Cape Cod Homes
Some of the first houses built in the United States were Cape Cods. Cape Cod homes represent one of New England's most significant contributions to American architecture. Original Cape Cod homes were shingle-sided, one-story cottages with no dormers. During the mid-20th century, the small, uncomplicated Cape Cod shape became popular in suburban developments. A 20th-century Cape Cod is square or rectangular with one or one-and-a-half stories and has steeply pitched, gabled roofs. It may have dormers and shutters. The siding is usually clapboard or brick.
About.com lists these features for many Cape Cod Homes:
Steep roof (8"-12" pitch) with side gables
- Keeps weather out
- Allows attic as living space
Small roof overhang
1 or 1½ stories
Made of wood and covered in wide clapboard or shingles
- Winter: Wood swells against wind
- Summer: Wood shrinks, allowing air to circulate
Large central chimney linked to fireplace in each room
Symmetrical appearance with door in center
Dormers for space, light, and ventilation
Multi-paned, double-hung windows
Shutters
Formal, center-hall floor plan
Hardwood floors
Little exterior ornamentation |  |
Cape Cod Websites
Royal Barry Wills was known as the master of the Cape Cod style home.
Pilgrim Hall Museum has lots of information on Cape Cod homes.
Cape Cod Houses recorded by the Historic American Buildings Survey.
Bob Villa's website offers many Cape Cod house plans.
Cape Cod defined
Cape Cod architecture
Cape Cod Homes on HGTV
Cincinnati Cape Cod blog
You can also shop for Cape Cod Design books on Amazon:
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