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.

     

    second-empire-rhinebeck
    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).

    f63376fbd6a82ac6c5b4676a54281f2d
    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

     

    8a7cd28f493a
    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.

  • A Private Sauna Provides the Ultimate Home Getaway

    Whether you install a pre-made sauna or choose to have Country Club Homes create a custom sauna for you, this addition can help transform your home into a private retreat. When you add a sauna to your home there are several important factors to consider: Materials   Cedar is the classic choice for a sauna because…

  • Should You Move Out During Your Home Renovation?

    A home renovation project is a significant investment of both your time and money. It has the potential to upset your family’s daily life. Choosing whether to move out or stay during the renovation is a big decision. Make sure to consider: Source: Country Club Homes Purpose of the project   An addition to the back of your…

  • Preparing for Demolition: How to Handle Unexpected Issues

    As you would expect, the first stage of any remodel is to remove any unwanted materials so that the new ones can be installed. This demolition of a space can sometimes be aggravating, especially if an unexpected issue should arise. Still, with a little planning and preparation, the demolition stage can go smoothly. Here are…

  • Maintain a Healthy Relationship Throughout Your Remodel with These Tips

    Remodeling is a stressful process. The disruption of your regular habits, and the pressure to stay on-time and under budget can easily strain your relationships. However, there are things you can do to help make sure that your relationships remain healthy during your home’s remodeling project. Source:  Country Club Homes Work collaboratively. Differing design styles can be…