Cape Cod

1620-Present

The Cape Cod is one of the earliest homes built by American colonists still popular today. Early versions were very crude with one room on the first floor and a sleeping loft above. Modern versions are larger with a living room, dining room, and kitchen on the first floor; bedrooms and bath in the attic; and chimneys at either end. This latter version became the most popular style of home in the United States between 1920 and 1950.

General description:

• Small, symmetrical house with a central entrance
• Steep, shingled, gable roof with a central chimney
• Living and sleeping quarters on the first floor
• Additional bedrooms and bath may be added to the attic
• Lack of central hallway necessitates walking through one room to access another

Exterior features to consider in kitchen design:

• White clapboard, wood shingles, or brick
• Double-hung windows with shutters
• Simple in design and craftsmanship
• Classic white picket fence

Recommended kitchen design elements:

Cabinet Doors Type: Inset Style: Recessed panel Finish: Stain Wood: Maple or oak Countertops Laminate Soapstone Flooring Linoleum Ceramic Architectural Details Simple crown moulding Dado board Chair rail