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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.

  • Is an Attic Bedroom Right For Your Home?

    Many homeowners, in the quest to find more room for their family, turn to the otherwise ignored attic. It’s not a bad idea as the space is already available, can be insulated easily and makes for a private yet accessible bedroom. Here are a few things to know when considering an attic bedroom renovation. Source: Country Club…

  • Save Money on Your Heating and Cooling with Emme

    There are many factors that go into building an energy-efficient home, and one of the most important decisions is the choice of heating and cooling equipment. Programmable thermostats, controllable ducts and other innovations have revolutionized climate control.  In particular, the use of zone-controlled systems, like those manufactured by Emme, can save you up to 40% on…

  • Stay Warm and Cozy This Winter with Heated Floors

    Heated floors are such a fabulous addition to any home, especially now that winter is fast approaching. The two most popular methods of installation are electric radiant heat and hydronic heat. Here are some ways to distinguish between these two methods: Electric Radiant Heat This is a less expensive and easier to install version, in…

  • Highlight Your Mantel with Beautiful Holiday Decor

    Fireplace mantels are so versatile. They can easily become a room’s focal point or quietly blend into the surrounding environment. And now that our thoughts have turned to holiday decorating ideas, why not let your fireplace mantel take center stage? A gorgeous mantle constructed from a rough hewn log looks fabulous when topped with natural decorating elements. Arrange white…