With its steep gabled roof and shingled siding, the traditional Cape Cod house is the quintessential New England house style. It is classically styled with symmetrical design and a low, sprawling construction. The main advantage of this style is its simplicity. Its boxed shape and clapboard siding draw attention to the dormers while limiting maintenance costs. It is well suited to a coastal or rural area, and can be embellished with additional architectural features such as porches, shutters, or window boxes. Its minimalistic design also lends itself to an easy transition into a modern style by upgrading the materials to a contemporary look. Traditional Cape Cod House Design
The modern Cape Cod house is a contemporary take on the classic look. As opposed to the traditional design, modern Cape Cod houses are constructed with more open layout and larger windows. The style is dominated by a black and white color palette, with a focus on modern lighting fixtures. Natural lighting is maximized with expansive windows and strategic accent lighting is used to create an inviting atmosphere. Other features like cantilevered decks and rooftop patios add to the modern aesthetic of this style. Modern Cape Cod House Design
The coastal Cape Cod house is well suited for a life near the seaside. These homes capture the aquamarine blues of the ocean with exterior elements such as siding and shutters or even a raised second floor with views of the surrounding landscape. Inside, these houses bring in elements such as white-washed wood paneling, hardwood floors, and ample natural lighting with the use of large windows. The interior decorations of these houses are typically marked by soft hues and cool colors, such as blues, grays, and whites, allowing a tranquil atmosphere perfect for beach lovers.Coastal Cape Cod House Design
The Cape Cod cottage house is a smaller variety of the traditional style. While still boasting all of the charming elements of the original design, these cottages are marked by their more compact structures. The exterior of the house is characterized by hardy clapboard siding, a prominent central chimney, and single or two-story design. Inside, the development of additional dormers and bonus rooms add versatile living spaces including an extra bedroom, living area, or office space. The attic is transformed to a cozy loft and the overall space becomes much more user-friendly and charming.Cape Cod Cottage House Design
While the traditional Cape Cod house is designed to look more rustic and simple, the contemporary style is the modern version of this classic. What sets the contemporary style apart is that it often takes on a more modern layout, with larger windows, open living spaces, and high ceilings. The exterior of the house may remain faithful to the classic look, but modern touches such as sleek siding, frameless windows, and contemporary landscaping add an air of sophistication. Contemporary Cape Cod House Design
A Colonial Cape Cod house resembles that of a traditional Cape Cod style, with a few modern upgrades. It is centered around a symmetrical construction with traditional elements such as a central chimney, single-story design, and a steep gabled roof. However, modern updates such as a second story have been added to give this classic style a contemporary touch. Inside, this style is known for its colonial aesthetics such as hardwood floors, exposed wooden beams, and period furniture pieces. Colonial Cape Cod House Design
Victorian Cape Cod houses are similar to the traditional style in shape and form, often featuring gabled roofs and clapboard siding, but with more ornate details. The exterior of the house features Victorian elements such as bay windows, embellished porches, and ornamental trims. Inside, these homes have a markedly old-world aesthetic, such as antique furniture, ornate wallpaper, and intricate tile floors. Victorian Cape Cod House Design
The Gambrel Cape Cod house combines traditional features with a more modern construction. Popularized in the 19th century, this style is defined by its steep stepped roof, which gives the appearance of a modified traditional style. Inside, rustic woodwork surrounds the space, creating an inviting atmosphere with a homey feel. Updated gambrel houses may feature two stories, raised ceilings, and larger windows, creating a more spacious layout than the traditional style. Gambrel Cape Cod House Design
Cape Cod style interiors offer a warm and inviting atmosphere. These styles are typically characterized by walls painted in a pale, soothing color as well as Plywood along the walls and floors. Classic furniture pieces such as wingback chairs, ladder-back stools, and claw foot tables furnish the space. Other traditional fixtures like built-in shelving, wainscoting, and fireplaces complete the look. Accent lighting with buoys, antiques, and nautical-themed decorations create the perfect style for relaxed living. Cape Cod Interior House Design
The rustic Cape Cod house is designed to capture the charm of the traditional style, while giving it a weathered and rural look. The exterior of the house is marked by dark-stained shingles, weathered clapboard siding, and exposed roof beams. Inside, rustic exposed beams create cozy living spaces and the smell of distressed wood fills the air. Antique furniture pieces, a mix of prints, and patterned fabrics decorate the space with a cozy farmhouse feel. Rustic Cape Cod House Design