The Cape Cod house style was born in 17th century Massachusetts, where a simple and sturdy design was necessary to withstand the region's inhospitable coastal weather. Low and wide with pitched roofs, Cape Cods were built with the most practical of concerns in mind—solid protection against high winds and wet, snowy storms. While this architectural style has spread far beyond the location that inspired its design, it still maintains its colonial-era charm and the key features that set it apart, like central chimneys, shingle siding, and shutters on every window, of course. These houses are also traditionally 1.5 stories due to the shape of their roofs, and that means that the master suite is almost always on the first floor while some or all of the other bedrooms are upstairs. This arrangement of sleeping quarters is particularly desired nowadays, and Cape Cods present it in the most natural layout. If you need assistance finding a beautiful Cape Cod house plan for your family, please email, live chat or call us at 866-214-2242 and we'll be happy to help!