The charm and allure of American architecture have taken form in countless styles over the centuries. Among these, the Cape Cod style home, a staple of New England architecture, stands out for its simplicity and innovation. 

Originating from colonial times, these homes captured the pragmatic and functional needs of early settlers. Today, they retain an aesthetic appeal that makes them relevant and sought after by many homebuyers.

Below, the team from Prevu Real Estate will take you on a tour of the iconic Cape Cod Style, showing you its essential features and where you can look for one to call your own.

What makes a Cape Cod style house?

At its core, a Cape Cod style house is the epitome of efficiency, practicality, and warmth. Characterized by their symmetrical design and steep gabled roofs, these homes were initially constructed to shield New England settlers from harsh weather conditions. Their simplistic rectangular, wood-framed structure presented a cost-effective way for early settlers to establish a foothold in a new land quickly.

Traditionally, Cape Cod homes can be single-storied or one-and-a-half stories tall, and incorporate large, central chimneys and simplified, symmetrical floor plans. Over the years, as architectural innovations evolved, so too did the Cape Cod design, but its primary essence remains rooted in simplicity and functionality.

What is the history of the Cape Cod style?
The Cape Cod style home has its roots in colonial New England, drawing inspiration from the early timber-framed houses of the 17th century. Its name derives from the Cape Cod peninsula in Massachusetts, where English settlers adapted their traditional house designs to cope with the region's demanding weather conditions.

The early versions of these homes were extremely basic, with settlers utilizing local resources, primarily wood, to construct their dwellings. The style began to wane in popularity by the 19th century, overshadowed by other architectural movements. However, post-World War II brought about a revival of the style, thanks in large part to Massachusetts-born architect Royal Barry Wills, who modernized the Cape Cod design for contemporary living. 

What are the key features of Cape Cod homes?

The first thing you’ll notice in a Cape Cod home is its symmetrical appearance: a central front door usually flanked by two windows on each side. Then follows the steep, pitched roof, which not only adds to its aesthetic but is also functional – designed to prevent snow from accumulating during New England’s heavy winters.

The interior will typically feature hardwood floors and simple, straightforward layouts. Bedrooms are often located under the eaves, making the most of the limited space in the 1.5-story structure. 

A large, central chimney is another defining feature, originally intended to distribute heat throughout the home, adding to the style’s warm and welcoming ambiance.

What are the different varieties of the Cape Cod style?

While the traditional Cape Cod design remains a staple, several varieties have emerged over the years. 

The "Half Cape" is essentially a single English cottage, with windows positioned on one side of the door. A "Three-Quarter Cape" has a door placed between two windows, with a single window on one side and two on the other. The "Full Cape", the most recognized form, is symmetrical, with two windows flanking each side of the central door.

The evolution of the Cape Cod home also saw the emergence of "Dormers", which are windows that project vertically from the slope of the steep roof, adding more space and light to the upper level. As architectural trends shifted, the 20th-century Cape Cod revival introduced larger, more expansive versions while retaining many of the style's original elements.

Where can you find Cape Cod houses?

Initially, Cape Cod homes were closely linked to the northeastern United States, particularly in areas like Massachusetts and Connecticut. Their genesis in this locale was not accidental; rather, it directly responded to the area's climate, resources, and the early settlers' familiarity with English house designs. 

However, as the United States expanded westward, the charm and utility of the Cape Cod style weren't lost on other regions. The mid-20th century saw a broad migration of this architectural style across the country, reaching as far west as California. During this period, Cape Cod designs were widely embraced, with architects and builders recognizing their appeal and adaptability to various landscapes and climates.

While the northeastern states still house some of the most pristine and historically authentic examples, Cape Cod designs dot the landscapes of suburban neighborhoods nationwide. Modern subdivisions, especially those aiming to evoke a sense of tradition combined with present-day amenities, often feature Cape Cod designs.