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.

  • Tips When Hiring A Builder

    Whether a project is large or small, short-term or long, there are a few steps that should be taken before hiring your Builder. Investing a little extra time before the project starts can save you lots of headaches and expense down the road. There are five principle areas to look into before you make the…

  • 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…

  • Kitchen Cabinet Trends to Incorporate in Your New England Home

    Cabinetry is one of the most prominent parts of a kitchen and it should be designed with both form and function in mind. Your cabinets should look great while meeting all of your practical storage needs. Our favorite trends to incorporate in your New England kitchen include: Charging cabinets – Today’s homeowners likely have multiple mobile devices that…

  • You Can Expect More From Your Deck Design

    During the last two decades the residential deck has undergone an amazing transformation. What used to be a simple wooden structure has become an extension of a home’s living spaces, featuring elements such as outdoor kitchens, tiered levels, and exquisite decorating. At Country Club Homes we understand the evolving influence of deck design and always begin the…