Spring 2016 AHCC

OUTDOOR LIVING TRENDS P. 44 MAN CAVES VS. SHE SHEDS P. 26

Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Cape Cod Spring / Summer 2016
capecodbuilders.org
TINY HOUSE
DESIGN CHALLENGE HOMEOWNERS’
DESIGN TIPS RESOURCE GUIDE
FOR SMALL
KITCHENS

Inpnrhoovodamutecivtes

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AT HOME ON CAPE COD LETTER TO OUR READERS

www.capecodbuilders.org Building with
OFFICERS Experience
President
Matthew Anderson THANK YOU FOR PICKING UP A COPY OF OUR 11TH ISSUE
Anderson Framing & Remodeling OF AT HOME ON CAPE COD. 
1st Vice President/Treasurer
Peter Kimball We are very proud of our magazine, which has become a valuable resource
AP Kimball Construction for homeowners and those seeking to purchase their first home. 
2nd Vice President/ Secretary
Trevor Meyer We do our best to bring you tips, trends and products that will educate and
Meyer and Sons, Inc hopefully help you with your housing purchase, maintenance and design
Immediate Past President choices. 
Mike Duffany
M. Duffany Builders Our members are local, insured and educated professionals; many have
Executive Officer been in business for decades and some for generations, like the family
Christine Duren businesses we spotlight in “A Household Name,” on page 12.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
YEAR DENOTES TERM EXPIRATION The experience of working for the family business is a familiar concept for
Warren H. Brodie ‘18 me. My father is in the building and remodeling business, and through him
Law Offices of Warren H. Brodie I developed a strong work ethic. He taught me that I could one day start
John Cotton ‘18 my own business, and for the past 12 years I’ve been the proud owner of
First Citizens’ Federal Credit Union my own house-framing and remodeling company. The business not only
Brian Harding ‘17 provides for my family, but also creates year-round, full-time jobs as well as
Andersen Windows safe, quality homes for other growing families. 
Stephen Klug ‘17
Fine Building & Finish The National Association of Home Builders estimates the average age of
Benjamin LaMora ‘17 a carpenter is 59. The family-run businesses we feature here represent
Lineal Construction Inc. many of our members who are turning over their companies to a younger
Tony Shepley ‘17 generation of movers and shakers.
Shepley Wood Products
Jack Stevenson ‘18 When you are thinking of building or remodeling your home, we hope you
Mid-Cape Home Centers will look to our members, young and old. 

PUBLISHER Thank you,
Christine Duren
[email protected]
EDITOR
Rachel Arroyo
[email protected]
ART DIRECTOR
Eric Brust-Akdemir
[email protected]
Produced by:

www.lhmediasolutions.com MATTHEW ANDERSON
President, Home Builders & Remodelers
On the cover: Association of Cape Cod
Photo by Brian Vanden Brink
Design and Construction: Polhemus
Savery DaSilva Architects Builders

2 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD



AT HOME ON CAPE COD

TABLE OF CONTENTS

32

Tiny House
Challenge

A test of skill, three

local firms design

plans for houses

under 400 square feet

12 44 26

REAL ESTATE LANDSCAPE
6 Upward Trajectory for 40 Green Industry Leader
Construction Market A look at how Cape Cod Landscaping
Industry Overview and Building
Association is shaping our local
Permit Activity Report landscape

BUILDING COMMUNITY 41 Irrigation System Update
12 A Household Name Conserve water while keeping your
Passing down the family business
yard healthy and green
16 Gallery of Events
Four can’t-miss events 44 Outdoor Living Trends 2016

HOME BUILDING & PRODUCTS & SERVICES
REMODELING 48 A Watchful Eye
18 Kitchen Confidential Companies offer property
Design tips for small kitchens
management services and peace
TECHNOLOGY of mind
22 Remote Access
Technology has revolutionized how 52 Septic System Check-Up
What you need to know
builders communicate with clients
55 Marketplace
TRENDS Innovative products for the home
26 Man Caves vs. She Sheds
58 Homebuilders’
HB&RACC Resource Directory
28 Solving the Housing Crisis
Revisiting ADU bylaws could be 63 Ad index

the answer 64 Chris’s Corner

4 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 5

40 PERMITS PERMITS
30 REAL ESTATE • INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
20 BARNSTABLE $3,171,000 BARNSTABLE $5,405,260
10 BOURNE BOURNE Upward Trajectory
$3,389,760 $1,753,450
6 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD BREWSTER BREWSTER for Construction Market
CHATHAM $1,102,000 CHATHAM $819,600
$720,825 $626,609 BY REBECCA MAYER KNUTSEN
DENNIS DENNIS
$8,393,500 $275,000 A few forces rippling through the home building and remodeling industry indicate
EASTHAM $934,860 EASTHAM $1,825,338 the sector is beginning to recover from the market assault of the recession. Taking
FALMOUTH FALMOUTH the industry’s temperature today is not vastly different from a few years ago, but it’s
HARWICH $2,795,000 HARWICH $275,000
MASHPEE $1,153,932 MASHPEE certainly headed in the right direction.
ORLEANS ORLEANS $1,391,977
PROVINCETOWN PROVINCETOWN SEPTEMBER 2015
SANDWICH $1,725,000 SANDWICH $600,000
40 New Residence (Includes rebuilds & multi-family)
TRURO $2,195,594 TRURO Residence Remodel, Renovation, Addition$4,843,493

WELLFLEET $0 WELLFLEET $790,000 30
YARMOUTH $701,400 YARMOUTH $330,787
20
$2,804,500 $6,090,000
10
$3,064,635 $1,984,233

$525,000 $700,000
$856,090 $820,801

$1,180,075 $2,067,500
$994,200 $409,150

$1,904,600 $1,465,700
$650,384 $882,192

$0 OCTOBER 2015 $0
$478,000 $439,591
New Residence (Includes rebuilds & multi-family)
$795,000 $1,540,000
$1,508,990 Residence Remodel, Renovation, Addition $1,238,380

$4,743,000 $600,000
$1,207,535 $343,167

$1,721,000 $400,000
$426,614 $753,700

$1,115,027 $671,856
$553,050 $500,891

cape wide

NEW RESIDENCE

BUILDING PERMITS TOTAL

FROM SEPT. 2015 THROUGH FEB. 2016

289

TOTAL DOLLAR VALUE:

$129,413,257

AVERAGE CONSTRUCTION VALUE:

$447,797

With about 15 percent of jobs in the
United States relying on a healthy home
building and remodeling industry, the
need for an upturn is great. “We have
a significant hole to dig out of, but
there are indications of an upswing,”
says Kermit F. Baker, project director
of the Remodeling Futures Program at
Harvard University’s Joint Center for
Housing Studies.

New home construction took the
biggest hit during the economic decline,
whereas the remodeling sector avoided
the devastation of a big dip. The recent
boost in business reflects an overall
improvement in the housing market.
Greater Boston recorded an above
average increase in home prices at
the end of 2015, however, the region
avoided the steep decline endured by
other parts of the nation during the
economic crisis.

According to Baker, 2016 is poised to
be a better year for home improvement
across the country. Those who
postponed remodeling projects due to
economic turmoil are beginning to open
their wallets and put long laid plans
into action. “We have solid momentum
behind us right now,” he says.

AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 7

REAL ESTATE • INDUSTRY OVERVIEW

TOTAL DOLLARS From Sept. 2015 through Feb. 2016 New Residence (Includes rebuilds & multi-family) Residence Remodel, Renovation, Addition

BARNSTABLE BOURNE BREWSTER CHATHAM DENNIS

$23,411,200 $4,178,934 $13,348,500 $9,342,730 $9,613,975
$18,733,887 $7,356,010 $8,702,261 $17,271,713 $16,175,102

EASTHAM FALMOUTH HARWICH MASHPEE ORLEANS

$2,485,000 $19,477,260 $4,307,500 $14,710,172 $8,700,425
$4,542,080 $14,516,022 $8,472,808 $4,862,526 $8,272,075

PROVINCETOWN SANDWICH TRURO WELLFLEET YARMOUTH

$151,000 $5,164,848 $7,838,000 $3,823,830 $2,859,883
$5,288,120 $5,349,419 $5,153,354 $4,589,710 $6,364,021

50 NOVEMBER 2015$3,664,006 $3,609,496 $3,643,158
$2,513,072
New Residence (Includes rebuilds & multi-family)

40 Residence Remodel, Renovation, Addition

PERMITS 30 $1,382,590

20 $9,356,940 $618,000 $1,062,455 $1,175,000 $1,404,027 $1,806,420 $1,480,125
$955,531 $1,051,520 $749,160
$3,280,000 $5,421,000 $3,400,400 $1,290,000 $0 $240,000 $259,430 $528,000
$2,310,000 $166,700 $532,500 $749,244
10
$872,000
$0 $711,000

BARNSTABLE
BOURNE

BREWSTER
CHATHAM

DENNIS
EASTHAM
FALMOUTH
HARWICH
MASHPEE
ORLEANS
PROVINCETOWN
SANDWICH

TRURO
WELLFLEET
YARMOUTH

cape wide INDUSTRY CHALLENGES
Paul L. Sullivan, president of the Sullivan Company, and former chair of the National
RESIDENCE REMODEL, Association of Home Builders (NAHB), identifies a skilled labor shortage as the industry’s
RENOVATION AND ADDITION single biggest challenge. Overall market forces tend to escalate on Cape Cod, where labor
and materials are in limited supply and generally more expensive. “Young people aren’t
PERMITS TOTAL entering the industry in the numbers required to support it,” says Sullivan, who supports
efforts to provide more training and marketing opportunities to promote the industry’s
FROM SEPT. 2015 THROUGH FEB. 2016 benefits, ramp up recruitment and foster the young workforce.

