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 Every Chore Easier With These Luxury Built-in Features for Your Home

    We know you likely don’t love housework but a few luxury upgrades can make your most dreaded chores a breeze. If you are searching for custom home design ideas that will set your house apart these innovative upgrades may be just what you are looking for. Custom closet systems –  Many homeowners install custom closet systems to…

  • Homeowners are Remodeling More and More These Days

    It has happened three years in a row. Spending on owner-occupied homes exceeded single-family new-construction spending in 2011. Demand for remodeling services from companies such as Country Club Homes is growing. Country Club Homes has seen its remodeling business expand as a result of economic trends. The company was the 2011 HOBI Award recipient for Outstanding…

  • Hide Your Fridge With a Well-Planned Kitchen Design

    A hot trend in gourmet kitchens is to hide the refrigerator with well planned kitchen design. Yes, a refrigerator is an essential part of any kitchen but it doesn’t have to stick out like a sore thumb. If you are considering a custom kitchen remodeling project you may want to investigate ways you can hide…

  • The Details That Finish a Perfect Design for Curb Appeal

    When you’re planning your custom home, you should never overlook the importance of curb appeal. Curb appeal provides the first impression to your home and offers a welcoming exterior to friends and family.  Paying attention to the small details is the perfect way to ensure your home boasts excellent curb appeal. Our favorite tips for creating amazing curb…