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.

  • One Kitchen, Two Islands: A Unique Idea for Your Fairfield County Home

    The kitchen has always been the heart of the home, and for obvious reasons. This is where we eat, drink and be merry! We probably all have fond memories of being in the kitchen as a child. The aroma of lasagna baking in the oven, or the sweet smell of fresh homemade apple pie –…

  • Stone Exteriors are Great for Your Fairfield County Home

    When you’re building a home, you have a multitude of choices for its exterior material. You want the home’s exterior to reflect your style and the overall design of the home. Have you considered a stone exterior? Stone exteriors have numerous advantages, including their: Appearance:  Stone is a beautiful building material and is available in…

  • Hot Firepits for Cold Days and Nights in Fairfield County

    A cold night often encourages homeowners to get cozy and curl up next to the fireplace to warm up and relax. Have you ever considered taking this rejuvenation outdoors? A firepit is a great way to upgrade your home’s exterior while warming up on a cold Connecticut day. A firepit will: Increase the use of…

  • Ideas for a Dreamy (and Organized) Walk-In Closet

    Picture it. You walk into your closet, turn on the light, and are greeted with a carefully planned and completely organized space. Every sweater, shoe, and suit has its own perfect spot and the closet is an oasis of calm. Fantasy? Maybe. Your future reality? Definitely. You can upgrade and organize your closet by: Creating…