1,928 Sullivan predicts an eventual correction in the market that will raise the compensation of
tradespeople to attract more workers. “The days of carpenters making $100,000 per year
TOTAL DOLLAR VALUE: are coming fast,” he states.

$135,649,108 Falling on hard times, the industry responded with increased merger and acquisition
activity, and homebuilders waded into the remodeling sector out of necessity. These
AVERAGE CONSTRUCTION VALUE: factors have resulted in supply problems, according to Baker. “It’s difficult to get laborers,
land and materials,” he says. “Material shortages won’t have a significant long-term
$70,357 impact, but labor and land shortages will not let up in future years.”

8 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

REAL ESTATE • INDUSTRY OVERVIEW$3,310,930$2,704,715 $1,503,909

PERMITS $3,969,000 DECEMBER 2015$4,041,656$2,532,016 $680,000 $2,637,654
$2,765,384
40 New Residence (Includes rebuilds & multi-family)$781,500$400,000 $838,286 $5,043,000 $642,500 $4,052,945 $1,307,848 $2,055,000 $150,000 $405,000
Residence Remodel, Renovation, Addition$3,401,990$2,676,950$693,400$433,315 $1,974,652 $1,344,216

30 $375,000 $365,000 $950,000

20

10

$0 $0

BARNSTABLE
BOURNE

BREWSTER
CHATHAM

DENNIS
EASTHAM
FALMOUTH
HARWICH
MASHPEE
ORLEANS
PROVINCETOWN
SANDWICH

TRURO
WELLFLEET
YARMOUTH

In addition to an uneasy economic landscape, companies in meeting those requirements, but the law hasn’t dramatically
must contend with the introduction of new homebuilding and affected spending in the market.”
remodeling regulations and amendments to existing ones. The
EPA’s 2008 Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting On top of making changes to comply with lead paint legislation,
Rule, designed to protect people from lead-based paint hazards, OSHA instituted new fall protection regulations requiring
was subject to amendments in 2010 and 2011. “Lead paint was harnesses for workers at any height above six feet. Sullivan
an issue,” Baker states. “We needed to invest time and energy expressed concerns about the high number of remodelers

AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 9

10 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD PERMITS PERMITS
REAL ESTATE • INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
BARNSTABLE $819,000 FEBRUARY 2016$5,261,497 43 47 13 17 1 BARNSTABLE $690,000
BOURNE BOURNE 40$1,899,790
$0 New Residence (Includes rebuilds & multi-family) TOTAL PERMITS 30
BREWSTER $750,736 40 NEW RESIDENCE BREWSTER $857,834 20
CHATHAM CHATHAM 10
Residence Remodel, Renovation, Addition (INCLUDES REBUILDS $991,379
DENNIS 30 & MULTI-FAMILY) DENNIS
$1,000,000 43 12 14 17 $0
EASTHAM $699,287 20 EASTHAM $778,331
FALMOUTH FALMOUTH
HARWICH $1,225,000 10 HARWICH $2,362,730
MASHPEE MASHPEE $3,734,766
ORLEANS $3,339,886 ORLEANS
PROVINCETOWN PROVINCETOWN
SANDWICH $837,500 26 18 13 SANDWICH $665,475
$1,583,102
TRURO TRURO $2,335,126

WELLFLEET $0 9 WELLFLEET $520,000
YARMOUTH $819,735 YARMOUTH $800,352
10
$0 6 $2,139,360
$1,187,393
$1,959,653

$450,000 $700,000
$1,102,307
$1,757,567

$2,680,000 206 65 142 56 66 $4,729,652
$401,446 $557,910
TOTAL PERMITS
$2,100,000 RESIDENCE REMODEL, $800,000
$1,842,783
$3,467,556 RENOVATION,
ADDITION
$151,000 218 155 147 175 $0 JANUARY 2016
$961,825 $604,350
New Residence (Includes rebuilds & multi-family)
$150,000 $500,000
$1,244,734 $213,000 Residence Remodel, Renovation, Addition

$0 220 140 131 $200,000
$109,500
$986,000

$100,000 $1,193,400
$547,160
$768,776

$0 55 $140,000
$1,847,942 76
76 $575,639

REAL ESTATE

cape wide BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED,
INCLUDING MISCELLANEOUS

FROM SEPT. 2015 THROUGH FEB. 2016

2,489

TOTAL DOLLAR VALUE:

$283,276,166

For new residences, remodels, renovations and additions as
well as miscellaneous projects requiring a building permit,
including foundations, demolitions, pools and solar panels.

and other tradespeople who don’t know they must register with
the EPA and the Mass Department of Labor, and have certified
training in safe work practices.

The NAHB works diligently on behalf of members and the
industry, however, increased regulations translate into higher
work-associated costs. “As much as we all do to make legislation
and regulation fair for remodelers and [to] provide the proper
protection for consumers, the end result is an increased cost of
doing business,” Sullivan says.

MARKET FORCES
On the building side, the Joint Center for Housing Studies notes a
strong multi-family market and weak single-family market. Baker
attributes the imbalance to changing demographics and continued
fallout from the housing market downturn.

The market is responding to a less restrictive financing
atmosphere, and accordingly, younger households are beginning
to consider homebuilding investments. “They want to be in
urban locations, not in the suburbs,” Baker observes. “Once
construction levels return to near historic levels, urban and city
locations will be out of reach for younger generations. But the
weak construction market can work to their advantage in the
meantime.”

During the last six to eight years, the suburban investment has
been low, largely because of the unsettled economic climate.
“We’ll see a return to the suburban model because prices will
become more competitive and urban land will be hard to come by,”
Baker states.

Overall, the pulse of the industry is positive and the demand for
safe, high-quality and efficient housing continues to grow. “As
long as the working population responds to needs, there will
be strong opportunities for future generations of builders and
remodelers,” Sullivan concludes.

AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 11

BUILDING COMMUNITY • FAMILY BUSINESS

Local family-owned building and remodeling
companies carry on the legacy

BY REBECCA MAYER KNUTSEN

W oven into the fabric of the community, family-owned home
building and remodeling companies have a history of offering

clients the comfort of familiarity and the legacy of longevity.

A handful of these Cape Cod businesses share how they got

Robert Fox of R.K. their start and what it takes to pass the torch along to the
Fox Builders and his
next generation.
son Bob.

12 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

BUILDING COMMUNITY • FAMILY BUSINESS

CAPIZZI HOME IMPROVEMENT

Poised to celebrate its 40th anniversary this year, Capizzi Home Improvement is a family-owned,
interior and exterior remodeling and restoration company in Cotuit. Founded by Thomas Capizzi,
Sr., with the promise of high-quality service, the company’s day-to-day operations now rest in the
hands of Thomas Capizzi, Jr. “Building and construction is in our blood,” explains Tom Sr., pointing
to several generations of builders, carpenters and
stonemasons in his family tree.

Having caught construction fever at a young age,

there was never a question of what Tom Sr. would

do when he was old enough to strike out on his

own. “I helped my father remodel the house

we lived in,” he says. “He was a carpenter and

builder, and did everything from the foundation

up. I always had an interest in the field.”

Thomas Capizzi, Jr. and

Similarly, Tom Jr. was also enamored at an early Thomas Capizzi, Sr.

age, often tagging along with his father to hang

a gutter or set a window on a jobsite. Growing

up in the family business allowed the third-generation tradesman to absorb the right skills to be

successful. Now the company’s president, Tom Jr. took the reins in the early 2000s. Father and son

continue to work together and carry on the company’s commitment to quality.

“My father taught me to always do the best job I can,” recalls Tom Sr. “We take care of customers’
needs first, follow through on promises and use the best materials we can find. I passed all of that
on to my son.”

R.K. FOX BUILDERS

A custom home building and remodeling firm in Mashpee, R.K. Fox Builders got its start in
1978 when Robert Fox pursued his dream of building custom homes. Fox blended his business
experience with his passion for carpentry and design to establish a company founded on trust and
loyalty.

“Every dinner conversation from the time I can remember had to do with the business,” says son
Bob Fox, who was born shortly before the company was established. It’s no wonder that he shares
his father’s passion and now runs the company’s new construction division. The company is a
well-oiled machine, which Bob attributes to his father’s friendly charm and ability to bring people
together to work as a team.

The team feels honored when selected to build a family’s home. “The task is far greater than
simply building,” says Bob. “We learn how the family lives and then develop the perfect plan for
their specific needs. Attention to detail is what separates the good from the great.”

R.K. Fox Builders’ clientele feel comfortable knowing the family is looking out for their best
interests every day. “In any family business, it’s not just about the product you produce or sell, it’s
about satisfying the customer and building relationships,” Bob asserts.

Bob credits his father with everything he has learned about the business, and for getting him to
where he is today. “He’s a great leader who knows how to get the job done right and finish on
schedule,” he says. “He expects, and delivers, perfection.”

AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 13

BUILDING COMMUNITY • FAMILY BUSINESS

MCPHEE ASSOCIATES OF CAPE COD The team enjoys watching a home grow from a concept into a
finished product. “We know memories will be built in the home in
Rob McPhee, president of McPhee Associates of Cape Cod in East the future during holidays, family gatherings, baby showers and
Dennis, remembers his mother packing his lunch at a young age graduations,” Rob explains. “The look on a client’s face when a
so he could jump in his father’s truck and go to work. “I swept job project is complete is priceless.”
sites and did various other jobs,” he recalls. “I loved being around
the heavy equipment and seeing how the process went together. It CAPE ASSOCIATES, INC
gave me a good appreciation for what goes on in the field and how
it all comes together.” Despite passing through the hands of three generations,
Cape Associates remains true to its core values of commitment,
Fast-forward to 2012, when Rob’s father, Bob McPhee, assumed quality and integrity. Established by the grandfather of current
the role of founder/treasurer, and Rob took over as president. president and CEO Matt Cole, the full-service custom homebuilder
When Bob eventually embraces a full retirement, Rob intends in North Eastham, Chatham and Yarmouthport first opened its
to carry on the same great service with which the company was doors in 1971.
founded in 1972. “My father is a role model and taught me a lot,”
Rob explains. “He’s knowledgeable and trustworthy and brings a Three very different leaders have helmed the company. Cole’s
high level of confidence to every situation. I have big shoes to fill.” father took over for his grandfather before eventually passing
the business to him—each bringing new ideas and a variety of
The firm’s philosophy is that every client is an extension of the business styles to the table. “But at the core, Cape Associates
family, and each one of those clients has the power to create more remains the same business my grandfather started,” Cole says.
work through referrals. “We make sure to do a good job for a fair “We don’t stray far from the roots of our company.”
price so everyone is happy,” Rob says.

PHOTO DAN CUTRONA

Bob McPhee and son Rob

14 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

BUILDING COMMUNITY • FAMILY BUSINESS The Genuine. The Original.

Left to right: Lindsay, #1 Builders Preferred Brand
Casey and Matt Cole

A Recognizable Sign of Quality.
Overhead Door Company Offers Dependable Design Assistance,

Installation and Prompt Service and Repair.
The Overhead Door Company of Cape Cod
Servicing Cape Cod, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard
50 Joaquim Road, Hyannis, MA 02601 • 1-800-640-6251

www.overheaddoorcapecod.com

YOU KNOW US - WE KNOW ELECTRICITY!

REILLY ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS, INC.

CAPE COD’S ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR.

Each transition in leadership required meticulous planning, 110 Old Townhouse Road Residential & Commercial
strong communication and even a bit of luck to carry the South Yarmouth, MA Electrical Panel Upgrades
company through, Cole notes. In its most recent transition, Scott Ventura, Director Fire Alarm & Security Systems
Cole’s father gave up his post to his three children. Cole’s sisters 1-508-771-2040 Generator Installation & Wiring
hold management positions in accounting and human relations. WWW.GORELCO.COM
MA License #16666A Landscape Lighting
Mirroring the multigenerational format of the company itself, Additions & Remodeling
the team of more than 100 employees forms multigenerational 1-888-GO Exterior Line & Power Distribution
relationships with clients. “We establish lifelong relationships,
often working with sons and daughters of former clients,” Cole EMERGENCY SERVICE
says.

A testament to the company’s focus on relationship building, a
former client recently hired Cape Associates to tear down and
then rebuild a house the company built in the 1980s. “I feel lucky
to have this opportunity, and it means so much more to me that
my grandfather and father worked hard to build the company,”
says Cole.

AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 15

BUILDING COMMUNITY • GALLERY OF EVENTS

DATEBOOK

Celebrate hydrangeas, raise funds for local landscaping scholarships,
learn about construction-related job opportunities, and find out which local
professionals from the building and remodeling industry are garnering
attention for their hard work and talent: Here are four upcoming events you
won’t want to miss.

JULYPHOTO: BEN HUGHES Course on Route 132 in Hyannis. Established homeowners,” said Christine Duren, executive
PHOTO CREDIT: SARAH MURRAYby the Cape Cod Landscaping Association, officer of the HBRACC. “Members are finding
The Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival celebrates the golf tournament, now in its 27th year, they have to schedule projects all the way
one of the Cape’s most well-known and raises scholarship money for Cape Cod into 2017 or, worst case scenario, turn
beloved blooms with a 10-day event starting students who are pursuing a career in the down work due to the lack of available help.
July 8. There will be more than 80 private landscaping industry. The annual fundraiser We’re holding this event to spur interest in
gardens offering daily tours from 10 a.m. also raises scholarship money for the the design and construction fields, and to
to 4 p.m. (see website for schedule), children of CCLA members who are enrolled help create, fill and keep jobs here on the
garden workshops and lectures as well as in college. Last year $8,000 was awarded Cape.” This year’s Residential Construction
promotions at participating nurseries and to several deserving students in honor of Career Day will be held on Thursday, October
home centers. For a list of tour sites and Mike Stacy, an active member of the CCLA 13, 2016, at the Cape Cod Fairgrounds in
activities, visit CapeCodHydrangeaFest.com. who passed away at 41. There will also be East Falmouth. For more information, visit:
Tickets are $5/pp for each garden. You can an auction, raffles, a hole-in-one contest constructioncareerdaycc.org.
also buy tickets online ($6.27/ea). Proceeds and more. Visit capecodlandscapes.org
support local non-profits, making this to register for the golf tournament ($110/ NOVEMBER
summertime event a fun way to pick up some pp; $130 after Sept. 9). The CCLA is also
new gardening techniques and inspiration for accepting cash and prize donations for this Every two years the Home Builders and
your own garden while supporting the local worthy cause. Remodelers Association of Cape Cod
community. hosts the BRICC [Builders and Remodelers
OCTOBER Industry on Cape Cod] Awards, an event that
The John Stacy golf honors and celebrates excellence within the
tournament team. Last year hundreds of Cape Cod high school residential construction industry on Cape Cod
juniors and seniors, accompanied by their and the Vineyard. With more than 40 award
SEPTEMBER school and career guidance counselors, categories, the BRICC Awards recognizes
attended the first annual Residential all facets of the residential building and
Mark your calendar for the Mike Stacy Golf Construction Career Day. Hosted by the remodeling industries, including sales,
Tournament! This year the event will be held Home Builders and Remodelers Association marketing, design and landscaping. This year
on Saturday, September 24, at Hyannis Golf of Cape Cod, the event aims to introduce local professionals have until July 31, 2016,
young adults to the field of residential to submit their projects. (Visit briccawards.
construction and other building- and com for more information.) Winners will be
remodeling-related careers, such as announced in a grand ceremony on November
landscaping. “The residential construction 10 at Wequassett Resort, and written about in
industry is one of the primary economic our fall/ winter issue. So, don’t forget to pick
drivers on the Cape, and this labor shortage up a copy!
is a vital issue for our members and for
Cataldo Custom Builders, Inc.,
win at the 2014 BRICC Awards.

16 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD



HOME BUILDING & REMODELING

Kitchen
Confidential

Local designers share tips on how to maximize the
space and usage of a small kitchen.

BY REBECCA MAYER KNUTSEN

W ith advance planning and the ingenuity of a sharp whom,” he says. “It’s also helpful to learn what did and did
designer, a small kitchen can earn just as many not work in the existing kitchen.” Proper storage tops the
accolades as its cavernous cousin. A thoughtful list of challenges presented by a small kitchen layout. Every
layout, complete with smart storage solutions inch of space must serve a purpose, and some elements may
and creative design, is perhaps the most critical need to perform a double function to maximize space. “A lot
element. At Home talked with Cape Cod kitchen of thought and detail goes into designing a small space,”
designers, who shared some tricks of the trade for explains Hart.
those ready to tackle a small kitchen remodel.
Kathy Coady, principal designer at New Angle Designs
Designers like Gail O’Rourke of White Wood Kitchens in in Yarmouthport, suggests multiple uses for every item
Sandwich steer clients to the benefits of a small kitchen, incorporated into a small space. A dining table, used to
rather than ticking off a list of drawbacks. Small-kitchen entertain at night, can double as a desk during the day.
owners should embrace and celebrate the space for its Custom built-in cabinets, benches and bookshelves also
functionality, efficiency and low cost profile. optimize small spaces. “We’re careful to include as much
function as possible with the type of storage and access
Chuck Hart, partner at Lewis & Weldon Custom Kitchens in that each client needs,” explains Rebecca H. Brown, design
Hyannis, stresses the importance of nailing down a client’s manager at Classic Kitchens & Interiors in Hyannis. “Some
wish list before planning the layout. “We focus on getting prefer open shelves in lieu of upper cabinets, and others
a clear understanding of how the space will be used and by want as many cabinets that will fit.”

18 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

PHOTO: RANDALL PERRY, COURTESY OF CLASSIC KITCHENS & INTERIORSHOME BUILDING & REMODELING • SMALL KITCHENS PHOTO COURTESY OF MASCO CABINETRY LLC

Above: A wall of windows adds natural PHOTO COURTESY OF MASCO CABINETRY LLC
light, making this kitchen remodel by Classic

Kitchens & Interiors feel less confined.
Top right: For a clean and clutter-free
look, place kitchenwares out of sight with
convenient cabinetry like this Merillat
Masterpiece® Wall Vertical Lift Appliance

Garage.
Bottom: Multi-level drawers, like this one by

Merillat, offers double the storage.

AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 19

HOME BUILDING & REMODELING • SMALL KITCHENS

PHOTO:T DAN CUTRONA

Above: Creating ample storage space was a
priority for Lewis & Weldon, who designed
this 14-by-10-foot Harwich Port kitchen that
includes custom cabinetry throughout.

in their words... Appliances and adequate storage tend to vie for attention in a
kitchen’s layout. Because appliances aren’t negotiable, designers
White Wood Kitchens: Gail did a magnificent job transforming find creative ways to borrow additional storage areas from
a 1950s kitchen into a total working small kitchen. She used otherwise wasted space. Some inventive space expanders include
every conceivable space and then some, and she was a toe-kick drawers, multi-level cutlery dividers and deep cabinets.
pleasure to work with. –LINDA
Corralling clutter is another approach to making a small space
Classic Kitchens & Interiors: Thank you for all your hard work feel and appear larger. “Small spaces tend to look smaller and
in making everything so beautiful. It was a pleasure working more chaotic if counters are chock-full of stuff,” says Brown, who
with you and I’m thrilled with my new kitchen. – AMY recommends including appliance garages on counters to hide
small appliances like toasters, blenders and coffee pots.
New Angle Designs: Kathy has great vision and her ideas are
unique and thoughtful. She brings a thorough knowledge of “An uncluttered, small space allows your eye to travel around the
design concepts to every aspect of the project. room uninterrupted, giving you the feeling of space,” says Coady.
– SUSAN AND MICHAEL To achieve an uncluttered look, she encourages clients to think
about how they plan to use the space. For example, if the client
Lewis & Weldon Custom Kitchens: You created the most reads the mail at the kitchen counter, then storage and trash bins
beautiful, serene and functional kitchen we could imagine. need to be handy.
Your attention to detail, craftsmanship and follow-through
were exceptional. – TRACEY AND JOE With homes on Cape Cod, the coastal look appears to reign
supreme in kitchen designs. Luckily, the trend can help a small
20 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD kitchen feel less confined. “Most clients want a light, airy feel
to their spaces regardless of size, and this application typically
makes the space feel larger,” Brown says.

HOME BUILDING & REMODELING • SMALL KITCHENS

Small-kitchen owners may have more money in their pockets This 10-by-8-foot kitchen, designed by Gail
at the end of the day, when compared with their counterparts O’Rourke of White Wood Kitchens and built
with large kitchens. “A small kitchen eliminates some of by Greg Clancy of Clancy Construction, fits 15
the costs associated with a larger kitchen,” says O’Rourke.
“Countertops and cabinets are expensive, so having only cabinets for plenty of storage space.
what you need in a kitchen gives the best value for the
dollar,” she says. Additionally, with fewer places to store PHOTO CREDIT: CHIP CLANCY
kitchen essentials, owners tend to purchase fewer items.
“The minimal amount of storage prevents homeowners from
stockpiling dishes and food they may not use or need, and
allows everything to be within reach,” O’Rourke observes.

When Hart has difficulty zeroing in on the client’s taste—an
element he says is essential to designing a new space—he
points them in the direction of Houzz and Pinterest. “They
are great tools that clients can use for inspiration and to help
narrow down the focus of a particular idea,” he explains.

Coady reminds clients that well-planned, multifunctional
small spaces will flourish for many years. “Executing a floor
plan ensures you’re making the right decisions,” she suggests.
“In the end, you will have a successfully functioning and
happy space.”

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AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 21

TECHNOLOGY • REMOTE ACCESS

Communication technology has revolutionized
how builders stay in touch with clients.

BY REBECCA MAYER KNUTSEN

apping into a few high-tech tools can help “Technology is great at keeping owners who remodel
T bridge the communication gap between builder
and homeowner, especially when separated or build from afar in the loop,” says Samantha
by thousands of miles. Homebuilders and Nicholson of Encore Design/Remodel in Dennisport and
Sudbury. “It’s a quick and mostly instantaneous way of

communicating.”

remodelers on Cape Cod—a haven for seasonal,

second homes—often work with clients hailing Remote homeowners are welcomed into the project
from far-flung places such as Hong Kong, fold with the use of digital cameras, smart-phone apps,
England and France. Whether in Wellesley or video streaming and cloud-based software, all recruited
Philadelphia, clients who cannot physically be to improve the communication process. Technology-
enabled communication makes conversations between

on site present some challenges. both parties easy, quick and more convenient.

With various modes of communication at the ready—from Most importantly, homeowners want to see and
email and text messaging to online project management experience the construction site first-hand, and be
tools—mismatched time zones and physical distances able to provide feedback quickly and clearly. “Today’s
are easy to manage. Luckily, there are countless online technology helps tremendously, as we can click a photo,
aids available to streamline the communications process send it directly to our customer, and get a response
and keep clients privy to every step of the project. back quickly, unlike years ago when it could take days,”

22 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

TECHNOLOGY • REMOTE ACCESS

explains Glenn MacKenzie, co-owner at CERAMIC u PORCELAIN u NATURAL STONE u GLASS u METAL
MacKenzie Brothers Corp. in Marstons
Mills. Best Tile is New England’s ultimate destination for tile and
stone, serving Architects, Designers, and Homeowners.
MacKenzie Brothers and
Encore Design/Remodel BestTile.com DEDHAM 25 McNeil Way (781) 461-0406
use construction PLYMOUTH 10 Pilgrim Hill Road (508) 732-8911
management software
program BuilderTREND to AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 23
communicate with clients as
well as suppliers, subcontractors
and anyone else involved in the project.
“The program helps our total team stay
connected and on top of our game, day by
day and job by job,” says MacKenzie.

With BuilderTREND, builders and
remodelers can document job notes from
the field, shoot photos for clients and
assign tasks to subcontractors. Clients can
view updates on cost, photos of the home’s
progress and even check the weather
rolling into the area.

Encore Design/Remodel also uses join.me
to facilitate conference calls. “We use this
software to share computer screens during
the selection and designing processes,”
Nicholson explains. “It gives the client
and the designer/architect the assurance
they’re on the same page.”

Homeowners are most interested in
keeping the project on schedule and
viewing its progress. A client working with
Cataldo Custom Builders in East Falmouth
is given private log-in information to check
their home’s progress—complete with
more than a dozen weekly photos—on
the company’s website. “The interaction
keeps us on our on toes and holds us
accountable,” shares Ralph Cataldo,
president of Cataldo Custom Builders.

With so many tools at their disposal,
builders and remodelers report that
clients are happier and more informed.
“Nowadays, everyone is accustomed to
getting the answer they need fast, whether
it’s through a text, email, website or
phone call,” Nicholson says. “Technology
allows answers and solutions to be readily

TECHNOLOGY • REMOTE ACCESS accessible at all times for both
parties.” Beefed-up communication
The history of communication timeline is a boon for local clients as well, who
are often juggling work and home
Circa 30,000 BC Homo sapiens create cave paintings to communicate. Chauvet Cave in demands that prevent them from
Southern France contains the oldest known cave paintings in the world. poking their heads in as frequently
1450 The first printing press with metal movable type is invented by Johannes Gutenberg. as they might like. “Communication
1775 U.S. Postal Service is established. is a big challenge regardless of the
1837 Samuel Morse, who developed Morse code eight years prior, patents the long-distance distance,” says MacKenzie.
telegraph line.
1876 – Alexander Graham Bell patents the telephone. All the technological bells and
1878 – Thomas Edison patents the phonograph. whistles in the world, however, will
1901 – Guglielmo Marconi transmits radio signals from Cornwall, England, to Newfoundland, not make up for a poorly executed
Canada. communication plan. The most
1939 - The first commercial television broadcast goes live at the New York World’s Fair. crucial part of a remodeling project
1964 – Xerox Corporation introduces first commercial fax machine. is to communicate with your clients,
1969 – The first hosts of ARPANET, Internet’s ancestor, are connected. and frequently, says Cataldo, who
1971 – The first ARPANET network email message is transmitted. recommends establishing a formal
1974 - Vinton G. Cerf and Robert E. Kahn publish the paper A Protocol for Packet Network communication schedule during the
Intercommunication, where they outline a system for interconnecting networks, which we pre-construction meeting.
now know as the Internet.
1976 – The personal computer (PC) market is born.
1984 – The first handheld cell phone, Motorola’s DynaTAC 8000X, hits the market.
1989 – Sir Tim Berners-Lee invents the World Wide Web.
1992 - Neil Papworth sends the first SMS (or text message).
2004 – Facebook, the world’s largest social network, is launched.
2005 – Video-sharing website YouTube makes its debut.
2006 – Twitter, a micro-blogging social networking service, is introduced.
2010 - FaceTime is launched as an iPhone feature.

眀栀攀爀攀 椀猀 琀栀攀 戀攀猀琀 瀀氀愀挀攀 昀漀爀 

眀栀攀爀攀 椀猀 琀栀攀 戀攀猀琀 瀀氀愀挀攀 昀漀爀 䜀爀攀愀琀 䤀搀攀愀猀 匀琀漀渀攀眀漀漀搀 倀爀漀搀甀挀琀猀
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夀漀甀爀 猀攀愀爀挀栀 攀渀搀猀 栀攀爀攀⸀

圀漀漀搀 䘀氀漀漀爀椀渀最 簀 匀琀漀渀攀 倀愀瘀攀爀猀 簀 䘀椀爀攀 倀椀琀猀 䬀椀琀猀 簀 伀甀琀搀漀漀爀 匀栀漀眀攀爀 䬀椀琀猀 簀 䜀爀愀渀椀琀攀
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眀眀眀⸀匀琀漀渀攀眀漀漀搀倀爀漀搀甀挀琀猀⸀挀漀洀

24 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

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AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 25

TRENDS • MAN CAVES VS SHE SHEDS

W e are all familiar with the term “man
cave,” used to describe a room or area
of a home where men can escape to
enjoy some of their favorite pastimes. But,
have you heard of a “she shed”? Women
are carving out their own sanctuaries of
relaxation. Cozy spaces ideal for reading,
crafting or just lounging, she sheds
are women’s answer to man caves. So,
naturally we ask: how do she sheds stack
up against man caves?

