The Enduring Allure of Cape Cod-Style Architecture in the Pacific Northwest
This is the final in a six part series on classic and vintage design for homes found in Washington State. Cape Cod-style homes have long been admired for their simplicity, charm, and practicality. Originally designed to withstand the harsh coastal weather of New England, this architectural style has made its way across the country, including the Pacific Northwest. While it may seem surprising to find Cape Cod homes in cities like Seattle, Tacoma, and Gig Harbor, their timeless appeal and functional design have allowed them to blend seamlessly into the region’s landscape. The Origins of Cape Cod Architecture Cape Cod-style architecture traces its roots back to the early 1600s, when English colonists settled in what is now Massachusetts. Inspired by traditional English cottages, these homes were built to endure the cold, windy, and stormy conditions of the Atlantic coast. The defining features of Cape Cod homes included steeply pitched roofs to shed heavy snowfall, symmetrical f...