custom Home - Design/Build - General Contracting - Winery Construction ### Areas Served - Leesburg - Manassas - Winchester - Gainesville - Stone Ridge - Front Royal - New Baltimore - Warrenton - Bealeton - Marshall - Bull Run Mountain Estates - Haymarket - Middleburg - Opal - The Plains - Aldie - Midland - Upperville - Rectortown - Calverton - Amissville - Bethal - Bristow - Broad Run - Casanova - Catharpin - Delaplane - Gainsville - Halfway - Hume - Jeffersonton - Linden - Markham - Old Tavern - Orlean - Vint Hill Farm Station - Wellington ### Typical Job Cost $500,000 - 10 million Custom Home pricing from small homes to estate homes ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Craftsman Construction | | Address | please call for appointment, The Plains, Virginia 20198, United States | | Phone | (540) 908-2030 | | Website | http://www.craftsmanbuilds.com | | License Number | VA Class A \# 2705134456 | | Followers on Houzz | 97 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — http://www.facebook.com/craftsmanconstructionva ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Craftsman Construction](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/craftsman-construction-pfvwus-pf~1417749469) - **Website:** http://www.craftsmanbuilds.com - **Phone:** (540) 908-2030 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - NAHB Certified Master Green Builder - NAHB Certified Graduate Master Builder - NAHB Certified Aging In Place Specialist - Earth Craft Of VA Green Builder - Energy Star Green Builder - OSHA Certified Construction Safety Course - BPI Certified Building Analyst - BPI Certified Envelope Professional - **Best of Houzz:** 10 awards (2014–2026), for Service. **Affiliations** - [National Association of Home Builders](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/national-association-of-home-builders-pfvwus-pf~562065019) - [AIBD - American Institute of Building Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aibd-american-institute-of-building-design-pfvwus-pf~1544540709) - [NAHB Certified Green Professional](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nahb-certified-green-professional-pfvwus-pf~1100930283) - [NAHB Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nahb-certified-aging-in-place-specialist-pfvwus-pf~471784673) - [NAHB Certified Graduate Builder](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nahb-certified-graduate-builder-pfvwus-pf~27188443) - [NAHB Graduate Master Builder](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nahb-graduate-master-builder-pfvwus-pf~186571986) - [NAHB Master Certified Green Professional](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nahb-master-certified-green-professional-pfvwus-pf~941546691) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 29 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Tamara and Mark Harty, Sept. 2025** > My husband and I highly recommend Craftsman Construction in Northern VA. Craftsman was highly recommended to us by a neighbor who had Craftsman build their multimillion-dollar home. Craftsman takes great care and pride in their work. From start to finish, there was no comparison between this company and any of the other contracting companies we obtained estimates and designs from. We retained Craftsman to do a large kitchen, laundry and half bath remodel. The remodel included removing one large wall, building out a walk-in pantry, a drip closet in the laundry room, a utility room for our new water treatment system, redirecting the flow into our kitchen from the hallway, removing a partial wall, enlarging our kitchen window, moving our French door over several feet, and doing extensive brick work. Craftsman devised in-depth renderings of our new kitchen area, being very mindful of our extensive “wish list” for what we had been dreaming of for several years and making it a reality. The renderings Craftsman’s owner, Jerry Jackness, produced in record time were extremely well-thought out, and with a few minor adjustments to the design, completely nailed what we wanted. Clearly Jerry understood our vision and had vast experience in building design and construction when he produced architectural grade renderings for our remodel. This gave us great comfort, especially when he told us that his subcontractors had been working with him for at least ten years and he was very particular about their work. Jerry proposed reasonable start and completion dates, was extremely organized, wonderful to work with, and was great at keeping us on track with selecting materials and guiding us through the entire process. If we selected something that Jerry did not feel was up to par, he let us know that we would not be happy with the selection and suggested where we should go to choose a better product or material. Jerry is very cognizant about not inconveniencing his clients any longer than necessary and worked diligently to keep our project on track. Jerry was also very good at explaining certain design fads that would date our kitchen and in selecting quality materials that fit our home’s character and the warmth we wanted in our new space to entertain our frequent guests. We loved that Jerry and his team work on one project at a time. This focus kept the project on time and on budget and really cemented a strong relationship with him and his crew. There was never a day when we worried about having Jerry and his crew in our home or that he would not show up as planned. Jerry and his team are true craftsmen