Some Ideas to Consider …

  • Building Up: Add an Additional Story to Your Home or Guest House

    Two-Story Home by Country Club Homes
    Source: Country Club Homes

    When investigating home remodeling ideas, you may have realized that adding an additional story is a great way to increase square footage. There are important structural and design considerations to make when adding a second story to your home. Before work begins, talk to your contractor about:

    • Design cohesion. A second story addition should look like it was always there; it shouldn’t look like an add-on that doesn’t match the original structure. Spend time with your designer and contractor to make sure the addition is cohesive with the original home.

      Two-Story Living Room
      Source: Country Club Homes
    • Structural requirements. Adding a second story will add significant weight to the home. Work with your contractor to determine what structural upgrades your main floor’s walls and your foundation need to support the extra weight.
    • Mechanical upgrades. The addition will likely require mechanical upgrades, including HVAC systems, electrical panels, and water tanks. Plan for these upgrades and invest in systems that are large enough for the entire structure.
    • Septic or Sewage System.  If additonal bedrooms are added, make sure your septic or sewage system is efficient and up to code.

    An addition is a big project that can transform your house into your dream home. Contact us at Country Club Homes, Inc. at 203-762-0550 or visit us at www.countryclubhomesinc.com to learn more about the details of a home renovation project.

  • 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…