Cape Cod Castor: Home or Retreat

Traditional Cape Cod houses inspired the creation of the Castor. Its shingle-clad exterior allows the home to fit discretely into a wooded or beach-side setting, while its simple, compact, massed shape makes it inexpensive to build, and efficient to heat. The plan is equally appropriate for construction as a year-round dwelling or a vacation retreat.

Entering, you step directly into a large open space that stretches from the front all the way to the rear. A wide coat closet fits neatly into the back of the vestibule on the left, which is next to the stairs.

Natural light beams into the living room through multipaned windows on two sides, and this area is entirely open to the dining room, which in turn flows on to the kitchen.

In the kitchen, a large work island adds to the already generous counter and cupboard space, and a roomy pantry adds even more storage capacity. Laundry appliances are nearby in a pass-through utility room that leads out onto a side stoop. A broom closet with shelves and a convenient powder room are also tucked into this hallway.

The home office, off the kitchen at the rear, is in an ideal location for handling household accounts, or even running a small, office-based business. It could also be a study, housing books and a family-shared computer.

Three bedrooms, a full bathroom and a loft are upstairs in the Castor. The loft could be outfitted as a study area or library. The owners' suite has a charming railed balcony that faces the front, and a surprisingly large walk-in closet.

The bathroom has a double vanity, combination tub and shower, and ample towel storage. Secondary bedrooms also have large closets.

Associated Designs is the original source for the Castor 30-450. For more information or to view other designs, visit www.AssociatedDesigns.com or call 800-634-0123.