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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. Who uses the kitchen…

  • Glow With Happiness Over These Unique Lighting Ideas

    Any home design is made better by innovative and effective lighting. One of today’s hottest trends is to use fluorescence throughout a home’s design to cast a soft glow and create plenty of visual interest. Our favorite ways to add fluorescence include: Ambient lighting. You can use fluorescence in a variety of ways to enhance your home’s…

  • Don’t Get Slowed Down by Surprise Building Permits

    Home renovation projects are exciting. You get to design the home of your dreams and transform it into a truly personalized space. Before you jump into the renovation work it’s important to follow all permitting guidelines for your city or county. This will help ensure the work goes smoothly and you are in complete compliance. When…

  • How the Winners of Best in American Living Reflect Current Design Values

    The National Association of Home Builders recently recognized builders from across the country that stood out in innovation and home design trends. The award winning projects give us a glimpse into what is on the horizon for construction and remodeling trends. Common ideas represented in the honored projects include: Spa-like bathrooms Centered bathtubs, radiant floor…