who worked solidly from the time they arrived until they departed and kept the workplace safe and clean. It is so satisfying having a quality kitchen to come home to and to have our guests exclaim, “Wow!” with wide eyes and smiles as they take it all in. Please do yourself a favor and hire the very best with Craftsman Construction! **★★★★★ — Alexander Jeffries - The structure is a gallery ho, Dec. 2024** > Over the past twenty years, my husband, an architect, and I have had the exciting experience of working with Craftsman Construction as they helped design and build a variety of residences and art studios for us. The latest structure is a very unique concept and serves both as an art studio and unique sanctuary for family gatherings. Photos of the interior and exterior should be added to this writing, since it is an "out of this world" experience to walk in the front door. Watching the building evolve was incredible, and we had a world-class team of craftsmen pulling it all together. **★★★★★ — Brandon, Dec. 2024** > We recently worked with Jerry on a home renovation project that included adding a master bedroom to the basement and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the results. The team was incredibly professional, attentive to our needs, and communicative throughout the entire process. They helped us design a space that feels luxurious, functional, and perfectly tailored to the style of our current home. The quality of craftsmanship is evident in every detail—from the flawless paintwork to the custom-built features. The project was completed on time and within budget, which speaks volumes about the team’s organization and dedication. We truly feel like we’ve added so much value to our home, both in terms of comfort and aesthetics. We highly recommend Craftsman Construction for anyone considering a home renovation. **★★★★★ — Megan and Tom Wilson, Nov. 2024** > Jerry is very professional and organized! A true craftsman that takes pride in his work! A job very well done and a pleasure to do business with! Would most definitely hire again! AAA+++ rating!!! **★★★★★ — Alexander Jeffries - The structure is a gallery ho, Dec. 2023** > Jerry is a very careful craftsman. Especially noteworthy, also, is the pride he also takes in the quality of his workmen. As an architect, I have commissioned him to build many buildings for us over the past twenty years, and all through these projects we have perfected our learning curves together. All of our buildings enjoy a very high level of care. I just can't think of a better person to work with. **★★★★★ — Karen Stanford, Dec. 2023** > We had a great experience in working with Jerry and his crew, and couldn't be more pleased with the results! They installed custom tilework in our foyer and completely remodeled our mudroom, converting closets and a small laundry into a mudroom with custom cubbies and shelving. Highly recommend! **★★★★★ — Sharon Molster, Dec. 2023** > Working with Jerry and his crew was an absolute pleasure from day one. Our project was small, however very important to us. Jerry was truly invested in helping us design a renovation on our 18th century cabin and bathroom. He was thoughtful in selecting materials that would complement the 200-year-old cabin! We are thrilled with the end results. The crew did a truly magnificent job!! Jerry is easy to communicate with, great about answering questions and addressing concerns promptly, and wonderfully accommodating. He and his crew take pride in working efficiently and neatly, and in exceeding clients’ expectations. > > Through the process, Jerry put my mind at ease, and gave me confidence that my best interests were his top priority. He and his crew are among the nicest, most professional, and talented people I’ve worked with. I would enthusiastically recommend Craftsman’s Construction for projects big and small. **★★★★★ — HU-763050682, Nov. 2022** > Jerry Jackness completed new home construction for us in July 2022. We engaged Jerry for the design phase and subsequent build project. He carefully prepared a full schedule build quote plus allowances, and answered all of our questions regarding what to expect regarding every phase of the project. Jerry and his team overcame occasional supply chain issues, suggested wonderful details and finishes, and he was not happy until we were happy. Jerry’s obsession with quality and completeness are a rare trait in today’s market. We are now nestled in our new home and thrilled with every aspect. We give Jerry and Craftsman Construction our highest recommendation. **★★★★★ — Sue Wyatt, Nov. 2022** > Craftsman Construction has been helping me with various repairs and updates to my home. This year we are replacing all the sliding doors. Mr. Jackness, is prompt and thorough in his work. He measured twice each of the 8 doors, not wanting to miss some slight variation in the design. Additionally, when I had some questions about the product we would be installing, he arranged to have the representative come out to my home and discuss the options, colors, and other concerns that I had. He also measured again, so I am confident that the doors will be just right! > > Supply chain issues have caused the project to be slower than I had wanted, but Mr. Jackness made sure that he told me that at the start so I do not have unrealistic expectations. I'm looking forward to the finished product! > > Craftsman Construction's office staff is also very helpful and will call with updates and additional