Some Ideas to Consider …

  • Higher Light: Interior Transom Windows

    Transom windows are a lovely historical detail with an interesting history of practical purpose. Before the advent of air conditioning, transom windows were an innovative design feature that allowed for cross ventilation between rooms. Typically, transom windows could be opened and closed using a long metal rod. There were also styles that opened on a hinge sideways like a door, or from the top to the bottom with a lightweight chain that prevented the window from opening too far.

    881012a36a49ee9871ad41608e317081
    Image Credit: New American Colonial, Barnes Vanze Architects Inc.

    Once air conditioning became common in American homes, the ventilation function of transom windows was less necessary but they continued to hold appeal for other reasons. Their design is ideal for increasing the amount of natural light in interior halls, entryways and niches, especially in larger homes and buildings. Privacy and security are also a benefit since transom windows let light in while the door below remains securely locked.

    virginia1
    Image Credit: Katie Ridder, Country Portfolio

    One of the main attractions of transom windows continues to be their visual charm, particularly in some of the “fixed” versions, which do not open. Decorative versions are often fan shaped or semi circular and sometimes created with stained glass. Intricate stained glass transom windows were particularly popular during the Victorian period, while simpler versions prevailed in Craftsman homes.

    4fd650dc6c03
    Image Credit: Giannetti Home via decorpad.com

    At Country Club Homes, we stay in touch with the latest custom home design trends to share exciting new ideas with our clients. Contact us today at 203-762-0550 or visit us at countryclubhomesinc.com to learn more about our work.

  • The Studs of Construction: Understanding the Lumber in Your Home

    You’ve encountered the studs of construction before: You measure and mark the walls to hang a piece of artwork. The first nail goes in easy-breezy, the second one nearly jars the teeth out of your head as you pound it in. That’s a stud. Homes in Fairfield County and around the country are usually framed…

  • Adding a Sauna to Your Home is Great for Your Health

    An in-home sauna may seem like an unnecessary luxury, but in reality it can provide significant benefits to your health. A sauna’s heat works to sooth your nerve endings, relieve tension, reduce joint pain, and relax your muscles.  Spending time in a sauna also works to calm your body and relieve it of stress which promotes…

  • Create Cleverly Concealed Work Spaces in Your Home

    Have you discovered that you could benefit from additional workspaces in your home? Using creative built-in storage is an excellent way to create unique spaces designed specifically to meet your family’s needs. Contemporary Family Room by New York Architects & Designers Murdock Solon Architects via Houzz   Considering adding a: Homework center: Does your kids’ homework spill out across…

  • How to Tell if a Wall or Column is Load-Bearing

    Many homeowners seek to open up space in their home during a home renovation project by removing a wall. This can connect spaces and completely transform a home’s layout. Before a wall can be removed it must first be determined whether the wall is load-bearing. This can be determined by: Traditional Staircase by Wilton Design-Build Firms Country Club…