Home design plays a significant role in affecting people’s lifestyles. It can dictate how people spend their time at home, how they interact with each other, and even how they feel about themselves. For example, a cluttered or chaotic home environment can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety, while a well-organized and serene home can promote relaxation and peace of mind.
The way our homes are designed can also impact our physical health; for instance, if we don’t have enough natural light or our furniture is arranged uncomfortably, we may end up experiencing back pain or other health problems. One particular home design known to be efficient and simple is the Cape Cod style.
The Cape Cod home design originated in New England in the 17th century and was designed to be sturdy and weather-resistant against the region’s strong winds and cold winters. Since then, homeowners across America have adopted and embraced the Cape Cod style for its clean lines and classic look.
If you’re thinking about building a Cape Cod home, here are five fundamentals to consider.
Simplicity
One of the defining characteristics of a Cape Cod home is its simplicity. This doesn’t mean that a Cape Cod home can’t be stylish or beautiful; instead, the overall design is uncluttered and free of extra details. Everything in a Cape Cod home serves a purpose, and there’s a place for everything.
Functionality is key in a Cape Cod home, so features like built-ins and nooks are often incorporated into the design. These elements add character to the space and provide much-needed storage without taking up too much visual space.
Symmetry
Another hallmark of a Cape Cod home is its symmetrical design. This means that the home has a central front door flanked by equal numbers of windows on either side. The roofline is also typically symmetrical, with gables placed in the center and dormers balanced on either side.
This type of symmetry creates a sense of order and stability. However, it’s very different from the asymmetry of a Victorian home. One way to ensure that your Cape Cod home follows perfect symmetry is through the Golden Ratio.
The Golden Ratio is a mathematical formula that’s believed to create the most aesthetically pleasing proportions. When applied to home design, it results in a well-balanced home and looks proportionate from all angles.
If you want to achieve perfect symmetry in your Cape Cod home, make sure that the length of your house is 1.6 times the height of your roofline. The width of your house should also be 1.6 times the height of your front door.
Proportion
In addition to symmetry, another important aspect of a Cape Cod home’s design is proportion. This refers to the ratio between the different parts of the house, such as the windows, doors, and roofline.
For example, a Cape Cod home with large windows and a small front door would look out of proportion and wouldn’t be true to the style. The same goes for a Cape Cod home with a very tall roofline and short windows.
Massiveness
Another fundamental element of a Cape Cod home’s design is its massiveness. This refers to the overall size and scale of the house. A Cape Cod home is typically quite large, with a heavy and solid appearance.
This massiveness is often achieved through the use of materials like stone or brick, which lend the house a sense of weight and stability. The large size of a Cape Cod home also serves a practical purpose; since these homes were originally designed to withstand harsh winters, they need to be big enough to provide shelter for the entire family.
Simplicity, symmetry, proportion, and massiveness are four of the most important fundamentals to keep in mind when designing a Cape Cod home. If you can focus on these elements, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and timeless space. Now that you know these fundamentals, here are ways you can spice up your Cape Cod Home.
Install Glasses!
Glass is a must-have for almost any modern home. It provides a sleek and sophisticated look that can make your home stand out. Plus, it’s a great way to let in natural light and keep your home feeling bright and airy.
For a Cape Cod home, we recommend using glass in the form of large windows. These will not only add to the overall massiveness of your home but will also help you take advantage of those stunning ocean views. If you live in a colder climate, you can use double-paned or triple-paned windows to help insulate your home. Moreover, when it comes to your bathroom, having glass shower doors can make a huge difference in looks.
Another great way to incorporate glass into your Cape Cod home is with skylights. These are perfect for letting in natural light while still maintaining the clean lines of the roofline.
Recycled Materials
Cape Cod homes are all about simplicity and functionality, so it makes sense to use recycled materials where possible. This not only helps you save money but also reduces your home’s environmental impact.
There are a number of ways to incorporate recycled materials into your Cape Cod home. For example, you could use reclaimed wood for your floors, walls, or ceiling.
If you’re looking for a truly unique way to incorporate recycled materials into your home, consider using an old ship’s hull as your foundation. This will give your home a one-of-a-kind look that’s sure to turn heads.
With these design ideas in mind, you can build a stunning Cape Cod home that’s true to the style and sure to impress. Just remember to keep it simple, focus on symmetry and proportion, and use recycled materials where possible. With these fundamentals in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful space that’s both stylish and sustainable.