information throughout the process. **★★★★★ — HU-343227205, Dec. 2021** > My wife and I spent ten years planning our dream house, and fortune could not have shone brighter on us finding Jerry Jackness and Craftsman Construction. We engaged Jerry beginning with initial design, and he transformed our scrapbook of notes and narrative into a beautiful, highly energy-efficient design incorporating leading edge building practices and materials. With the house now well into construction, we have been in awe of his commitment to quality and craftsmanship. No detail has been too small, and Jerry approaches every facet as if he were building his own dream home. He offers his own guidance and vision, but his ultimate goal is always our satisfaction. His crew and contractors reflect his joy in a job well-done. We give Jerry, his wife Fay, and the entire Craftsman team our highest recommendation. **★★★★★ — HU-785951058, Dec. 2021** > I am planning to sell my home within the next couple of years and wanted to get started on some cosmetic repairs, that included painting the exterior of my home and repairing the deck. Jerry came over and looked at the deck and recommended an innovative and beautiful solution! The deck was repaired in short order and the crew was professional, efficient, and cleaned and removed all the debris in an efficient manner. > The painting contractor was also very good and the crew was well managed, efficient, and professional. I am delighted with the color and the job and the house looks great! Everyone who has visited since the jobs were completed this past summer (2021) has commented on how nice everything looks. > Jerry and his staff really went above an beyond. I am new to the home repair and updating game and Jerry was very helpful in explaining everything, answered all my questions, and helped me develop priorities for planning the remaining repairs I need to make before selling. Fay, in the office, called to check on progress during the painting and deck revitalization to make sure there were no issues and that I was happy with the work and the progress, Once the work was completed, Jerry came out quickly to inspected the work and ensure that the work site was cleaned up and all trash removed. > I will definitely be calling them as I move along with my plans and look forward to working with such an engaged and helpful team. **★★★★★ — reiley\_mc, Dec. 2020** > Jerry, the owner of Craftsman Construction, has dedicated himself to the construction of our new home. He brings creativity and experience to every aspect of the project and brings elegant solutions to the unexpected but inevitable challenges that come with custom building. He is all about quality of product and workmanship; he truly is a craftsman. Our home will be done in a few months and Jerry, and his craftsmen, should be as proud of the finished product as we are delighted with it! ## Selected projects - [CUSTOM HOME IN HAYMARKET VA.](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-home-in-haymarket-va-pj-vj~6534431) - Location: Haymarket, VA - Photos: 92 - Description: Custom home - [POND HOUSE](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pond-house-pj-vj~7094586) - Location: Reva, VA - Photos: 39 - Description: This project started out as an AirBnb house. It was designed by us with 2 Master Suites, so it could be rented by 2 couples. It is a beautiful country house situated right on a nice pond. After we completed the design and started construction the homeowner decided that he loved the house so much that he decided to move in himself. The house has many energy efficient features such as on demand hot water heater, spray foam insulation, ICF (insulated concrete forms) for the basement walls, ultra-hi… - [CUSTOM HOME IN FRONT ROYAL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-home-in-front-royal-pj-vj~5618423) - Location: Front Royal, VA - Photos: 91 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   This house was a real pleasure to build. First the style of the house has a lot of character; second the Clients were some of the nicest people I have ever worked for. This house is a retirement home for my Clients. When we set out to design this house we kept in mind that… - [Bentonville Custom Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bentonville-custom-home-pj-vj~1440042) - Location: Bentonville, VA - Photos: 82 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   This project might be my favorite of all my projects. I was approached by the Client to build a dream home for his parents. They have been living in the same small house for over 30 years in the city and they wanted to retire to the country side. They owned a large parcel… - [Artist Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/artist-retreat-pj-vj~7573979) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 14 - Description: How to start? I've had the privilege of knowing Mr. Jeffries for nearly 20 years, and in that time, he proved to be an exceptionally unique individual. Known for his strong opinions on how things should be done, our relationship evolved into one of mutual respect for each other's talents. So, when Mr. Jeffries reached out to me about designing his art studio, I knew it would be something extraordinary. At this stage, he was struggling with drawing, so I offered to take on the task. It was clear… - [Fleming Custom Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fleming-custom-home-pj-vj~238734) - Location: The