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.

  • Enjoy the Quiet and Comfort of Upholstered Walls in Your Custom Home

    Upholstered walls can add beauty, visual interest, and quiet to any room. Although they may seem extravagant they are a great way to set your home’s design apart. Upholstered walls will work in any room, are incredibly versatile in their design, and provide a touch of luxury. Traditional Kids by Newport Beach Interior Designers &…

  • Consider an Efficient Gas Fireplace When Planning Your Dream Home

    The cold Connecticut winter is upon us and many homeowners are already enjoying the beauty and comfort of their home’s fireplace. Although wood burning fireplaces provide exceptional ambiance, they can also be a hassle. A gas fireplace is an excellent way to enjoy the beauty and warmth of a fire without all of the work. A…

  • Turn Your Attic Into a Holiday Storage Dream Space

    Many homeowners face a common challenge of having enough storage space for all of their holiday decorations. The decorations look great during the holiday season but then you have to find a place to store them the rest of the year. Transforming your attic space into storage for holiday decorations may be just the solution…

  • The Psychological Reasons We Appreciate Symmetry

    It’s no secret that we’re naturally drawn to a room designed with symmetry in mind. The balance speaks to us and makes the room feel harmonious. But did you know that there are deep psychological reasons our brains are drawn to symmetrical designs? We are drawn to symmetrical designs because they: Feel Natural: Symmetrical designs feel…