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.

  • July New England Home Style of the Month: Gothic Revival

    Gothic architecture rose to popularity from the 12th to the 16th centuries and was primarily used in European religious construction. 200 years later the rise of the gothic revival era signaled a shift in the design style to residential structures in both Europe and the United States. This architectural style was known for its asymmetry and…

  • How Bookworms Can Make Better Use of a Dining Room

    Many custom homes have well appointed dining rooms that feature a large table, plenty of seating, and an engaging design that stimulates conversation. But can the dining room be more? We challenge you to think outside of the box for your dining room design and consider transforming this space to reflect your personal style and your…

  • Keep the Space Under Your Stairs Performing for You

    If you’re searching for a bit more storage in your home you may want to consider putting the space under your stairs to work. This spot in the house may be the prime location to add shelving, cabinetry, or customized storage. Our favorite ways to use this space include: Adding open shelving- Open shelving can be added to…

  • Gorgeous Ideas for Adding Interior French Doors to Your Home

    One surefire way to add character to your home is to install interior French doors with custom glass treatments. These stately doors will open up a space by allowing plenty of light to flow between rooms. However, they can also pose a challenge when you’re wanting to ensure privacy in an office, bedroom, or bathroom. Our favorite ways to…