Cape Cod decorating style is a classic, clean look, inspired by the coastal style of the Cape Cod region of Massachusetts in the United States. It has a charming, homey feel and can often be found in beach houses and cottages, but it has become more popular in modern homes as well.
Cape Cod decorating is often light and airy, characterized by white walls, natural finishes, such as wood, painted furniture and crisp fabrics. Simplicity and minimalism are key, and often a room may just feature a few well-placed pieces in an otherwise blank space.
Light colors, such as blues and whites, along with a few significant nautical pieces to accent, are consistent throughout the Cape Cod decorating style. Common details include interesting wainscotting, beaded board, barn doors, and other architectural elements to give the room a warm and inviting feel.
What defines a Cape style house?
A Cape style house is typically a one and a half story home characterized by a steep, sloping roofline and a symmetrical façade. They typically have an entry door in the center of the façade with several windows on each side, and often an additional window above the door or entryway.
This style of home is not limited in size and can range from a tiny cottage to a large multi-room home.
The style first appeared in the early 1600s in the New England area and grew in popularity during the colonial period. The style was so practical that it quickly spread to nearly all of the colonies in the 1800s and kept its popularity even after technology and housing innovations occurred such as balloon framing.
What makes Cape houses immediately recognizable are their steep pitched front-facing gables and their second level that spans the length of the house and is only a half-story in height. A Cape Cod style house almost looks like two houses in one.
Sensibly, the steep roofs were meant to make the most of interior ceiling heights and save on materials. The wall space created by this style also provided for extra storage and space for stairs to the second floor.
The interior of a Cape style house typically features hardwood floors, beamed ceilings, wainscoting, and the cozy framing of windows and exterior doors. Additionally, there are typically two or more small chimneys that vent out smoke from multiple fireplaces.
Overall, Cape houses are similar in design, yet different in size and exterior features that range from brick, stone or a combination of both.
What are the characteristics of a Cape Cod house?
Cape Cod houses are known for their signature style of design and architectural features, which originated in Cape Cod, Massachusetts in the early 1700s. Characteristics of a classic Cape Cod house style include a rectangular, symmetrical shape; a steeply-pitched roof; two-stories; clapboard siding; shuttered windows; and a large central chimney.
Additionally, these homes typically have shutters, one-story front or side porches, a simple and unadorned interior design, and a central hallway with bedrooms located on either side. These features were initially designed to provide energy efficiency for New Englanders living in cooler climates.
Over time, the style has evolved to include other features and styles. For instance, modern Cape Cod houses often have larger, wrap-around porches, gabled and gambrel-style roofs, and an entirely different design of siding.
Furthermore, modern Cape Cod houses tend to be larger with more complex layouts and more than two stories, while traditional style Cape Cod homes are smaller and more modest in size.
Despite these changes, the essential characteristics of the classic Cape Cod house style are still observed. This style remains popular, both for those who yearn for a traditional home, as well as those who appreciate the excellent insulation and energy efficiency it provides.
What is the difference between a Cape Cod and Cape Ann style home?
Cape Cod and Cape Ann style homes are similar in their overall look and functionality. They are both one and a half story, with a basic rectangular plan, and steeply pitched roofs that extend nearly to the ground.
Both Cape Cod and Cape Ann style homes boast dormers and offer symmetrical, attractive facades.
The primary difference between a Cape Cod and Cape Ann style home is the design of the entryway. The Cape Cod style home has a traditional center entry, with a door centered in the middle of the front of the house.
The Cape Ann style home, however, features a breezeway entry, which is a hallway from the garage to the front door of the house.
The Cape Cod style is more common in the South and Midwest, while the Cape Ann style is more frequent in the Northeast and on the East Coast.
In addition, many Cape Cod style homes employ shingle siding, while many Cape Ann style homes are composed of clapboard.
Do Cape Cod style homes have basements?
Cape Cod style homes are typically one-and-a-half stories with steeply pitched gabled roofs and narrow overhangs. Though the look is classic and timeless, the homes often lack extra living space. Many Cape Cod style homes do not have basements, as this was a feature of more modern homes even in the 19th century when the style was popular.
However, more recently built Cape Cod style homes, especially those with more modern amenities, may have a full or partial basement. These basements may be used for storage, a home office, or even a family room or game room.
Moreover, some new construction homes may have a basement dug out to create more usable space.
To sum up, Cape Cod style homes do not always have basements. However, modern versions may have fully- or partially- finished basements to create additional living space.
