Yes, many homes in Cape Cod have porches. These are typically large, wraparound porches or decks that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Many of these porches and decks come with furniture and have built-in benches and railings so homeowners can enjoy the fresh breeze while they take in the sights.
Additionally, some homes have screened-in porches, which provide even more comfort from the elements. Porches are a favorite spot for sun-filled evenings and gatherings with family and friends. In some towns, there are even porch building competitions, where homeowners compete for the best design and construction.
Whatever the style, owning a home with a porch in Cape Cod is a true pleasure.
What makes a house a Cape Cod house?
A Cape Cod house is a type of architectural style that originated in New England during the 17th century and has become a popular style in the United States throughout the past few centuries. This style is characterized by a low, broad frame building, generally a one and one-half to two and one-half stories in height, with a moderately steep pitched roof, large central chimney and very symmetrical front facade.
The roof line is usually curved rather than steeply pitched, with side gables, and the windows are often multiple, small panes that are symmetrically placed across the front of the house. These features give a Cape Cod house an iconic look, making it easily recognizable and memorable.
Another characteristic of Cape Cod houses is the low eaves, or lack of porches, and typically clapboard siding. Traditional Cape Cod houses were designed to be efficient and economical so as to withstand the cold New England winters, and the clean, minimal lines of the houses reflect this design.
Today, the Cape Cod style is widely popular throughout the United States and is used as a popular choice in vacation and summer homes, as well as newly built homes in most communities.
What kind of roof do Cape Cod homes usually have?
Cape Cod homes typically have a steeply pitched roof with side gables, also known as a gable roof. This roof style, along with the shingled siding and symmetrical window placement, was utilized to protect the inhabitant from the harsh north-east weather.
These roofs are generally made from asphalt shingles, due to their durability and effectiveness at shedding precipitation, but may also be made of other materials such as wood, slate, or even copper shingles.
The steep pitch of the roof allows for heavy snow accumulation, while the gable provides additional strength and rigidity in strong winds. Properly shingled and maintained roofs can last up to 30 years.
Why are Cape Cod houses so popular?
Cape Cod houses have been a popular choice for coastal homeowners for a long time. This is due to their convenience, affordability, and unique style. Cape Cod style homes are characterized by their steep rooflines, dormer windows, and traditional colonial style architecture.
They traditionally have a one and a half story design with a large central window in the attic to provide extra natural light. Cape Cod style houses are also often made of wood and are typically built close to each other, making them more energy efficient than large, sprawling buildings.
Cape Cod style houses often blend in with the natural aesthetic of the coastal landscape, thus providing a more organic feel. This traditional style home also has a strong sense of nautical connection to the area and is perfect for homeowners who want to be close to the ocean.
They are incredibly durable, too, and many Cape Cod houses were originally built to withstand the harsh elements brought on by coastal storms and other weather patterns.
Overall, it’s no surprise that Cape Cod houses are so highly sought after. With their classic looks, convenience and affordability, as well as their durable construction and coastal vibe, they make an ideal home for those looking to enjoy the beauty of coastal living.
What is Cape Cod style house plans?
Cape Cod style house plans are generally characterized by their boxy and simple structure with steeply pitched, gabled roofs. They generally have one or one-and-a-half stories, though some two-story versions do exist.
Windows are typically small and symmetrically placed, often with a multi-pane top window on the first level and slanted roof dormers in the second story. Doors tend to be smaller with pediments or triangular shape trims.
Siding, either wood or clapboard, covers the exterior walls, although stone may be used in some instances. Internally, they usually have a central hallway with rooms branching off in either side. The interior finishes typically have soft colors or white-washed walls, some exposed framing features, and trimwork to complement the wood floors.
Cape Cod style house plans have a charm that endures and are a favorite style of many people.
What is a house without a basement called?
A house without a basement is commonly referred to as a “no-basement house. ” These types of houses are typically built on flat land and the entire house structure is built on a single level. Without a basement, other areas such as storage, a laundry room, or even a furnace room, may become areas of concern for homeowners.
In some cases, depending on the size of the house, homeowners may have to get creative in finding storage solutions. For example, some homeowners opt to install an attic or closets, while others opt to add an outdoor shed or garage.
