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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.

  • Construction Prices Continue to Rise as the Demand for New Construction Expands

    While the real estate market is still somewhat mired in a recession, there are definite signs of life. Over the last 22 months, housing builds have slowly crept upward every month. This means that the materials and, more importantly, the skilled labor needed to build these homes has become increasingly less available. As with any…

  • Follow These Tips for Choosing the Right Light Bulbs for Your Home

    You have several light bulb options for your home. Home lighting can be highly customizable, and the perfect bulbs can help you save money over time. But choosing the right light bulbs can be a challenge. Do you know your options? Here are your choices: Incandescent: The standard in American homes for over 100 years. They…

  • Add a Bedroom Walkout to Your Master Suite

    While having a fabulous master bedroom can be luxurious all by itself, adding its own access to an outdoor retreat can enhance the space. We think that adding a doorway leading out to a private, fantastic view can add value and personality to a home. Having an escape directly connecting to the bedroom is unexpected…

  • Choose the Right Fireplace Material to Make a Statement in Your Home

    A fireplace is a must in most New England homes. It provides warmth in the winter, serves as a design focal point and can anchor a room. Choosing the right material for the fireplace in your home is essential to ensure it matches both the home’s architecture and your personal design style. There are many…