SAVED
By Courtney Pittman
First developed in America in the early 18th century (according to A Field Guide to American Houses by Virginia Savage McAlester), Cape Cod house plans continue to be a popular home style today. These all-American homes are built all over the United States, but are most at home in New England.
Click here to browse our collection of Cape Cod house plans.
Cape Cod house plans tend to be modest in size, symmetrical, and rectangular. A large central fireplace is usually featured in the primary living area – perfect for entertaining friends and family. The upper half story of Cape Cod house plans typically consists of bedrooms or bonus space. With comfortable room proportions and traffic flow (having been updated, reinvented, and expanded over centuries to embrace the tastes of homeowners today), Cape Cod house plans are ideal as a vacation retreat, empty nester cottage, or starter home.
Let’s take a look at some of our most beloved Cape Cod house plans.
Designed with cozy evenings in mind, this Cape Cod house plan (plan927-942) features plenty of outdoor space (a covered front porch, rear deck, and vaulted screened porch) for homeowners to enjoy beautiful fall nights with family and friends.
Inside, everyone can gather in the vaulted, hearth-warmed family room, which is completely open to the spacious island kitchen for function and ease. Both the vaulted screened porch and the extensive master suite (check out the walk-in closet!) access the deck at the rear of the home.
Two additional bedrooms occupy the opposite side of the floor plan.
With a loft and private bath, the second floor of this Cape Cod home plan could make a perfect teen retreat or mini-apartment for an in-law or returning college student. An optional bonus room above the garage offers even more square footage.
Ideal for a coastal location, this charming Cape Cod house plan (plan137-373) features a walkout basement that can be finished to hold a fourth bedroom, rec space, or even a workshop. The main level displays an open layout that invites homeowners to step out to the vast front porch from the great room or the spacious master suite.
Next to the large island kitchen, the casual breakfast area opens to the dining room for convenient entertaining. On the second level, homeowners will find two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a study area (with a balcony!) that creates an airy feeling. Don't miss the extra storage on the second level and in the utility room downstairs!
Inside this classic exterior (above), you'll find a surprisingly contemporary layout that's designed for modern families. The Glen Arbor by Visbeen Architects (plan928-298) features multiple decks and an optional finished walkout basement – making this home a natural fit for a waterfront location. Smart details like the convenient location of the laundry room near the master closet and the kitchen's generous walk-in pantry, make everyday life easier.
The open layout flows from the casual dining room to the island kitchen (with room for six to sit at the bar) and the fireplace-warmed living room. Another fireplace warms one of the decks for multi-season enjoyment. A private master suite offers owners convenience and luxury on the first floor, while four generous bedrooms (one with a fun bunk room for sleepovers) sit upstairs. The lower level can be finished with a kitchenette, exercise room, and more.
Classic American architecture is alive and well in this Cape Cod style house plan. Proving that a simple layout can also be attractive and sophisticated, the interior boasts traditional features with updated twists. For example, the handy laundry room offers a sink, folding counter, storage, natural light, and is located near the mudroom.
A walk-through pantry just off the two-car garage and mudroom makes unloading groceries a piece of cake. With plenty of work space and storage, the island kitchen is roomy and modern. Windows on three sides of the dining room make it cheery and bright.
Upstairs, little space is wasted on hallways while closet storage has been maximized. The master suite, two additional bedrooms, a bath, and a bonus room reside on this level.
Plan137-204 (pictured above) beautifully combines traditional and new elements with its classic Cape Cod exterior and modern layout. The island kitchen flows with ease into the large living room and the bright breakfast nook. The formal dining room opens partially to the kitchen and foyer. Located for convenience on the first floor, the master suite features a big walk-in closet and dual sinks.
Homeowners will find two additional bedrooms and two bathrooms located on the second level. For more space, a rec room can be finished above the garage (which could be used as a home office, guest suite, craft room, and so much more).
There is no shortage of curb appeal when it comes to this cool Cape Cod house plan (plan 1010-129). Inside, the layout is surprisingly contemporary. Located at the center of the gathering spaces, the kitchen boasts a large island with a convenient snack bar. Nearby, the dining nook offers a bright, relaxed space, while a fireplace warms the great room.
It's easy to tame clutter with the smart organizational details at the garage entrance, including a bench and cubbies. Upstairs, the master suite sports a soaking tub, large shower, and walk-in closet. Three more bedrooms use the hall bath, while a bonus space is available for later expansion.
Hello classic Cap! With an exterior flanked by a large [front porch](collection:plans-with-front- and comprised of wood, brick, and shingle siding, plan 497-5 (pictured above) evokes a sense of nostalgia in us – and we are welcoming it with open arms.
The main level includes a master suite downstairs and a total of four bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. Warm up next to the fireplace in the vaulted great room (that features an easy flow to the kitchen and breakfast area). Enjoy a loft area (which is perfect for workout space, kid play area, or an office) on the second level.
Explore our collection of Cape Cod house plans here.
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