Additionally, because no-basement homes don’t typically have built-in foundations, they may also lack access to water and/or sewer systems, which can pose some installation or plumbing problems if it’s not done correctly.
Lastly, depending on where you live, there may also be restrictions in building no-basement homes. For example, certain communities may have height restrictions or require certain setbacks from the property line.
As such, it is important to check the local building codes prior to starting the construction of a no-basement home.
Why do homes in New England have basements?
Homes in New England have basements because of the freezing temperatures that occur throughout most of the year. Basements provide the optimal temperature for storing food, which was traditionally done in the New England area.
Additionally, basements provide additional living space that allows for extra bedrooms, recreation rooms, and laundry areas. Basements also serve as an extra protection from the elements. This is important in areas that experience cold weather and severe weather events, such as snow, hail, and flooding.
Furthermore, basements help to insulate and contain the heat, allowing a warmer temperature than those of exposed ground level homes. Basements also provide additional storage space, allowing people to keep items such as tools, supplies, and decorations safely tucked away.
Overall, in New England, basements are an excellent option for storage, living space, protection and insulation from the cold weather.
Are basements common in Boston?
Basements are common in Boston, especially in the older residential areas. Due to the city’s age and the fact that many of its neighborhoods have been around since colonial times, a large number of houses feature basements as part of their structure.
The cold climate of Boston allows for basements to be used for living space rather than simply additional storage, as they often are in other areas. Some properties have full basements with laundry and utilities, while others may have only a partially finished area.
In fact, many condominiums in the downtown area have full basements with laundry facilities and other amenities. Basements are also fairly common in multi-family housing, as well, featuring additional living space for tenants.
Overall, basements are certainly a common feature to be found in Boston.
What is the purpose of a wrap around porch?
A wrap around porch is a type of covered outdoor space that wraps around the exterior of a house or building. It is a great way to bring the outdoors in and provide a space for people to relax and enjoy the outdoors without being exposed to the elements.
In addition to providing a space for relaxation and entertainment, a wrap around porch can also add aesthetic appeal to a home or building and enhance its overall look. The extra covered space can provide additional living space or storage, as well as create a comfortable atmosphere for outdoor activities.
Wrap around porches can also be used as outdoor kitchens and can even serve as an outdoor room, as well as providing access to the exterior of a building. An added benefit of a wrap around porch is that it can create an energy-efficient space, providing greater comfort and savings.
By connecting the porch to the interior of the house, it can reduce the need for heating and cooling, as the indoor temperature can be regulated by the porch.
Are wrap around porches Southern?
Yes, wrap around porches are a hallmark of traditional Southern architecture. Many Southern states have a long history of designing homes with wrap around porches, especially in the early 1800s where generally porches were seen as a social gathering spot and a way to enjoy the outdoors.
Though a bit of a relic these days, the wrap around porch has become an iconic symbol of the Southern style home. It’s a comforting image often characterized by white columns, comfy rocking chairs, and vibrant blooming flowers.
So while wrap around porches are not specific to the Southern region, they have certainly become widely associated with the culture and lifestyle of the South.
Why do southern houses have porches?
Southern houses have porches for a variety of reasons. Porches serve as a place for people to gather and enjoy the outdoor air, providing much needed respite from the heat and humidity of summertime in the South.
Additionally, porches offer a unique form of shelter from the elements, such as rain and intense sunshine, while still maintaining an open, outdoor aesthetic. Porches can also be used as a space for children to play, as a dining spot, or just a place to relax and watch the world go by.
A porch can also bring an element of Southern charm and elegance to a home, creating an inviting, cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for entertaining friends and family. Finally, porches typically provide an additional layer of insulation to the home, further helping to keep their owners comfortable during the hot summer months.
In summary, porches offer valuable benefits to those who live in the South, and help to add an unmistakable character to the Southern home.
What are porches called in the South?
In the southern United States, a porch is often referred to as a “veranda,” “piazza,” “gallery,” or “portico. ” Veranda is the most commonly used term and it is defined as an open structure with a roof and sometimes walls around the edges, often used to enjoy a view of the garden or outdoors.
