At Powell Construction, some projects grow into lasting partnerships that span decades — and the Cape Cod home is one of those special legacies.
When we first met the homeowners, we were inspired by their story and their vision for the future. Two long-time friends, both single and living independently, decided to pool their resources to remodel and expand the home one of them had owned for years—a charming 1940s Cape Cod. Their goal was to create a shared space where they could enjoy each other’s company and support one another as they grew older.
They loved the character and history of the house but recognized it needed updates to better suit their lifestyle and support aging in place. From the very beginning, their vision was clear: preserve the warmth and classic appeal of the home while making thoughtful improvements that would allow it to serve their needs for decades to come.
Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of working alongside them through multiple remodels and additions—each one marking a new chapter in the home’s story and bringing them closer to a space they can truly enjoy and feel comfortable in. Their passion for the home’s history and their trust in our craftsmanship have made this a truly special collaboration, and we are honored to be part of their journey.
able to stay in it,” says one of the homeowners.
First Steps: The Initial Primary Suite Addition
Our journey with the Cape Cod house started in 2001 with a primary suite and office addition. We connected the new addition to the existing family room, with an authentic “wing” and “ell or L-shape” addition. This design allowed for the addition to seamlessly blend with the original architecture of the home, keeping with historical proportions that you would find on Cape Cod homes. We paid expert attention to detail to match the scale, materials, and details of the historic home.
Expanding Again: A Space for Hobbies & Antiques
Later in 2004, Ruth & Dee returned to us having envisioned building a detached garage that they wanted to use as a workshop and hobby space for their annual antique sale. We designed and constructed a detached garage with a second-story shop that complemented the main house’s style as a Cape Cod cottage. This new building gave them a dedicated area for their passions and projects — all without disrupting the serene beauty of their property.
Building Dreams: The Kitchen Addition & Secondary Primary Suite Addition
We were honored to return for the final time and build another two creative, purposeful additions in 2008 — this time expanding the kitchen & adding on the secondary primary suite & building a new porch off the kitchen.
Transforming the heart of the home – the kitchen — we expanded and reimagined the space. The kitchen is full of timeless charm with white shaker cabinets and a pine butcherblock countertop, a testament that classic design never goes out of style. The covered porch just off the kitchen was a perfect design for year-round entertaining options.
In the secondary primary suite, we created a private sanctuary featuring a bedroom, bathroom, walk-in closet, and a lovely, light-filled sitting room. The primary bedroom features a gambrel vaulted ceiling and cozy fireplace. For aging in place, we designed the bathroom with a walk-in shower and soaking tub.
A Lasting Partnership
This Cape Cod house tells a bigger story than just beautiful craftsmanship — it’s about trust, collaboration, and a shared vision that has stood the test of time. Each project has strengthened our relationship with Ruth & Dee, who trusted us to treat their historic home with the care it deserves & help it evolve alongside them.
At Powell Construction, we believe every home has a story. This home’s journey shows how thoughtful remodeling can honor the past while embracing the future — and a reminder that when you remodel with heart, you’re not just creating spaces; you’re creating a legacy.
Thinking about your own home’s next chapter? Give us a call today at 541-752-0805. We’d love to help you build your legacy!