How many stories is a Cape Cod house?
As the number of stories a Cape Cod house has can vary widely. Some Cape Cod houses are one or one-and-a-half stories, while larger Cape Cod houses can have two or even three stories. Generally speaking, the number of stories depend on the size of the house and its design, so it is important to consider the specific house when attempting to determine the number of stories.
Additionally, some Cape Cod houses feature a steeply pitched roof and dormers, which can add more stories that are not as tall as more traditional stories.
Are Cape Cod houses small?
Cape Cod houses can vary in size, ranging from small to large. Typically, they have shingle-clad exteriors and gabled roofs, which give the homes a more modest appearance. This can give the impression that they are small homes.
However, some larger, more modern Cape Cod homes are becoming increasingly popular. These usually have more open floor plans, larger windows, and can have multiple stories with more space for entertaining.
Whether small or large, Cape Cod homes all have a classic charm and stability to them, making them very desirable for homeowners.
How can I make my exterior look more modern?
Making the exterior of your home look more modern can be achieved in a few ways. One way is to give your house a facelift with a fresh coat of paint, either in a modern color palette or a more neutral one.
Depending on the style of your house, you could also consider updating and replacing older elements such as doors and windows, to more modern designs. Adding elements such as overhang and eaves can also give your exterior a more modern look.
Incorporating materials consistently throughout the design of the exterior can also help to create a modern look, such as using brick, stone, and wood, or a combination. Incorporating sleek, modern lighting fixtures, such as recessed lighting, is another great way to add a more modern touch to your exterior.
Doing simple things such as trimming back shrubs and trees, and pruning plants, can also help to create a more modern look. These are just a few ways to give your exterior a more modern look.
Can you change a Cape Cod house?
Yes, it is possible to make changes to a Cape Cod house. Such as a new coat of paint or architectural trim, adding a porch or patio, as well as landscaping features like trees and shrubs. On the interior, there are a variety of changes you can make, such as changing the floor plan, expanding the kitchen and bathrooms, updating the windows, or even doing a complete renovation.
In addition, many homeowners choose to add a second story or loft to their Cape Cod home to expand their living space. All these changes can make a big difference to the look and feel of the home while still preserving its classic style.
What makes a house look tacky?
A house can look tacky for several reasons, including a bad paint job, outdated or excessively gaudy décor, and poorly kept landscaping. A tacky house often has mismatched paint colors, either by choosing the wrong tone or when two different colors are applied sloppily.
Outdated or excessively gaudy décor can be a combination of clashing furniture styles or having too many pieces of furniture. Poorly kept landscaping can include an unkempt and overgrown lawn, junky outdoor decoration, and dead or dying plants.
In addition, having a cluttered driveway or an unfinished project like a car in the yard can make a house look tacky. Ultimately, it is the combination of these things that makes a house look tacky.
How do you Modernise the front of a house?
Modernising the front of a house is a great way to update the overall look and increase curb appeal. The first step is to start with a clean canvas by removing any overgrown foliage and clearing any debris.
After that, it’s time to focus on the individual elements that make up the exterior. Consider repainting or replacing the front door with a more modern design. Installing new lighting on either side of the entryway is also a nice touch and allows the entrance to stand out even more.
If there is room, consider placing a small rectangular garden near the entrance way to add a bit of greenery without taking up too much valuable space. Adding awnings over the windows is also a wonderful way to add dimension while improving the overall look of the house and providing protection from the elements.
Also, the siding and trim should be maintained, repainted, or replaced. Finally, replacing the old metal mailbox with a modern style can complete this modernizing effort. Ultimately, the goal with modernizing the front of a house is to create a cohesive and inviting look that enhances the curb appeal of the home.
How do you spruce up old siding?
Sprucing up old siding is a great way to make an old house look more modern and visually appealing. Including painting, staining, and replacing siding panels.
Painting is a popular way to spruce up old siding. Choose a color that compliments your home’s style, and use a high quality paint for the best results. Painting your siding can also be a great way to add some life to your home’s exterior, especially if your siding was looking a little tired and worn out.
Staining your siding is another great option for sprucing it up. You can choose from a variety of wood stains and tones to find the perfect shade for your home. Staining your siding can help to protect your home from the elements, while also giving it an attractive aesthetic.
