Some Ideas to Consider …

  • Home Style of the Month: Second Empire

    The Second Empire style was most popular in the United States in the 1860s and 1870s, particularly in the Northeast and Midwest. In its time, the style was considered modern and fashionable, simultaneously favored in France and the United States by affluent homeowners.

     

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    OldHousonline – French Connection

    The style originated in France, where some French architects used the phrase “horror vacui” – the fear of unadorned surfaces – to describe the Second Empire style and its emphasis on heavy ornamentation. Second Empire homes became prominent in France during that country’s “second empire,” the reign of Napoleon (1852-1870).

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    Iron cresting on mansard roof

    A tall mansard roof with wrought iron cresting is the most prominent distinguishing feature of this style. The roof was considered both visually appealing and practical since it created a fully functional attic space.

    Appropriate for a style focus in October, Second Empire homes are often featured in Halloween imagery as the quintessential haunted house.

    • Elements of Second Empire Style
    • Mansard roof with decorative slate pattern
    • Cast iron decorative cresting at roof
    • Patterned tiles on roof
    • Segmented arched windows
    • Prominent arched doorway
    • One story porch
    • Tower

     

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    Credit: decorpad.com – Arched Doorways

    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.

  • Make it Crafty: A Custom Craft Room in Your Home

    Whether you’re creating paper pumpkins and bats for a Halloween party this weekend or daydreaming about crafting in a dedicated space throughout the year, here are some tips for creating the perfect craft room in your home. Plan Your Space: Your craft room should be designed to accommodate the tasks you will spend the most…

  • Green & Energy Efficient Building

    There are a myriad of decisions to make when deciding on “green” products and systems for your home. For some, it means taking advantage of everything out there, and making sure that the process has been coordinated to result in the best end product with the smallest footprint on our planet. For others, it may…

  • Sweet Dreams: Elements of a Restful Master Bedroom

    A bedroom that invites peaceful relaxation creates a better quality of life. A good night’s sleep promotes mental and physical health. Keep the following in mind when considering your bedroom remodel and sweet dreams will be yours!   Color: Warm earth tones such as coppers, creams and tans are best for creating a cozy atmosphere. Soft,…

  • Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: Powder Room Reflections

    In a small space like a powder room, the mirror makes a strong impression. This important design element is often the first thing and the last thing a visitor sees. The right mirror can make your powder room feel larger and establish a stylish focal point in the room.   Get creative and experiment with…