Depending upon the region, these are also known as balconies, patios, decks, lanai, lanais, mashrabiya, pergola and pagodas.
Porches were extremely popular during the Victorian era and were seen as a way of adding character and charm to a home. They often consist of furniture, plants, and other outdoor accessories that are designed to increase outdoor living spaces and provide a comfortable seating area for relaxing.
The typical Southern porch often features rocking chairs and a fan for the hot summer days. This provides the perfect place to enjoy a glass of sweet tea and watch the sunset. Porches were also used for entertaining guests and for sharing stories, in the days before television and the internet.
The South is known for its warm climate, so porches are a great way to take advantage of the outdoors. Porches can provide a much-needed respite from the heat of the day, as well as plenty of shade if the sun is too hot.
Also, they are an ideal spot to enjoy a book, play a game, or simply chat with friends. So if you are ever in the South, check out the local veranda and take in the beauty of the surrounding scenery!.
What makes a southern home?
A southern home is truly unique in that it has a style and character all its own. It’s a reflection of the rustic warmth, ancestral values, and gentility that make up the traditional Southern lifestyle and culture.
They often feature expansive front porches, where people can gather and sit, relax, and take in the beauty of the surrounding scenery.
Inside southern homes, you’ll find decor that is distinctly Southern, such as hardwood floors, cheery-colored walls and windows with lacy white curtains, upholstered furniture made of wood, leather, or fabric, and bright quilts and throws.
Gleaming brass and copper may adorn mantels and windowsills, along with original artwork derived from nature and a winding staircase or two.
Popular materials used outside of Southern homes include clapboard and other lap siding. The roof may be made of clay tiles, slate, and even metal. Typical embellishments on the exterior include shutters, columned porches, and dormers.
The charm and appeal of a southern home come from the combination of architectural design, materials, and decor. The distinctive and beautiful woodwork, thick sills, and volutes with acanthus-leaf detail are all part of its charm.
Southern homes also typically boast dramatic gables, bay windows, and generous porches that allow for comfortable, relaxed living. Together all of these qualities create the iconic look of a Southern home – and a warm, inviting place to call your own.
What do Americans call a porch?
In the United States, a porch is generally referred to as a covered exterior space connected to a building. A porch typically is either partially or completely enclosed, and serves as an additional area for relaxation or entertaining.
It may be partly constructed from brick, concrete, wood, and/or other materials, and can either be open or screened for protection from the elements. Porches are built in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and styles, and are often associated with large homes or holiday properties.
Traditionally, porches have railings along the sides, with a railing at the front. Porches are also often used for parties and outdoor gathering, as well as providing an outdoor space for relaxing and entertaining.
And it is often used to add dimension and character to a building.
What’s the difference between a veranda and a porch?
Verandas and porches are both outdoor living spaces, but there are some key differences between them. A veranda is typically an elevated structure (often attached to the house) with a roof built on or above the main level of the house.
This kind of outer living space may have open sides or be partially enclosed with a low wall or railing, creating a semi-private area that feels both sheltered and connected to the outdoors.
A porch, on the other hand, is usually located at ground level, either in front of or around the house. It may have a roof but is usually open to the elements and can include walls, windows, or other elements that block the weather while still allowing the homeowner to access the outdoors.
Porches don’t always have rails, and when they do, they tend to be more decorative than a veranda’s structure. Furthermore, porches are usually designed differently from verandas and in some cases may serve additional uses, such as covered seating or additional storage space.
What architectural style is Cape Cod?
The architectural style most typically associated with Cape Cod is the Cape Cod style. This style was popular in the early to mid-1900s and was based on the traditional New England dwelling design. The style is characterized by a symmetrical, box-like shape, often with a central front-facing gable and a centered front door.
Cape Cod homes have a steeply-pitched roof, often with gables and dormers. Other typical features of Cape Cod houses include one story, wood-sided construction, decorative shutters, and a central chimney.
Traditionally, the exterior of a Cape Cod home was painted in a neutral color. The Cape Cod style was designed to be practical and often incorporates high ceilings and large single-story additions to increase interior space.