RECLINER Nothing says man cave like a guy DAY BED
propped in a recliner with the TV AND THROW
remote in his hand, but she sheds
are bringing back another favorite PILLOWS
furniture piece for relaxation: the READING
day bed. Perfect for sitting and
reading or that late afternoon nap, a NOOK
day bed provides a versatile option.
Throw pillows provide a pretty and
decorative touch, not to mention
another layer of comfort and
cushioning for that nap.

BIG SCREEN Men love massive televisions for
TV watching a game or movie. She
sheds opt for a more peaceful
setting, incorporating comfy spaces,
sometimes in the form of a window
nook.  Here you can sit and read,
listen to music, or enjoy nature.

26 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

TRENDS • MAN CAVES VS SHE SHEDS

When you’re enjoying a momentary getaway, a snack might be in order. A mini fridge and
bar seem to be man-cave staples, but most she sheds opt for a small table and chairs that
are perfect for two and often outside. This creates a great place to catch up with friends and
enjoy the nice weather.

BAR/FRIDGE OUTDOOR
SEATING

POOL TABLE, Man caves provide an opportunity for men CRAFTING/
DARTS, to engage in some of their favorite activities POTTERY/
and she sheds are no different. Many of the GARDENING
AND OTHER sheds we’ve seen incorporate the individual’s SUPPLIES
GAMES favorite hobbies and can serve as a studio or
SPORTS workspace. Some of the most popular themes
are crafting, art, pottery and gardening.
MEMORABILIA
A man cave provides a space to hang up all those CHANDELIERS,
posters, trophies and autographed baseballs FLOWERS,
you’ve collected throughout the years—mainly
because they would be out of place anywhere QUIRKY ART
else in the house. A she shed is much the same.
As a separate space, it can be decorated without
worrying about disrupting the “flow” to the home.
This leaves women with plenty of opportunities
to get creative, whether that entails painting the
walls a surprisingly bold color or hanging up a
funky piece of artwork found at a local craft show.

Editorial courtesy of the National Association of
Home Builders (NAHB) at nahb.org.

AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 27

HOME BUILDING & REMODELING • ADU

Revisiting Accessory Dwelling Unit bylaws
could be the answer

BY ROB DUCA

K atrina Fryklund is a 26-year-old working professional who was
born on Cape Cod and isn’t looking to leave. But she’s not sure if
it will be possible to stay when the time comes to raise a family.
“Cape Cod is a great place to live, but I know it would be so much
easier to go off-Cape to buy a house,” she says. “Even finding a
rental is incredibly frustrating.”

28 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

HOME BUILDING & REMODELING • ADU

Young adults, couples raising families and retirees are all ADUs offer a variety of benefits. They increase the local
struggling to find affordable housing on Cape Cod, where housing supply, and when supply increases rental prices
prices are high and rentals are in short supply. Fryklund decrease to more realistic levels. They are attractive
spent four months searching for a rental that fit her budget, options for young adults entering the workforce, for
eventually locating a two-bedroom property in Orleans only empty-nesters, for low- or moderate-income residents
after a fortuitous tip from a woman in her grandmother’s raising a family and for elderly or disabled persons who
knitting group. “Anything that was appealing and affordable want to live close to family or caregivers.
was seasonal,” she says. “And then there were all the second
homes. I’d drive around the Cape and see all these empty “It’s not that we have a housing shortage on the Cape,
homes that no one wanted to rent out.” it’s a lack of diversity in the types of housing that is
available,” says Paul Niedzwiecki, executive director of
Mairead Graf wanted to move into a larger home in Dennis with the Cape Cod Commission.
her husband and 3-year-old son, but she knew day care bills The Commission has put forth a model ADU bylaw
would slice into the monthly mortgage payment. Graf’s father, that will be included with the Regional Policy Plan to
Jim Matthews, offered to relocate from New Hampshire to be presented in June. Every Cape Cod town currently
the Cape and watch his grandson during the day. He found an treats ADUs differently, with strict local ordinances
apartment above a garage in Yarmouth, only to discover that regarding how these dwellings can be used. Rules vary
he could not rent it unless he was related to the homeowner on lot dimensions, design standards, long-term deeds
or the apartment qualified as an affordable housing unit. It and income requirements. Many towns stipulate that the
eventually worked out, but not before months of filling out primary homeowner can rent only to a relative.
forms and applying for permits.
“Why should DNA matter?” says Wendy Northcross, CEO
“They had to qualify the apartment, and then he had to qualify of the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce.
to meet the affordable income standard,” Graf says. “Here we
were, two young people trying to raise our family on the Cape, CLEANING AND GREENING THE CAPE,
and my dad was offering to come down to help with day care, ONE STOP AT A TIME.
and he had to jump through all these hoops in order to do
that.” 508.255.1419 nausetdisposal.com

Many local business people believe that accessory dwelling RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL DISPOSAL SERVICES
units, also called ADUs, will ease the housing crisis. The SINGLE STREAM RECYCLING • ROLL OFFS
Cape Cod Economic Development Council, Home Builders SPECIAL JOBS • HOUSE CLEAN OUTS
& Remodelers Association of Cape Cod, the Cape Cod
Commission and the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce have PORTABLE TOILETS • EVENT RESTROOM TRAILERS
banded together to create a standardized ADU bylaw that they
hope will be adopted by every Cape Cod town. AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 29

“ADUs make perfect sense,” says Tony Shepley, immediate past
chairman of the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce’s Economic
& Community Development Pillar. “They’re not just for people
starting out; they’re also for older people looking to downsize.
And they help young families purchase a house because the
rental income helps pay the mortgage. I think anybody who
says ADUs are a bad idea has blinders on.”

ADUs are defined as additional living quarters located on
single-family lots that are independent of the primary dwelling
unit. These accessory dwelling units are equipped with kitchen
and bathroom facilities and can be either detached or attached
to the main residence.

HOME BUILDING & REMODELING • ADU

ADU BYLAWS BY TOWN EASTHAM FALMOUTHHARWICH MASHPEE ORLEANS PROVINCESTAONWDNWICHTRURO WELLFLEETYARMOUTH
CAPCEOCMOMMD OISDSEILONBYBLAARWNSTABBLOEURNE BREWSTERCHATHAMDENNIS

BY RIGHT

INCOME OR FAMILY
RESTRICTION

LONG-TERM DEED
RESTRICTION

OWNER OCCUPANCY
REQUIREMENT

ADDITIONAL
OR SPECIFIC
DIMENSIONAL OR LOT
REQUIREMENTS

DESIGN STANDARDS

MAXIMUM SIZE 1000sf/ 900sf 800sf/ 750sf/ 900sf/ 800sf 1000sf 1400sf 1200sf 800sf
50% 50% 30% 50% 40%

APPROVAL/ Building ZBA ZBA Building ZBA Building ZBA ZBA PB ZBA Building ZBA PB PB ZBA ZBA
ENFORCEMENT Comm.
Comm. Comm. Comm.

Accessory Dwelling Units: 101 LONG-TERM DEED RESTRICTION: For a specified period of time, the occupancy
of an ADU is limited to income-eligible households by a restriction on the portion
of the home containing the ADU, which is recorded against title at the Registry of
Deeds.

DEFINITION: Accessory dwelling units are separate housing units created as OWNER OCCUPANCY REQUIREMENT: The property owner must occupy either
additional living quarters in single-family homes. ADUs are equipped with their the primary residence or the accessory dwelling unit.
own kitchen and bathroom facilities, and can either be attached or detached from
the main residence. ADDITIONAL OR SPECIFIC DIMENSIONAL OR LOT REQUIREMENTS: ADUs
are subject to minimum lot size requirements or other additional or specific
There are three types of accessory dwelling units: interior, attached and detached. dimensional requirements, such as height constraints or setback regulations that
An INTERIOR DWELLING UNIT is located within the primary dwelling and is are not required of single-family homes that do not have ADUs.
typically built through the conversion of existing space, such as an attic or
basement. ATTACHED ADUS are added onto the side or rear of the primary DESIGN STANDARDS: An ADU must comply with certain design standards; for
dwelling, but can also be constructed on top of an attached garage. DETACHED example, there may be guidelines for the location of an ADU’s front entrance.
ADUS are structurally separate from the primary dwelling.
MAXIMUM SIZE: The square footage of an ADU is limited to either a size
CHART KEY: percentage of the main residence or is stated as a set amount of square footage.
BY RIGHT: Accessory dwelling units are allowable, by right, on residentially zoned
lots, and do not require approval by a local land use review board. APPROVAL/ ENFORCEMENT: Regulations are overseen by the building
commissioner (Building Comm.), zoning board of appeals (ZBA) or town planning
INCOME OR FAMILY RESTRICTION: ADUs are restricted to tenants who are board (PB).
family members (by blood, marriage or adoption) and/or low- to moderate-income
earners. CAPE COD COMMISSION MODEL BYLAW: For towns that are creating new
regulations around ADUs or updating existing ones, the Cape Cod Commission has
created a draft model bylaw with their regulatory recommendations.

30 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

HOME BUILDING & REMODELING

Comparing the permitting process across A B E T T E R WAY TO F R A M E YO U R V I E W
the Cape communities is like comparing
apples and oranges. “We look at this THE EASY WAY
from a regional view,” Northcross says.
“What if there was a bylaw that every Marvin Design Gallery by MHC understands
town could adopt that would create how windows and doors capture what you love
consistency. Developers could then
work on projects without worrying what about living on the Cape and Islands.
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Niedzwiecki agrees that the Cape must
be proactive with ADUs. “If we’re going WE CAN MAKE YOUR VISION COME TO LIFE.
to see the development we need, each
community has to be playing by the 73 Falmouth Road • Route 28 • Hyannis, MA 02601
same rules,” he says. “An ADU bylaw
that covers every town would go a long 508-771-6278 www.marvinbymhc.com
way toward solving the housing issue. It
will bring onto the market housing that’s MDG_By_MHC_At_Home_on_CapeCod_maAg.TindHdO2ME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 230/2156/16 12.:52 PM31
needed by middle-income people who
are unable to purchase a single-family
home.”

