An American Arts and Crafts interior is conscientiously rustic, simulating the rough-hewn surfaces of a preindustrial age, but wisely making the most of its cost-cutting possibilities. It has overtones of Colonial style in its strict simplicity and hints of English moderation in its lack of fussiness or frills. It combines almost-modern design with the warmth of the handicraft tradition. White plaster walls and low ceilings are fitted with broad, exposed beams to create a cottagelike atmosphere. Modest-size windows, squarish in form, are punched into the walls without architectural ornament or framing. They often have leaded-glass panes. Shutters or, more likely, simple woven or printed curtains, are hung to the sills.

Ornament is relatively simple and applied by hand. Decorative stenciling is used a friezelike trim on walls, or to decorate otherwise-unadorned furniture and curtains. Wright and the Greene brothers made sophisticated use of stained-glass accents, evoking the Japanese sensibility that influenced both.

Plain wood floors, in planks rather that parquet, are fitted with hand-knotted Orientals or homemade rag rugs. The colors of the room reflect the soothing hues of the landscape: muted greens, browns, deep golds. Plants, too are important, as another reminder of nature’s bounty.

Lamps and fixtures are in wrought iron, brass or copper and their light is supplemented by the central fireplace which is often surrounded by hand made tiles.

Furniture of the type produced by Stickley and others is relatively large in scale and, despite its unassuming simplicity, can be imposing. Its sturdy retinlinear lines are executed in rough-textured , dark oak.

Accessories are most notably the ceramics produced by both amateur and professional potteries. This period comes alive in its pottery. Many famous potteries are Rookwood, Grueby, and Newcomb.