Photo Credit: Therma-Tru Doors
Inherently a North Eastern style, the Cape Cod Design comes from the historical founders and craftsmen of the area and it’s considered one of the most fundamental American designs. Originally designed as a practical retreat to shield families from the harsh New England winters, the Cape Cod style remains popular because of its adaptable, classic architectural style, the innate flexibility of the simple style and the cost-effective nature of the build. Recently, the social media movement “Cottagecore” has also brought new relevance to this casual modest style.
In addition, this design continues to be extremely popular with both architects/remodelers and buyers because of its affinity with sustainability, as there are many features that utilize local elements and timbers. But what makes this style unique is its lack of adornment, symmetry and flexibility of the floorplan, which lend to the modernization of the style. The individuality of this design can be seen in both the exterior and interior design elements.
The Exterior
The exteriors of the Cape Cod Style are specifically one, one-and-a-half, or two-story often timber frame construction, with a moderately pitched gable. Usually a symmetrical design, the layouts are centralized around a fireplace and feature a central door flanked by multi-pane and wood-shingle siding and shutters. Windows are often seen in double-hung style with mullions, and dormer windows are seen on later iterations. The Cape Cod style doesn’t tend much in the way of exterior embellishments. Historically, shutters were functional in fending off storms rather than being strictly decorative.
Photo Credit: Pella Windows and Doors
The Interior
Interiors are often associated with traditional and coastal palettes— think beachy neutrals (such as beige, warm whites, tans) and soft ocean elemental colors, often traditional Early American interiors and natural woods or white finishes to windows. It is characterized by a clean simplicity in form, functionality and understated charm, with little in the way of decorative embellishments. Originally, there were three sizes of Capes: Quarter Cape (the smallest format), Half Cap (more of a square shape and more common during the 18th and 19th centuries), the Three-Quarter Cape (had three windows and a door on the front), and the Full Cape (which is the most common now). Dormers are also often associated with the Cape Cod style home, and these continue to grow as new designs feature “triple dormer windows”, making the most of daylight.
Photo Credit: Pella Windows and Doors
The Evolution
Although it has held most of its style definers, the Cape Cod style has slightly changed over time, with new materials and different finishes being introduced in exteriors. Older Cape Cod homes had in fact a series of smaller rooms that were separated by doors (for the sake of maximizing the heat in the winter). Today’s homes meet modern demands of open plan or partially open plan living. A Cape Cod style home is adaptable to the addition of wings and extensions, so these homes have often been remodeled and expanded over the years. But familiar elements are often seen on newly-constructed homes, such as double-hung windows, though they have gotten larger (many more of them are typically used). Decorative shutters are sometimes used, but not universally. The centrally placed front entry has become more of a dramatic focal point. Iconic dormers are shifting more modern with flat roofs vs. the more traditional peaked. There are also modern interpretations of this style, that include adding wings to the sides or rear, which might include a porch. The height can also be a full second story to expand space and light.
Photo Credit: Therma-Tru Doors
Architects For Inspiration
Since the Cape Cod home has such humble, historic roots, no single architect has been associated with this look. However, during the Colonial Revival period of the early 20th century, architect Royal Barry Willis received accolades for reintroducing the Cape with more updated features appropriate for the time. The Cape regained popularity and was perceived as a modern living option. Exterior designers Brick & Batten are reimagining Cape Cod style homes for the future.
Today, it continues to gain popularity across the country.
In Collaboration With:
Nicolle Willits, Product Manager for Entry Doors at Pella Windows and Doors
Emily Scheckelhoff, Marketing Manager at Therma-Tru Doors
Members of the Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA)
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