Small Cape Cod Style House Plans

Small Cape Cod Style House Plans: A Guide to Their Essential Aspects

Cape Cod-style houses are beloved for their charming, timeless aesthetic. With their compact size and efficient layout, they offer a cozy and inviting living space. If you're considering building or renovating a small Cape Cod-style house, it's essential to understand the key characteristics and aspects that define this architectural style.

1. Compact and Symmetrical Design

Small Cape Cod houses are typically characterized by a compact, rectangular footprint with a symmetrical facade. The roof slopes down steeply on either side, creating a distinctive A-frame shape. This symmetrical design not only adds visual appeal but also ensures efficient use of space.

2. Central Chimney

A central chimney is a prominent feature of Cape Cod-style houses. It serves as the focal point of the exterior and provides a cozy gathering area inside the house. The chimney is often made of brick or stone, adding to the overall charm and character.

3. Clapboard Siding

Clapboard siding is a signature feature of Cape Cod-style houses. These narrow, overlapping wooden planks create a classic and timeless look. Clapboard siding is durable and weather-resistant, making it ideal for coastal environments.

4. Small Paned Windows

Small paned windows are another characteristic of Cape Cod-style houses. They allow plenty of natural light to enter the home while maintaining privacy. The windows are often double-hung, providing ventilation and easy access for cleaning.

5. Front Door with Sidelights

The front door is a key element of any home's exterior. In Cape Cod-style houses, the front door is often flanked by sidelights, creating a welcoming and inviting entryway. The sidelights provide additional natural light and enhance the symmetry of the facade.

6. Dormers

Dormers are small, projecting structures that extend from the roof. They add additional headroom and natural light to the upper floors of the house. Dormers can be gabled, arched, or eyebrow-shaped, adding visual interest to the exterior.

7. Functional Layout

Small Cape Cod houses are known for their efficient and functional layout. The first floor typically consists of a living room, dining room, kitchen, and a bedroom or study. The upper floor typically has two or three bedrooms and a bathroom. The compact size ensures that every space is utilized effectively.

8. Coastal Influence

Cape Cod-style houses originated in the coastal region of Massachusetts, USA. Their design reflects the challenges of the coastal environment, with features such as the steeply pitched roof for shedding water and the use of weather-resistant materials.