Capes: Design Ideas for Renovating, Remodeling, and Building New (Updating Classic America) [BARGAIN PRICE] (Hardcover)
March 22, 2010 by admin
Filed under Remodeling Books
From Publishers Weekly
Within the architectural syntax of the American homestead, the Cape Cod house stands as one of our most durable and prolific symbols, writes Gitlin, an architect and a Cape-owner herself. With its “simple one-and-a-half story form” and its steeply pitched roof, often capped with a few dormers, the Cape has long been accepted as a fundamental unit of middle-class comfort and modesty, especially since its proliferation in the decades following World War II. This (more…)
I showed this book to a contractor friend who immediately went out and bought one for his own use. Lots of new ideas, with great illustrations and photos to refer to when discussing options for one’s own project. Highly recommended.
If the number of reviews seems scant, it’s probably because readers of this book are inspired to head for their drawing boards or take sledgehammer to wall, rather than compose a book review. Who has time to write a paragraph or two for Amazon when there are contractors to call and design decisions to make? This book will motivate you Cape owners out there to finally make the updates that you’ve been thinking about since you moved in — whether it’s just replacing rusty bathroom cabinets or adding that extra bedroom so your two boys don’t have to share a room anymore.
Jane Gitlin’s book is a pleasure to read — again and again. My wife and I own a classic Cape. We’ve spent the past 10 years renovating it, bit by bit. Now we’re contemplating a major exterior remodeling project and Jane’s book is a treasure trove of excellent ideas. The text and photos offer many creative alternatives to the standard, time-worn designs suggested by many architects and contractors. The book truly renewed our sense of pride in owning a classic Cape. Bravo!