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.

  • Tradition or Transition in the Kitchen: What Does It Look Like?

    If you’re considering home design ideas for an upcoming remodel, or if you’re tinkering with the idea of building a home from the ground up, we at Country Club Homes, Inc. think you should consider a transitional style when it comes to your new kitchen.  Whether you’re a gourmet chef or not, there are lots…

  • Pretty Up Your Fairfield County Powder Room

    The powder room is typically the smallest room in the house. But don’t be fooled – it can still pack a powerful punch! With careful selection of a great sink, mirror, faucet and maybe a wall covering, your powder room could potentially be one of the best spaces in your entire home. Besides looking pretty,…

  • The Makings of a Perfect Home Office

    You may have come to realize over this past tax season that a dedicated and organized home office space is a must. Now more than ever, people are telecommuting, working from home and even starting up businesses in their living rooms. This is exactly why a home office is necessary. In order to be a…

  • What Can a Butler’s Pantry Do for You?

    The onset of spring and summer brings more guests into your home, which means you’ll be spending more time in the kitchen preparing those traditional summer goodies: fruit salad, burgers, hot dogs and lemonade. But in order to perform as a great host and chef, you must have ample room to do your job. While…