Bungalow Architecture
Bungalow Architecture History & Phoenix Roots
Also known as American Craftsman Bungalow (1900s-1930s) — The archetype for the modern Bungalow originated in India during the 1800s when the country was under British rule. They were designed for English officers who wanted small, economical homes that could be built quickly. Laborers constructed low-rise dwellings with wide, covered porches that provided shade from the scorching sun. In the 1880s, Bungalows became fashionable in England as the Arts and Crafts movement popularized, and there was a new focus on returning to handicrafts. The movement picked up steam in America at the turn of the 20th century and Bungalows became the reigning form of architecture across the U.S. They were even sold as prefab kits from companies like Sears.
The word Bungalow comes from the Hindustani word Bangla, which means “belonging to Bengal,” where these small homes first emerged. Bungalows were an adaptation of the local one-story huts found throughout India in the 19th century.
William Morris, a leading founder of the Arts and Crafts movement in England, pushed for a move away from industrialized, machine-made designs in favor of handicrafts. He was moved to build upon the Victorian Queen Anne style home and infused Bungalow architecture into his building. Craftsman and Bungalow architecture were favored by Morris and those in his movement.
When the Arts and Crafts movement gained popularity in America, furniture maker Gustav Stickley, who founded The Craftsman magazine, helped propel the Bungalow style home to dominance.
Businesses like Sears and The Aladdin Company sold prefab kits, making it easy for prospective homeowners to build their own Bungalows with the help of local craftsmen. In addition, after World War II returning veterans purchased affordable Bungalow homes using their G.I. bill funds.
Following World War II, Ranch style homes became more in vogue and the popularity of Bungalows waned. However, they saw a resurgence of interest. Bungalows became the most prominent style of home in many U.S. cities including downtown Phoenix where it was the primary style of the first homes built in neighborhoods like Woodlea, Oakland and Roosevelt.
Bungalows in many sizes were built in most all Historic Phoenix neighborhoods. The high quality, interior & exterior features, and grand porches created a beautiful social display around Phoenix .
