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.

  • Planning More Sustainable Features in Your Home Design is a Smart Investment

    Some homeowners believe that investing in sustainable home features costs too much money, that the up front costs will outweigh any benefits. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Yes, choosing sustainable features up front may cost more in the beginning but the return on your investment will last for years to come. Choosing sustainability…

  • Incredible Screens to Let You Enjoy Privacy and Light From Your Windows

    Creating privacy can be the antithesis of letting light in. How can you make your space private without blocking the light? Are there ways you can create privacy without limiting the view? Today’s design landscape offers creative solutions that solve privacy concerns while still letting in the light. Our favorite creative screen designs include: Operable…

  • Make Your Bedroom Feel Like a Vacation With Resort Inspiration

    Wouldn’t it be nice to feel like you’re on vacation without even having to leave your home? At Country Club Homes, we want to help you make that dream a reality. We’ll help you use these home remodeling ideas to create a luxury bedroom that feels like a resort. High-end fabric helps give your room…

  • Love Music? Include a Room Specifically Designed for Playing It

    Whether you’re a casual musician or a professional instrumentalist, you know that the right space can make creating music even more enjoyable. There’s something about playing in a room with the perfect shape and acoustics that really speaks to the soul and allows you to identify with your music. If you’re in the process of…