This Cape Cod Makeover Takes Charming to a Whole New Level

This 1942 Cape Cod-style house with dormer windows had the homeowners at hello. But a few children later, the charming home started to feel cramped. The family decided a remodel was in order. In an effort to preserve the original style, the couple only refreshed the front of the home with white paint and some small architectural changes, then added on to the back, which provided the square footage their expanding family demanded.

After: Cape Escape

This home went from dark and dated to an upgraded beauty to behold. A new roof, fresh coat of paint, and refinished front door updated the appearance. The rear addition remains intentionally unnoticeable from the street side to match the scale of other homes in the neighborhood. New landscaping creates curb appeal and sets the scene for what's inside.

Walking on Sunshine

What was once a screen porch is now a year-round living space. Windows replaced screens, transforming the porch into a sunroom, and hardwood floors flow from the living room for continuity. White painted bricks create a neutral backdrop and add classic style to the sitting area. A glam color palette of pink and gold shows off the homeowner's personality.

Before: Overcrowded Space

Before this Cape Cod makeover was complete, the living room's furnishings were mismatched, and the bulky TV armoire encroached on floor space. The original mantel and tile surround looked outdated, while shutters on the windows between the living room and former screen porch (now the sunroom) blocked natural light.

After: Cool and Collected

A soft netural palette unites family-friendly furnishings with a variety of finishes and textures. Layered rugs and textiles add more dimension, and etched-glass windows replace the shutters, allowing light to flow from the sunroom into the living room. The fireplace is the room's new centerpiece, thanks to a marble tile surround and high-gloss dark gray paint on the mantel.

Sunlit Nook

What was once a wall between the living and dining rooms became square columns and base cabinets. Removing draperies and dark wallpaper brightened up the dining area, which is now the perfect setting for Sunday brunch. Pale gray walls reinforce the layout's open feel.

Before: Dreary Kitchen

The former kitchen was dreary and dated. Terra-cotta floors, original cabinets, and a low arched opening made the space feel dark and tight. To brighten things up, most of the original features were stripped away. Adding to the rear elevation enabled a roomier kitchen with a counter island.

After: Good Eats

Preserving the galley-style kitchen layout eliminated the need to move plumbing or electrical wiring—a budget-saver that allowed for new hardwood floors, cabinets, finishes, and appliances. A subway tile backsplash reflects light throughout and complements the clean lines of the newly painted cabinets. Stainless appliances and drawer pulls keep the kitchen contemporary.

Made Minimal

The kitchen ceiling appears higher since the range hood vent and white subway tile backsplash stretch to the crown molding. The absence of upper cabinetry on the range wall visually enlarges the space, while a few open shelves keep the work zone functional.

Study Hall

This cute little desk provides work space and storage in a corridor between the new cook space and screen porch. Subway tile continues from the kitchen to create a seamless transition between the two spaces. Kids' school supplies can be tucked away in drawers to keep them out of sight and orderly.

Mirror, Mirror

After sharing a space for so long, his-and-her vanities felt like a true luxury in this couple's primary bath. The two base cabinets offer plenty of storage, and a decorative mirror and pair of sconces tops off each vanity. Plank-wood walls echo the primary bedroom ceiling, while a funky chandelier brings a welcome dose of the unexpected.

Beautiful Bathing

Upstairs, the laundry room was reoriented to make way for an additional bedroom and bath. A roomy walk-in shower in the new primary bathroom features a convenient ledge for soaps and shampoos. Custom showerheads create a spa-like experience at home.

Bedroom Bliss

A larger primary bedroom was a top priority for the homeowners. Extending the back of the house made room for two large closets, a bigger primary bath, and more floor space. A plank-wood ceiling incorporates architectural character that makes the addition feel timeless. A muted color scheme with touches of gold turns the space into a relaxing sanctuary.