<h2>Cape Cod: America’s Enduring Cottage</h2> <p>Cape Cod homes are a classic example of practical beauty, built to weather New England’s fierce coastal storms while offering a warm welcome. First built by English settlers in New England in the late 17th century, these homes prioritized function: compact, close to the ground, and designed for warmth during harsh winters. Their steep gabled roofs were not just for looks, as they efficiently shed snow and protected the home from heavy accumulation.</p> <h3>A Brief History</h3> <p>The original Capes were simple and sturdy, with central chimneys, low ceilings, and little in the way of ornamentation. Families relied on these features to stay warm and safe. In the 20th century, Cape Cods experienced a revival. After World War II, returning soldiers sought affordable, reliable homes. Suburbs like Levittown, New York, featured rows of Cape Cods, making the style a symbol of attainable homeownership. Architects like Royal Barry Wills helped popularize the style during this revival, championing its practicality and charm.</p> <h3>Defining Features</h3> <ul> <li>One or one-and-a-half stories</li> <li>Steeply pitched gabled roof (perfect for snowy days)</li> <li>Central chimney, often right behind the front door</li> <li>Symmetrical front with a center door</li> <li>Dormer and shuttered windows</li> <li>Shingle or clapboard siding, often left to weather naturally</li> <li>Minimal ornamentation</li> <li>Low ceilings to retain heat</li> </ul> <h3>Unique Construction Methods</h3> <p>Traditional Cape Cod homes were built using local wood, making use of what was abundant in New England. The steep roofs and central chimneys were not just for show as they provided stability against strong coastal winds and helped keep the home warm. Inside, you might find a narrow, steep staircase known as a "captain’s stairway," a clever way to save space.</p> <h3>Notable Examples</h3> <ul> <li><strong>The Dugan Residence</strong> in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is a textbook example of the style.</li> <li><strong>Levittown, New York</strong>, became famous after World War II for its thousands of nearly identical Cape Cod homes, setting the tone for suburban America.</li> </ul> <h3>Revival and Resurgence</h3> <p>The Cape Cod style saw a big revival between 1925 and 1955, during the Colonial Revival period. Its adaptability and straightforward design made it a favorite for new suburban neighborhoods. Even today, modern versions add dormers or wings for extra space, but the heart of the style remains unchanged.</p> <h3>Fun Facts</h3> <ul> <li>The term “Cape Cod house” was coined by Yale president Timothy Dwight after his 1800 visit to the region.</li> <li>Despite their modest size, Cape Cods are known for adaptability, many have been expanded, but their original charm endures.</li> <li>The compact design and steep roofs make Cape Cods energy efficient, and some modern versions are built to net-zero standards.</li> <li>They’re a true cultural icon: simple, durable, and practical, with a style that stands the test of time.</li> </ul>