Shepley remembers arriving on Cape
Cod as a 19-year-old. His first rental
was a studio apartment in the rear of a
primary residence. “That’s the way you
did it in those days, but then we started
getting clever with zoning, saying you
can’t do this and you can’t do that,” he
says.

The Commission’s proposed bylaw
includes incentives to encourage towns
to lift restrictions on existing ADUs
and to allow construction of new units.
“They’ve removed the red tape,”
Northcross says. “I don’t expect every
town will adopt the bylaw, but I think
many will, and it will bring a kind of
housing onto the market that we need.”

Otherwise, Northcross warns, “The Cape
is going to become one, big national
park where people come for a few days
and then go home.”

HB&RACC • TINY HOMES

32 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

HB&RACC • TINY HOMES

O ver the years, the average square footage for new single-family homes has
steadily increased. According to the Census Bureau’s 2014 report on the
“Characteristics of New Housing,” the average size of a new single-family
house built in the United States in 2014 was 2,690 square feet. The average single-
family home built in 1974 was just 1,695 square feet. As the size of American
homes has increased over the decades, in more recent years, so has the interest in
tiny house living.

It seems as though everywhere you turn, there are magazines and TV shows devoted to the topic of tiny
houses. At 400 square feet or less, tiny houses have their appeal: smaller mortgage, less upkeep and
reduced energy needs equal more time and freedom for owners.

For the Cape, with land at a premium and housing options limited for year-round residents, tiny houses

are an intriguing proposition. For this reason, we asked three local firms to design a tiny house. While all

participants agreed that designing a tiny house was a fun and creative challenge, most made it a point to

note that tiny house living is certainly not for everyone. . 33
AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016

HB&RACC • TINY HOMES

Daniel Lewis PROJECT DETAILS
AIA, Architect
Total square footage: 400
Centerville and Northborough, MA Floors: Single
508-612-8771 Built-in cabinetry houses washer/dryer
Storage: and overhead storage; attic loft area over
DanielLewisArchitect.com bathroom provides additional storage.
Inspiration: Spaces were designed to be multi-
Daniel Lewis is an award-winning architect with more functional: bedroom doubles as an office;
than 30 years of experience designing and overseeing Amenities: table with adjustable height offers dining
space and kitchen prep area.
a wide range of projects, including residential, Cathedral ceilings
commercial and institutional work.

34 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

HB&RACC • TINY HOMES

What are your thoughts on the What was the hardest part of designing a tiny house?
tiny house movement? The biggest challenge in creating a fully functioning house
I think it’s fantastic that there is an increased awareness of the within the 400-square-foot parameter was ensuring that spaces
possibility of doing more with less, and this kind of reduced- and features are able to perform multiple duties. For instance,
impact living could work well for many; tiny house living is not in this design, the bedroom has a Murphy bed with a built-in
for everyone. However, once one finds that it’s possible to desk, which remains horizontal so items on the desk remain
live well in less than 400 square feet, the thought of living in a intact. Once the bed is folded into the wall, the bedroom
larger but still compact and more efficient home has some real turns into a very functional office space. Also, built-ins make
positives and potential. the most of the limited space. The kitchen is compact but
fully functional. Rather than a conventional range, it has a
For Cape Cod, what are some of the high-efficiency induction cooktop and a microwave-and-oven
pros and cons of building a tiny house? combination. The dining table can be counter height to expand
The biggest pro is the ability to build more affordable housing kitchen prep space or be lowered to table height for dining.
on smaller parcels of land. I really like the idea of modern Nesting chairs can also double as additional guest seating. A
cottage communities that mimic and expand on some of the 33” high washer/dryer combo allows for ample storage within
benefits of compact community living. Unfortunately, though, the built-in cabinet housing it. The living and bedroom areas
we have often created zoning that prevents us from creating have cathedral ceilings for enhanced spaciousness, but there
the kinds of communities people desire and can afford. is an attic loft over the bathroom for the split ductless HVAC
system, instant water heater and some additional storage.
Do you foresee any obstacles—architectural design,
permitting and local building bylaws, demand, difficulty What type of homeowner did you have in mind when
financing through traditional loans, etc.? designing the tiny home—a single young adult, young
There are many obstacles, but zoning constraints, land costs married couple, aging or retired seniors?
and land availability are key. Most zoning allows for one house I had all of these groups in mind. A well-designed house
on one lot, with requisite minimum lot area and frontage could accommodate any one of them. With a house this small,
requirements, which makes it cost prohibitive to build just one planning for furniture placement really is key. There is no room
tiny house on one lot. for wasted space, and enhanced functionality is key to living
well with less, no matter the demographic.

AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 35

HB&RACC • TINY HOMES

Siemasko What are your thoughts on
+ Verbridge the tiny house movement?
The tiny house movement reflects a shift in lifestyle
Leslie Schneeberger, AIA and and offers unlimited possibilities for creativity.
Katelyn Grooms, AIA The trend represents a desire for less. Living in a
small space means having minimal possessions and
Beverly and Chatham, MA forgoing the need for our homes to house all of our
508-348-5485 • svdesign.com activities. Workshops, home gyms, home theaters
and many other amenities, which are regularly found
Siemasko + Verbridge is an award-winning, full-service architecture, in our current houses, are difficult to accommodate
interior design, decorating and landscape design firm with locations in when the footprint becomes small. While a tiny
house may represent a less cluttered lifestyle, it
Beverly and Chatham, Mass. may also represent a revitalization of shared social
spaces for activities beyond the privacy of our
PROJECT DETAILS homes.

Total square footage: 400 With an unprecedented housing type comes the
Floors: Single floor with sleeping loft. opportunity for novel creativity. When space
Roll-out storage beneath day bed, built- is limited, each inch becomes more important.
Storage: in storage bench with coat hooks in Resources can and should be devoted to well-
main living area. planned spaces and elements, which would allow for
Inspiration: Close attention to detail and space flexible, optimal use.
guided the design for this year-round
Amenities: residence or vacation home that easily For Cape Cod, what are some
sleeps four. pros and cons of building a tiny house?
Boat deck, shower balcony and full Pros: The pros can be understood in both the low
fireplace. cost of ownership and the lightened impact on
resources, when compared to typical homes. The
tiny house represents a great way for a younger
generation to afford independent housing.
Considering Cape Cod’s high costs of building,
a tiny house’s economy of scale would allow for
many who typically can’t afford a home to build
and maintain a tangible custom home. Similarly, a
tiny house could be an excellent housing type for a
summer retreat. After all, isn’t it very much like the
cottage communities that were once so abundant
and popular for summer vacationers to Cape Cod?
For a vacationer who wants to get away from
everything for a short amount of time, a tiny house
could provide an ideal destination.

We all know that the popularity of Cape Cod is
having an impact on the Cape’s resources. It is a
painful irony that the beautiful, natural elements
that make Cape Cod so desirable are being
depleted by that attraction. Homes with a smaller
footprint will have less of an impact on resources.
Additionally, the smaller scale will allow for
construction in a shorter time frame and, in some
cases, at locations such as an off-site workshop,
which could mean less construction impact on the
surrounding site.

36 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

HB&RACC • TINY HOMES

Cons: Small homes could be difficult for the elderly or anyone
needing accommodations for accessibility. These designs require
space for ease of mobility and this is difficult to come by in a
limited footprint.

A tiny summerhouse or a home for retirees would have limited
space to accommodate guests. This limitation may be seen as a
pro to those of us who have found our entire summer slip into a
revolving door of friends and family eager for a bit of time on the
Cape. However, hosting those dear to us is a common discussion
point in so many new-home planning conversations.

Do you foresee any obstacles—architectural design, permitting
and local building bylaws, local demand, difficulty financing
through traditional loans, etc.?
Modern (code) requirements of space posed a challenge even
in the traditional, historic Cape, where people lived with smaller
space out of necessity; materials and other resources were always
limited. Elements that require a large amount of space, such as
stairs, will pose a challenge in tiny home design, but, if carefully
designed, can also double as storage and be interesting focal
points.

The long-term value of the homes would be difficult to determine.
Custom design—most typical for Cape Cod homes and most likely
for tiny homes—always poses a risk where resale to an unknown
future buyer is concerned. Many homeowners approach the design
of their house with resale in mind, and follow a general list of
recommendations for an unknown future homebuyer. However,
with the tiny house, there is no precedent for resale value or what
future tiny-home buyers would be looking for. With their limited
space, tiny homes are most useful if specifically designed for the
homeowner.

What was the hardest part of designing a tiny home?
The hardest part of designing a tiny home is also the challenge
that makes the tiny house so intriguing: details, details,
details! Sweating the small stuff is a requirement in tiny home
design—finding a place for everything and maximizing the
use of those places. Deliberate, careful and thoughtful
design is needed.

What type of homeowner did you have in
mind when designing the tiny house?
We envisioned a single person or young couple for
year-round, or a family of four for vacation use. The
loft area would be difficult for an older homeowner,
but could serve as a sleep space for two. The bunk
beds serve as flexible space for living, socializing

and sleeping for either guests or children. The home could
easily accommodate four and, depending on the design of the
pullout storage, could have a trundle for a fifth occupant.

AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 37

HB&RACC • TINY HOMES

What are your thoughts on the tiny house Cotuit Bay
movement? Design, LLC
I find the tiny house movement intriguing and
a change of pace from the typical larger house Steve Cook, founder and designer
designs of the past 30 years. There seems to be an Mashpee, MA • 508-274-1166
adjustment from having material things to having CotuitBayDesign.com
less, and the tiny house fits into this movement.
Tiny houses have been on Cape Cod for a Cotuit Bay Design is a building design firm that services Cape Cod
while, with all of the summer cottage colonies in and southeastern Massachusetts. From additions and historic
Yarmouth, Dennis, Eastham, Sandwich and the
well-documented ‘flower’ cottages in Truro. renovations to whole house, kitchen and bath remodels, Cotuit Bay
  Design is known for infusing designs with traditional, coastal New
For Cape Cod, what are some pros and cons of
building a tiny house? England elements.
The pros of owning a tiny house are energy
efficiency, lower maintenance and operating costs, PROJECT DETAILS
and their ability to fit into smaller available lots.
  Total square footage: 396
The cons of a tiny house are versatility—this size Floors: Double
home is not a fit for all family groups due to the Storage space under ship’s ladder
size constraints, especially for growing families, Storage: staircase; built-in cabinets and shelves
and the lack of space for larger family gatherings. on second floor; bulkhead provides
Inspiration: access to a crawlspace or full basement.
Do you foresee any obstacles—architectural Amenities: The “Boat Shop” building at the
design, permitting and local building bylaws, Osterville Historical Museum.
local demand, difficulty financing through Four skylights and a small, front patio.
traditional loans, etc.?
I find the obstacles for developing tiny homes
on Cape Cod are approval in historic districts
and meeting the building code requirements,
which include regulations governing such things
as minimum ceiling heights, door sizes and two
means of egress as well as HVAC requirements.
 
What was the hardest part of designing a tiny
home?
The hardest part for designing this style house
is meeting all of the client’s requirements and
expectations.
 
What type of homeowner did you have in mind
when designing the tiny house?
My ideal client would be a single person or a
young couple. This design can also be used for a
summer or weekend cottage. 

38 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

PHOTO: THEBEARWALK.COM HB&RACC

PHOTO: KATARAM STUDIOS Tiny Getaway

Not sure if tiny house living is for you? In 2014 Jon
Staff (Harvard Business School) and Pete Davis
(Harvard Law School) co-founded the Millenial
Lab, an action lab of Harvard Business, Law and
Design school students who are taking a fresh look
at housing, including alternative sources like tiny
homes.

Getaway, the lab’s first project, aims to grow the tiny
house movement by giving city dwellers the chance
to test out a tiny-house retreat. So far, the Boston
startup has designed—with the help of Harvard
Graduate School of Design students—and built three
micro vacation homes: The Ovida, The Lorraine and
The Clara.

All three retreats are located in a rural setting within
a two-hour drive of Boston, come fully stocked with
provisions and are available to rent at an affordable
cost (on average, $99/night). As a bonus, each stay
also has the potential to reframe how someone
thinks about housing and how it fits into their
lifestyle.

“So, a tiny house isn’t for you. Maybe a house that
is bigger, not too much bigger, but big enough to
fit just what you need and nothing more is right for
you,” says Getaway CEO Jon Staff. “Let’s all be more
conscious. Bigger isn’t always better.”

In Staff’s opinion, the growing popularity of the tiny
house movement reflects a cultural shift in priorities:
people want to live for experiences and not things
and products. “The key to happiness,” he opines, “is
to simplify and reduce, instead of having all these
obligations.”

And the idea is catching on, with people of all ages,
men and women, city folk and suburbanites alike.
Getaway, with its successful launch last summer,
already has plans to expand to other cities soon.

To book a Getaway trip, visit: www.getaway.house

AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 39

LANDSCAPE Green Industry Leader
A LOOK AT HOW THE CAPE COD LANDSCAPING ASSOCIATION
PRESIDENT IS SHAPING OUR LOCAL LANDSCAPE.
Bill Johnson
Coastal Equipment Driving along the Mid-Cape Highway in the summertime, it can seem like every other
pick-up truck is loaded with lawn tools and emblazoned with a landscaper-for-hire logo.
VICE PRESIDENT Whether you need your grass mowed or a full-blown backyard redesign, it’s tempting
Paula Marlowe to call a phone number you see on the vehicle ahead of you. But rather than a haphazard
Stonewood Products approach to choosing landscaping help, you’re far better off contacting the Cape Cod Landscape
Association.
TREASURER
Blair Jasie CCLA, founded more than 25 years ago, is a non-profit trade association serving the needs of
Blue Grass Irrigation individuals and businesses working in and involved with the Green Industry on Cape Cod and in
southeastern Massachusetts. The association, governed by a board of directors that is elected
SECRETARY annually, is devoted to providing its 200-plus members with the most useful information to help
Alex Moore them make decisions that directly affect their businesses and save them time and money.
Tim Acton Landscaping
Along with benefiting its members, CCLA has consumers’ best interests in mind. Executive
PAST PRESIDENT Director Diane Johnson, who joined the organization in 1999, points out that, first and foremost,
Dan Helman each member is insured. “We require proof of insurance when members join and then yearly
Cape Coastal Nursery after that with their membership renewal,” explains Johnson. “Many of our members are Mass.
Association of Landscape Professionals (MCLP)-certified, hold hoisting licenses, pesticide
BOARD OF DIRECTORS licenses, are certified in irrigation and more.”
Tim Badach
Coastal Equipment Rentals, Inc. Yearly, CLLA holds the Professional Educational Seminar (PES) and Trade Show at the Conference
Center of Cape Cod, which features a full day of education as well as more than 70 vendor booths
Ken MacPhee representing the Green Industry. Past keynote speakers have included Mike Sherman, former
Bartlett Tree Experts NFL head coach, Tom Curran of ESPN, Roger Cook of “This Old House,” Derek and Dean of DIY
Network’s “Indoors Out” and others. Classes include MCLP credits, pesticide credits, safety
Justin O’Connor credits and more. The PES will be held in March of 2017.
Town of Sandwich
Johnson says that lately she has been concentrating on growing membership and increasing the
Rob Kennedy awareness of CCLA on the Cape. Another aspect of her focus is to promote the industry as a good
EJ Jaxtimer – Landscape career choice. To this end, the organization’s communication with local schools has broadened,
Division with free membership in CCLA offered to students. Scholarship funds have increased over the
years as well. The annual Mike Stacy Golf Tournament raises scholarship money ($8,000 last
John Maher year) for Cape Cod students who are pursuing a career in the landscaping industry and for the
SiteOne Landscape Supply children of CCLA members who are enrolled in college. This year’s tournament will feature local
comedian John Terrio as host of the annual auction. In December, CCLA holds an annual meeting
Christopher Forance combined with a holiday celebration, where the new officers are inducted and the outgoing
Paramont Landscape and officers recognized.
Garden Center
CCLA monthly meetings are held the second Thursday of each month at varied locations and
Executive Director always include MCLP credits. All meetings open with a networking and social time, followed by
Diane Johnson an hour-long discussion of a topic relating to the Green Industry. Currently, CCLA is working on a
snow show for the November time frame, which will include several speakers and snow removal
Office Manager vendors.
Beth Morrison
To receive advance notice of CCLA events and meetings, sign up on their website,
How To Reach Us capecodlandscapes.org. The office is located in Hyannis at 407 North Street, Suite 7-B.
508-827- 4639 508-827-4639.
www.capecodlandscapes.org
[email protected]

40 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

LANDSCAPE • IRRIGATION

Irrigation

System Update

Conserve water while keeping
your yard healthy and green.

T he average American family uses 320 gallons of water per day, of which 30 percent is devoted to outdoor
uses, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. More than half that 30 percent is used
watering lawns and gardens, where as much as 50 percent of the water is wasted due to inefficient watering
methods and systems.

One way to conserve water is to hire a certified irrigation specialist to design and install a system that fits your
yard’s specific watering requirements. “The ultimate goal of the Irrigation Association and professional irrigation
contractors is to minimize water waste,” says Blair Jasie, owner of Blue Grass Irrigation, who has been in
business for close to three decades.

Water conservation is of particular concern during the summer months, when water usage on Cape Cod doubles
from 23 million gallons a day to more than 45 million gallons, according to Cape Cod’s Groundwater Guardian
team, an organization dedicated to protecting local water resources.

There are many factors that go into installing an irrigation system, says Jasie, including finding the right
products and materials that will provide the best watering solution for your yard.

AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 41

LANDSCAPE • IRRIGATION

DRIP IRRIGATION SPRINKLER IRRIGATION

Drip irrigation is a generic term for any type of irrigation that is Sprinkler irrigation systems have spray heads that come up out of
going specifically into the ground or to a particular plant. It is the ground and spray different patterns across a working area. There
ideally used in planting beds and areas where you have a high are different types of sprinkler heads to address particular watering
clearance (as with trees). For drip irrigation systems, coils of pipe needs. Fixed-pattern spray heads that stream water in an umbrella
are rolled out onto the surface of your yard and staked down. pattern cover a 10- to-15-foot radius. Designed to water areas in the
The piping contains emitters that dribble water directly into 15-to-22-foot range, rotary spray heads rotate while water shoots
the root system of plants, which conserves water by reducing out at varying distances in fingerlike patterns. For larger yards, there
evaporation and cutting down on water deflection that happens are gear-driven heads, where a single stream of water comes up out
when water from a sprinkler head sprays from above the plant. of the ground and rotates back and forth.
After installation, a layer of mulch is added to cover the area and
to help the soil retain more moisture. PRODUCT & PLACEMENT

MICRO IRRIGATION Deciding which irrigation system is best for your yard depends on
your watering needs. “Common sense dictates which [irrigation
“The biggest difference between drip and micro irrigation is that products] should be used and where,” says Jasie. “You don’t want to
with micro you are running pipe to an individual plant,” says install a head that shoots 25 to 30 feet on a side yard that is 15 feet
Jasie. “So if you had a bed with a bunch of different plantings and wide.”
trees you would stake out a dribbling nozzle into each individual
plant.” This allows for water to be directed very specifically, Homeowners, in addition to thinking about what irrigation product
addressing the individual watering needs of each plant, he says, would be most appropriate for their yard, should also think about
“as opposed to the drip irrigation, where it is going to irrigate proper placement. How big is the area you would like to cover?
the entire surface of the area.” Drip lines are more appropriate What are the watering needs of plant materials? Is the area sunny or
for densely planted areas and micro irrigation is better for beds shaded? Is the terrain flat, sloped or both? What type of soil do you
where plants are located farther apart. have? These are all questions that will help to guide what irrigation
product is best and where to install. Jasie uses this information to
separate landscapes into “zones” with similar watering needs. A
yard that is a quarter to a third acre typically requires four or five
zones.

TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES

Advances in technology have made conserving water and
monitoring and maintaining your irrigation system easier and
more efficient than ever before. “Rain sensors are a big part of
water conservation,” says Jasie. A rain sensor is a simple device
that measures soil moisture or rainfall, and when it hits a certain
moisture threshold it shuts off the entire irrigation system. Smart
irrigation is more complex than a rain sensor. “It is a mini weather
station for your yard,” Jasie explains, “and it will [measure] rainfall,
humidity, solar radiation, wind speed—everything that affects
how moisture is drawn from the ground.” That information is then
relayed to a controller, which will automatically adjust the irrigation
schedule. Cloud-based technology, although still not the norm but
gaining popularity, takes smart irrigation a step further and alerts
the consumer when there is a problem and allows for adjustments to
be made remotely from a smart phone.

An average irrigation system takes between one and three days to
install, says Jasie, “and with a properly installed system and quality
materials, you can plan on getting 15-plus years before you have any
large issues.”

42 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 43

TLARNENDDSCSA•POE U•TODUOTODROLOIVRINLIGVING

Outdoor Living Trends 2016

T he desire to create an outdoor living area where friends and family can gather is nothing new for
homeowners. “People want to entertain and be outside [around] their fire pits, patios and outdoor
kitchens,” says Peter Briggs, owner of Briggs Landscape Construction. It’s clear, outdoor living is not just
a passing trend. “As more and more people do it, more and more people want it,” says Sean Bishop, president
and co-owner of Ground Effects Landscaping.

12 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

LANDSCAPE R.K. Fox Builders / Paul Blackmore Photography

PHOTO: BARRIE COLLINS, MLA; LANDSCAPEOFUS.COM OUTDOOR ROOMS WHITE WOOD KITCHENS
Visit our showroom:
But outdoor living, like all trends over 160 Route 6A, Sandwich, MA
time, has evolved. “What used to be a 508-353-9183
patio area in a backyard has become a real www.whitewoodkitchen.com
functional area,” says Briggs. “People are
using outdoor spaces as rooms; just as WHITE WOOD KITCHENS by Gail O’Rourke
you would walk into a den in your home,
people want those types of rooms outside,” Exactly what a kitchen design company should be.
says Barbara Conolly, landscape designer
and owner of Gardens by Barbara Conolly. AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 13
With more outdoor products on the market
than ever before, Jason Hogan, marketing
director for Stonewood Products, quips:
“Your favorite room doesn’t have to be
indoors.”

EASY LIVING

For these “outdoor rooms,” the emphasis
is placed on low-maintenance products.
“Gas fire pits are convenient,” says Paula
Marlowe, outside sales representative for
Stonewood Products. “You hit the switch,
press the remote or push a button and
within minutes you are sitting in front of
a beautiful fire.” Gas fire pits have become
more affordable over the years as their
popularity has soared. Although pricier,
Marlowe says she is also seeing an upsurge
in the request for outdoor fireplaces and
pizza ovens. “Hybrid pizza ovens are the
latest and greatest thing,” says Marlowe,
because you are able to cook a pizza within
five minutes using gas or wood.

Knock Out® Roses

LOW-MAINTENANCE
PLANTINGS

Homeowners, in their quest for
convenience, are also taking a second
look at the types of plantings used to
beautify their outdoor spaces. “People
don’t have the time to take care of their
yards like they used to,” says Bishop, about
homeowners’ increased interest in low-
maintenance plants. “Instead of annuals,

LANDSCAPE • OUTDOOR LIVING

people are asking for perennials because they come back every year,” otherwise pollute our waterways. “You want to place [a rain garden]
says Bishop, who recommends daylilies and hostas for their ease of on your property where there is excellent filtration,” advises Conolly.
care. He notes dwarf varieties of plants are also lower maintenance,
requiring less pruning because of their slower growth. For those who OUTDOOR LIGHTING
love roses but don’t have a green thumb, Briggs suggests planting
Knock Out® Roses, a hearty hybrid that doesn’t require too much As interest in outdoor living spaces has risen, it’s no surprise that
pruning or fertilizer. “You plant it and clean out the dead [parts] once outdoor lighting has seen a surge as well. “People are spending more
a year, and it blooms all year for you,” says Briggs. “You have to work time and more money on their properties, so they can enjoy it and
really hard to kill this plant.” it only makes sense that they would put lighting in to enjoy it later
into the evening,” says John Maher, outside sales representative
for SiteOne Landscape Supply, a landscaping supply and outdoor
lighting distributor. “It is starting to become affordable enough
that the average person can purchase it,” says Maher. He sees
homeowners adding uplighting to specimen trees and installing
functional and security lighting to their hardscapes, walkways and
stairs for safety.

Maher has also witnessed a rapid rise in LED lighting sales. “LED
really became popular about three years ago,” he says, replacing the
old-style halogen lighting seemingly overnight. LED lighting lasts
close to a decade and uses less electricity, conserving energy, which
is the driving force behind the change, says Maher. “Everybody wants
to be ‘green.’ ”

Driven by the public’s increased environmental awareness and the Smart technology products are becoming more available too. One
ease of maintenance, native plantings are also having their day in of those “smart” products is the Luxor lighting control system by
the sun. “A lot of people are starting to do more homework on native FX Luminaire. With it, homeowners can apply zone lighting to their
plantings,” says Briggs, “which is a fantastic thing for us because yards, where each light fixture can be controlled individually or as
that is what we would rather use.” Native plants, once in the ground, a group. They can also dim and pre-set outdoor lights to come on at
are naturally low maintenance, don’t require a lot of water and can a certain time using an iOS or Android device. “Now if you have 30
survive on what Mother Nature provides, says Briggs, who regularly lights,” says Maher, “you can do 30 different things with those lights.”
uses plants such as viburnum, sweet pepperbush and highbush
blueberries in his landscape designs. While technology and trends may change over time, people will
always want to carve out a piece of their own paradise—even
CONSERVING RESOURCES outdoors. And nowadays, more often than not, people are looking for
outdoor living spaces that are low maintenance and convenient but
The increased interest in environmentally low-impact native also eco-friendly.
plantings is just one branch of a much larger tree: sustainability.
“People are looking for ways to conserve energy and protect the
environment,” says Barbara Conolly. One of the ways to reduce
energy consumption is through the strategic placement of plantings.
“Plants can play a great role in heating and cooling as well as
cost savings,” says Conolly. For example, a cluster of trees will
provide shade for your home in summer, reducing the need for air
conditioning, which conserves energy and saves on cost. Similarly,
you can use evergreens to shield your home from wind in fall and
winter.

Another way people are looking to conserve resources is through
water conservation, and rain gardens are a part of that, says Conolly.
A rain garden—stocked with hearty plantings that can withstand
significant amounts of moisture—acts like an aquifer, collecting
rainfall and storm water runoff. The soil soaks up the water runoff,
which feeds plants while filtering out contaminants that would

14 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD

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AT HOME ON CAPE COD / SPRING SUMMER 2016 . 15

PRODUCTS & SERVICES • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

BY REBECCA MAYER KNUTSEN

I magine sitting in the living room of your suburban New York City home, watching a
fall nor’easter blow up the coast on television. Your stress level starts to escalate as
you think about your family’s waterfront cottage on Cape Cod. Is the house prepared
for the storm? Did you put all of the deck furniture away? Is the forecast accurate?

For seasonal homeowners, it’s impossible to be in two places at once. Fortunately, property management
companies are waiting at the ready to check on a property both before and after a storm blows through.
Because custom homebuilders and remodelers are in a unique position to take care of the properties they
build and remodel, many have launched property management divisions within their longstanding Cape Cod
companies. “We establish relationships with the homeowners when we work on their homes,” explains Gary
John Souza, president of Rogers & Marney, Inc., an Osterville builder offering property management services
since the company’s establishment in 1968. “Whether it’s a kitchen remodel or small addition, they like us and
want to keep working with us.”
Property management companies excel at a wide range of services, from touching up paint in a homeowner’s
powder room to answering an alarm call at 3 a.m. during a windy snowstorm. These firms step in when the
client cannot be physically present.
48 . SPRING SUMMER 2016 / AT HOME ON CAPE COD