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.

  • Lush Garden Features for New England Homes

    As warmer weather and longer days head our way we can anticipate more time relaxing in our New England gardens. To fully enjoy your space, give special attention to your garden design this season with new features that nurture the natural beauty of the outdoors. A fountain is a classic and serene focal point for…

  • Vessel Sinks Make a Splash in Luxurious Bathrooms

    While today they are seen as an ultra-modern addition to your bathroom, vessel sinks are actually based on the centuries-old washbasin design in use before running water was commonly available. There’s nothing like a vessel sink to make a dramatic impression in your bathroom.

  • Home Style of the Month: Cape Cod

    The quintessential American home, the Cape Cod style communicates what most of us think of when we envision a row of homes in small town U.S.A. with front yards and white picket fences. The style actually came over from England with the first settlers who modified the design of their homeland’s modest thatched cottages to…

  • Daydream About Relaxing Porch Style

    Naturally conjuring a feeling of welcoming ease and comfortable leisure, a front porch connects your indoor space with your outdoor space, expanding your home for entertaining and relaxing. When you’re planning a front porch design, imagine ways you will use the space, during which seasons of the year, and how the design will integrate with…