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.

  • What Architecture Can Do for Mental Health for Urban Residents

    Did you know that urban living can affect a resident’s mental health? Even those that love big city life acknowledge that an urban existence can cause stress. The lack of outdoor spaces and the high density existence can cause strain on residents. Contemporary Living Room by Other Metro Media & Bloggers Adrienne DeRosa Architects, however,…

  • Inspiring Fireplace Ideas to Warm Up Your New Home This Winter

    We all love a fireplace, right? The crackling fire, the undeniable warmth, and the opportunity to create interesting architecture all make fireplaces a highly sought after home detail. Regardless of your home’s style a fireplace is an excellent addition to your custom home. There are a lot of styles to consider but our favorite fireplace…

  • Bring Touches of the Italian Renaissance to Your Traditional New England Home

    The classic Italianate home design style weaves elements of the Italian Renaissance into modern homes and features exterior elements that make homes stand out. Elements of this design style can also be integrated into a traditional New England home to reflect your personal style and enhance your home’s best features. The most classic Italianate architectural…

  • Be Inspired by These Covered Bridges When Planning Features for Your New Home

    There may be nothing more classically American than covered bridges. These bridges dot the country and will instantly transport a traveler back to a simpler time in our country’s history. Many covered bridges have been restored and are painstakingly cared for to preserve our heritage and the beauty of the structures. Rustic Spaces by Breckenridge Architects…