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.

  • Never Be Afraid to Ask Questions When Remodeling Your Home

    A remodeling project can be a complicated process. There are many decisions to be made and a schedule of work to follow. As you begin the home remodeling process, make sure to ask your builder any questions you may have. Many of our clients ask: How long? How much? Staying in close communication with your construction team can help…

  • Open the Door to These New Trends

    When you’re planning your custom home there are a lot of decisions that must be made to ensure the design is cohesive and aligns with your personal style. For many homeowners the selection of both interior and exterior doors seems simple. But in reality, you can significantly enhance the look of your home with unique and…

  • Choose Your Ideal Countertop With a Helpful Quiz from Houzz

    When you are undertaking a custom kitchen remodeling project there are many different decisions that must be made, including which type of countertop to install. There are a wide variety of options to choose from and knowing which one is best may be difficult. Never fear though! Our friends at Houzz, an online idea book and resource…

  • No Matter Your Design Preferences, Make Sure Your Home is Functional First

    When designing a custom home it’s easy to get wrapped up in the creative options for decorating and expressing your personal style. But first, we recommend you assess and address the home’s function and your specific needs to ensure it’s the perfect fit for your family. Stick to the plan- It’s essential to have a plan for your…