Best Collection Of 89+ Exquisite Cape Cod House Design Most Outstanding In 2023

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Cape Cod architecture is the cornerstone of New England's coastal style, and the ideal spot for a relaxing retreat. If you're considering building a new home that lets you enjoy the beauty of the Cape Cod shoreline year-round, these stunning Cape Cod house designs offer all the style and features you could want and more. From open-floor plans and striking outdoor spaces, to the perfect Cape Cod–inspired details, each of these top Cape Cod house designs brings the beach to life. Take a look and get inspired!

Traditional Cape Cod House Design

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

Modern 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

Coastal 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

Cape Cod Cottage 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

Contemporary Cape Cod 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

Colonial 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 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

Gambrel 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 Interior 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

Rustic Cape Cod 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

Focusing on the Interior of Cape Cod House Design

Cape Cod House Design When designing a Cape Cod house, one can focus on both the exterior and interior designs. The exterior of the house—which traditionally features steep gables and two-story homes—can be enhanced with various features that reflect the style of the New England region. The interior , on the other hand, can be redesigned to fit modern design aesthetics.

Functional Furnishings

Cape Cod House Design When it comes to the interior of a Cape Cod home, furnishings should be functional and modern. Furniture should focus on comfort and be arranged in ways that are conducive for conversation and relaxation. Common features of a home such as a family room in the basement, fireplace in the living room, and a game room for the children can all be used to create a living space that is both inviting and welcoming.

Focal Points

Cape Cod House Design Focal points in a Cape Cod home should be used to draw the eye and help give the home an updated look. These can include both modern and traditional pieces such as a vintage antique armoire or a contemporary wall art piece. Additionally, a wide variety of lighting features—including pendant fixtures, recessed lighting, and wall sconces—can be used to accentuate and expand upon focal points, while also creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Colors and Textures

Cape Cod House Design Color and texture can also be used to enhance the interior design of a Cape Cod home. Warm colors like yellows, oranges, and reds can be used to create an inviting atmosphere, while cool blues and greys can be used to create a calming space. Textural elements can also be used to add texture and interest to a room. These can range from textured fabric seating options to woven baskets and knotted rugs. All these elements can be used to create a space that feels inviting and unique.

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