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.

  • 5 Important Questions to Ask Before Planning Your Dream Kitchen

    As you begin planning your custom kitchen remodeling project, it’s vital to stop and consider your specific needs. Since no two homeowners are the same no two remodeling projects are the same either. Asking yourself these questions will help you make important remodeling decisions and ensure your new kitchen meets your needs. 1. Who uses the…

  • Looking at Tile and Finish Options for Your Home? Consider These Trends

    The recent 2105 International Builders Show introduced builders to three hot new trends in home design that are perfect for those finishing details on a new home. These three trends were showcased for their innovative design quality and the ability to stand the test of time. Graphic patterns: Bold patterns in flooring stand out against classic design….

  • Spend Spring and Summer in Outdoor Retreats With All the Comforts of Home

    Your home may already have an outdoor living space, but have you ever considered adding a freestanding outdoor retreat? Outdoor retreats are one of the hottest home construction trends and provide all the comforts of home while allowing access to the beautiful outdoors. These retreats are typically positioned away from the house and often feature couches, lounge…

  • Springtime Maintenance Made Easy with TotalCare

    Now that spring is knocking at our doors, you might be thinking that it’s time for some much-needed springtime home maintenance. But you may not have the time. Country Club Homes offers a trouble-free solution to keep your beautiful house in immaculate shape — TotalCare.  TotalCare is a full service home management company that provides basic maintenance, emergency repairs, major…