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.

  • 10 Expert Steps to Preparing for Your Home Remodel or Renovation

      Updating your home with a remodel or renovation is a thrilling process full of possibilities, but it can also be very stressful.  It’s a big undertaking for any homeowner, and good preparation goes a long way toward ensuring that your home improvements go smoothly from start to finish.  Use these 10 expert steps to…

  • Do Home Buyers Still Prefer Suburban Living?

    Suburban living in planned residential communities, a trend that started back in the 1960’s and 1970’s, continues to be popular  even half a century later. In fact, these communities have enjoyed their strongest sales this year since 2007. But why? Home buyers equate these suburban neighborhoods to quality living. The homes are affordable and provide…

  • Create More Drama Outside Your Home with Landscape Lighting

    Highlighting a garden, pathway, entry and outdoor entertainment area with creative lighting is a fast way to add elegance and drama to your landscape.  Artfully arranged exterior lighting will call attention to your pool, patio, and unique landscaped elements, turning your home’s exterior into a striking high contrast composition every night. Lighting can be bright…

  • Spring Time Pruning for Your Fairfield County Landscape

    Fairfield County homes look their best with great looking landscaping that is maintained and pruned regularly. Spring is usually the best time to prune plants, but knowing exactly when to trim is key to a healthy blooming plant. We suggest the removal of all dead or damaged stems from plants as soon as you see them. Dead…