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.

  • The Draw of Beautiful Solid Hardwood Floors

    No other element of a house exudes warmth and traditional style quite like a hardwood floor. Just entering a room with a rich, earth-toned foundation is enough to make you feel at home, isn’t it? But like many elements in home design, the looks are just the beginning. Hardwood floors have become the preferred option…

  • Make the Most of Your Porch This Spring in Fairfield County

    We are so overdue for some pleasant warm weather here in New England, don’t you think? And there’s no better way to enjoy those beautiful days outside than relaxing on your porch… perhaps with a great book and a steamy cup of whatever your heart desires. A front porch can add lots of curb appeal…

  • Have a Seat… in the Bedroom?

    What is it about seating in the bedroom that gives it an air of elegance? Perhaps because benches, chairs, chaises, sofas and love seats are so often seen in common living areas that it automatically becomes a visual interest when seen in a different type of space. Because a dedicated seating area in the bedroom…

  • Add Charm in the Kitchen with a Farmhouse Sink

    Farmhouse sinks, also referred to as apron sinks, are a great choice for kitchen design that’s one part country, but still completely traditional. While some may think that these sinks are outdated and completely old-fashioned, what really determines the look and feel of a farmhouse sink is what’s surrounding it. With the right backsplash, faucet,…