Plains, VA - Photos: 65 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   When the daughter of an old client of ours decided she was ready for her 1st home dad said give Craftsman Construction a call. We love this kind of customer loyalty. Dad is a retired Architect so he drew up the plans for his daughters new house. Since she had modest needs… - [House Remodel Gainesville, VA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-remodel-gainesville-va-pj-vj~7317817) - Location: Gainesville, VA - Photos: 92 - Description: This remodel had multiple projects. The main project was removing all the flooring in the house and replacing with new tile floors. All 3 levels had the carpet removed and new tile flooring installed. The Foyer had an English style tile floor. This floor was particularly complex as all the pieces where individually laid. This was thousands of little 1" and 2" and 4" tiles laid in a pattern representing a typical British entry foyer. Then the client wanted a barrel ceiling built in the hallway al… - [Custom Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-kitchen-pj-vj~7664977) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 43 - Description: This project posed a unique challenge: the original space consisted of three separate rooms that lacked cohesion and functionality. Our solution was to reimagine the layout entirely, combining all three rooms into a single, flowing space tailored to our client’s lifestyle. We began by opening up the floor plan to create a unified kitchen and living area. As part of the transformation, we also remodeled the adjacent laundry room and powder room to match the updated kitchen design for a cohesive l… - [Middleburg Custom Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/middleburg-custom-home-pj-vj~35619) - Location: The Plains, VA - Photos: 24 - Description: CUSTOM ESTATE IN MIDDLEBURG Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   This projects was a sprawling 61 acre eclectic Tuscan style estate named Fidelio after Beethoven's opera of the same name. This project is located in the rolling hills of the Virginia country side. This house was also featured in Home & Design Magazin… - [Residential Sports Complex](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/residential-sports-complex-pj-vj~2849628) - Location: Potomac, MD - Photos: 12 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   The client wanted to have all his favorite sports at his finger tips and this building fits the bill. With a regulation tennis court, basketball hoops that retract out of the way and an Ice Hockey ring, there’s not much you can’t do in this building. In the spring and fall… - [Potomac, Md Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/potomac-md-home-pj-vj~35572) - Location: Potomac, MD - Photos: 40 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   - [Potomac Pool House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/potomac-pool-house-pj-vj~1994742) - Location: Potomac, MD - Photos: 6 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   With the clients demand for a year round structure built with the finest materials available the architects went to work. This pool house has it all with a retractable glass roof that opens with the touch of a button. The granite pool deck and granite walls with inlays mak… - [Effingham Winery](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/effingham-winery-pj-vj~2143306) - Location: Nokesville, VA - Photos: 24 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   Effingham Manor is a charming, historic property with a unique story and stunning beauty. Nestled amid the country side of Virginia’s Prince William County, this once 42 square mile estate includes a 250 year old manor house, a multi-tiered English garden, old slave quarte… - [Shenandoah Custom Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/shenandoah-custom-home-pj-vj~245721) - Location: Edinburg, VA - Photos: 19 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   This home was built with craftsman details. From the deep overhangs on the roof to the tapered stone columns, this house has the period feel of the craftsman era. Using the concept of the Not So Big House by Sarah Susanka the square footage is kept to a minimum but the mat… - [Chattins Run House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/chattins-run-house-pj-vj~35564) - Location: Middleburg, VA - Photos: 29 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   This house dates back to 1795 when Benjamin Rust who rented the land from George Washington built the original house. In 1832 a two story addition was added to the original house. During the Civil War confederate soldiers made extensive use of the house. In 1945 the origin… - [Complete House Remodel Front Royal](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/complete-house-remodel-front-royal-pj-vj~2147611) - Location: Front Royal, VA - Photos: 16 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   This house was built in the 50’s and it was a real mess. The previous owner had abandoned the property and it was up to Craftsman Construction to save it. The first thing we did was dig up the entire foundation and waterproof it. After this we completely gutted the interio… - [Custom Home In The Plains VA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-home-in-the-plains-va-pj-vj~2142655) - Location: The Plains, VA - Photos: 23 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   