Replacing siding panels is the last option, but it’s often the most expensive. Consider replacing damaged or rotting siding panels, as they will not look good and may be a potential health hazard. Choose a material that is durable, stylish, and easy to maintain before installing new siding.
No matter which approach you take, sprucing up old siding can be a rewarding project that increases your home’s curb appeal and value. Take care to hire a professional and use quality materials to ensure your siding lasts for years to come.
What architectural style is Cape Cod?
Cape Cod is an architectural style made popular in colonial New England. It features a simple and symmetrical design and is typified by a low, broad frame building to which a roof of moderately steep pitch is applied and white clapboarding on the exterior.
The style is characterized by its “square, box-like” formation, with a central door and windows symmetrically placed on either side. This style of architecture does not typically feature elaborate decorative elements, and instead emphasizes a functional and functionalist aesthetic that was born from the area’s New England surroundings and its association with the early colonists.
In contrast to other architectural styles, this style focuses more on practicality and functionality than on ornamental details, and is popular among those who favor a cozy aesthetic. Common features of this style of architecture include clapboard, gambrel roofs, and small, double-hung windows.
What are houses in Cape Cod made of?
Houses in Cape Cod tend to be made of wood, sometimes with a clapboard or shingle exterior. The wood used is often a cedar, pine, or sometimes cypress tree, depending on the location. Historically, these homes have been built with post and beam construction using chestnut, hemlock, and pine, although less frequently now.
Many homes have brick fireplaces, shutters, and antique wood beams for an authentic Cape Cod look. Modern homes may have vinyl or stone siding materials instead of wood, although the style is typically kept classic and timeless with the white or gray colors of authentic Cape Cod homes.
Which is a typical design attribute in Cape Cod homes?
Cape Cod homes are typically known for their charming, cozy, and timeless design aesthetic. Common design attributes in these homes range from large windows that let in plenty of natural light, symmetrical box shapes, and steep pitched roofs.
Other defining features can include large dormers—projections that extend out from the roofline—and wide eaves. Clapboard siding, painted in neutral colors like white, grey, or light blue, is also a common exterior element.
Inside Cape Cod homes, hardwood floors, simple molding, and a central brick fireplace are characteristic features. Overall, Cape Cod homes are designed for comfort and practicality, allowing for a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere.
Is my house a Cape Cod?
The answer to this question depends on a few different factors. To answer this question, you will need to understand the characteristics of a Cape Cod style house so that you can determine if your house is one.
Cape Cod houses generally have symmetrical, simple designs featuring steep roofs with side gables, a large central chimney, and minimal ornamentation. The exterior is often clapboard or shingle-style and the windows have multiple small panes.
Inside, these houses usually have an entryway with a staircase and the rooms are typically separated with a central hallway. The upper floor is often used as a bedroom area and the first floor typically houses the kitchen and living areas.
If your house has all of these key characteristics, then it is likely that it is a Cape Cod house. To be sure, you can research your house’s history and see if it is a style that has historically been known as a Cape Cod.
Additionally, some modern homes may be designed with a Cape Cod style in mind. Depending on the individual house, some of the characteristics may be more exaggerated or less prominent, but if your house follows the main characteristics then it is likely that it is a Cape Cod.
What is Cape Cod interior design?
Cape Cod interior design is a style of interior decorating that originates from the popular Cape Cod area of Massachusetts in the United States. It takes cues from Colonial and Country style home décor and puts a modern spin on classic design elements.
Characteristics of Cape Cod design include exposed beams, white-washed walls and floors, textured walls, and furniture with an updated, beach-cottage feel. It often features classic Americana pieces, like antique clapboard doors and shutter-windowed cabinets, but with a re-imagined look.
Color palettes are often in shades of blue, green, and white, evoking the coastal colors of Cape Cod. Wicker furniture and accents add a touch of classic charm, and the beach vibe is complete with nautical accents.
Additionally, décor items often feature striped patterns, nautical stripes and classic floral prints. Ultimately, Cape Cod interior design combines all of these styling elements to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere that is reminiscent of a beach vacation.
Why do Cape Cod houses have shingles?
Cape Cod houses have shingles for a variety of reasons. First, shingles are a very durable material, so they can stand up to the harsh weather that can be found in Cape Cod. They are also very customizable in terms of color, size, and shape, so they can match the style of the home.
Shingles also allow for good ventilation, so they can keep the home cooler in the summer months. Lastly, shingles can be fairly inexpensive to install, making it a great option for home renovations or new construction.