Cape Cod

By reusing an existing foundation and framing, a modest 1947 Cape Cod is transformed into an energy-efficient modern dwelling, directing a tight budget toward high-quality systems and finishes for superior value and sustainability.

The task of this project was to transform an existing 1947 single-story Cape Cod-style house into a compact and energy-efficient modern dwelling. The existing foundation, floor framing, and exterior wall framing were all reused for economy and sustainability. With a lean construction budget, the reuse of these structural elements allowed more money to be spent on building systems, insulation, and finishes. In this way, the overall building quality ended up higher than what would have been possible with the same budget utilizing new construction. A project like this demonstrates that even a structure with no historic significance can be successfully reutilized saving embodied energy, reducing landfill waste, and gaining better construction budget value.