This Super Energy Efficient Home Keeps Utility Bills Under $100 The owner of this house wanted the most energy efficient house he could afford. After the architect designed an affordable floor plan that kept the cost of construction down, Craftsman Construction went to wor… - [Estate In Maryland](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/estate-in-maryland-pj-vj~2849718) - Location: Potomac, MD - Photos: 19 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   This was a once in a life time project. This project was so massive it took 3 years to complete. Believe it or not this was an addition to the already large home. First we started out adding a Porte cachere to the front of the original home. The next project was to remove… - [Garage-studio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/garage-studio-pj-vj~2147524) - Location: The Plains, VA - Photos: 18 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   When an old client of ours decided he needed more storage space he called Craftsman Construction. The client wanted a quaint little garage that was large on details. The garage had to have space for the client’s photography hobby, a bathroom for the grounds keeper, and a u… - [Addition To 100 Year Old House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/addition-to-100-year-old-house-pj-vj~2233881) - Location: The Plains, VA - Photos: 21 - Description:   Watch Our Video, \THE QUALITY SOLUTION\. \WATCH NOW\   The owner of this house was experiencing claustrophobia with 3 teenage kids they desperately needed more space. The clients were very ecology minded and as such we had to be as Green as we could. They wanted to use as many natural materials as possible as well as being ene… [See all 33 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/craftsman-construction-pfvwus-pf~1417749469) ## Community Q&A **Q: Help! Which exterior???** *(in Design Dilemma)* Which do you like better? Window in garage or window in bonus? A: If the shutters are just for show consider leaving them off. They never look right when they are just for show. **Q: Tricky floors...** *(in Design Dilemma)* We're about to renovate this house from the 1920's. The floors have two kinds of wood in chiaro-scuro patterns, while the doors are in red wood. We're struggling to come up with ideas for walls and furniture that would blend nicely into the existing woodwork. Please share your suggestions. Pictures of similar floors in decorated rooms would be especially welcome! A: That is one of the most interesting floors i have ever seen, wish it was in my house **Q: Please help! I would so love to redo this UGLY fireplace made of brick** *(in Design Dilemma)* My fireplace is UGLY as you can see it needs a makeover BAD! I have been wanting to do something to it, but I need some ideas. I really do not like the brick and the mantle is horrific. Please help! A: Here is a really ugly fireplace that we converted. The finished product is slate tiles and a mantle kit that i modified. **Q: KITCHEN CABINET DESIGN PASS THRU TO DINING ROOM** *(in Design Dilemma)* I need help with this design- Kitchen side 139" wall space with 54 x42" window pass thru to dining room. Using white shaker cabinets 12" deep base with bar sink in kitchen - want to use wall cabinets with glass and granite top for buffet. going to mirror same on dining room side in black length of wall is 120" wall space - need HELP with good design of cabinet balance on both sides...THANK YOU. A: I would try and center the sink base cabinet on the window opening. After the other base cabinets are installed, draw a plumb line from the side of the base cabinet on the left of the window. Now determine the size of the trim on the opening, looks like it is a wide trim from the photo. The space from the plumb line to the trim will determine the maximum cabinet i would install on the left side. I would have a granite top made for the pass thru as well to match the kitchen top. To balance determine space to right of window and use proper size cabinet to finish. This way the window will look balanced. **Q: where is the entry to the balcony?what r pocket doors?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Pocket doors are doors that slide into the wall **Q: Painted Interior Doors with Stained Trim ?** *(in Design Dilemma)* New construction - time to think about colors!! I do prefer stained window trim and baseboards - but, am considering painted doors (coordinated just a shade or two darker than interior wall color). Wood trim will be medium-to-light stain. This combo is hard to find example of -- but have attached one I found (altho not quite the right shades). If anyone has anything to share -- boy, I'd to see or hear about it. Thanks! A: I have all stained trim and doors in my craftsman style home with painted windows. I love your idea of painting the doors and staining the trim, but you need to be careful here. The trim in the picture you are using looks like knotty pine. This wood is way to busy and really pulls your eye to it. Also it is a wood that is hard to stain properly as it looks blotchy. If you want to pull this off you need to use a more subtle grain pattern. Mahogany or cherry would be a great choice. This are very warm woods. The cherry will age nicely over time as it is photo sensitive. Sherwin Williams has an Arts & Crafts color pallet that has some great period colors that would go well with the stained wood. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-25.*