Some Ideas to Consider …

  • August New England Home Style of the Month: Italianate

    The Italianate architectural style began in England in the early 1800’s as a reaction to the formal architectural styles of the 1700’s. It was inspired by rural Italian farmhouses that featured classic masonry techniques, square towers, and informal details. This style spread to the United States by the 1830’s and was popular throughout our growing nation. It offered American architects more creative freedom than previous designs styles and was made most famous by the architectural work of Andrew Downing. He designed homes throughout the country and published several books specifically detailing the Italianate style.

    Victorian Spaces by South San Francisco General Contractors Dijeau Poage Construction via Houzz

    Elements of Italianate style homes include:

      • Wide cornices that project toward the front of the home featuring heavy brackets, decorative bands, and panel moldings.
      • Ornamented windows, doorways, and porches.
    Victorian Exterior by Houston Home Builders Whitestone Builders via Houzz
    • Brick or clapboard exteriors that feature detailed cast iron door and window hoods.
    • Low pitched roofs that often include a square cupola.
    • Curved and arched windows.
    • Large panes of glass included in the home’s front door.
    • Square post columns throughout the porch’s design.
    Mediterranean Exterior by Edina General Contractors John Kraemer & Sons via Houzz

    At Country Club Homes, we pride ourselves on keeping current with the hottest custom home design ideas. Contact us today to learn more about our work.

  • Small Details Can Make All the Difference in a Universal Design

    Universal design is the process of creating a home that works for all residents, regardless of ability or age. Many universal design homes are created specifically for homeowners that are in wheelchairs or have other physical needs, but universal design goes beyond adding ramps and making sure doorways are wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair….

  • A House Full of Secrets: Designing a Home With Hidden Passages for Convenience and Privacy

    If you love a good mystery you know that secret passageways are the epitome of suspense and intrigue. What is behind that door and through that hidden passage? Secret passageways can be built into your home to boost privacy and convenience. Our favorite passageway ideas include the: Bookshelf doorway. It may look like a wall full of…

  • Driftwood Architecture is a Gorgeous Way to Bring the Outdoors Into Your Home

    One of the most wonderful things about coastal living, aside from the stunning views, is the vast array of design ideas you can draw upon from the sea.  While common design features like ship motifs and seashells have to walk a fine line to avoid moving from tasteful to kitschy, one oceanic design element is…

  • Consider the Practical Beauty of Cedar Roofs

    Best known for their undeniable beauty, cedar roofs offer a host of other benefits to homeowners. They are incredibly durable, environmentally friendly, and stand up to even the worst weather conditions. If you’re considering installing a cedar roof as part of your construction project take the time to understand the material before you begin. Cedar roofs…