Some Ideas to Consider …

  • Tips for Building a Classy, Eco-Friendly Driveway

    Did you know that traditional asphalt or concrete driveways increase the amount of stormwater runoff that ends up in nearby rivers and lakes? As this runoff is carried away, it picks up traces of pollutants, such as pesticides and petroleum. You can help curb this potential pollution of rivers and lakes by installing a green driveway that promotes groundwater recharge.
    eco friendly driveways
    Contemporary Landscape by Pipersville Landscape Architects & Designers Landscape Plus, LLC via Houzz
    There are a variety of options for green driveways, including:

    • Gravel. A gravel driveway is a natural option for an eco-friendly driveway. Gravel is permeable, helps prevent rainwater run off, and is easy to maintain in warmer climates that don’t require much snow removal.
    • Open-cell pavers. A driveway composed of concrete pavers with spaces between them aids in groundwater recharge by providing opportunity for rainwater to seep back into the ground. The spaces also add a little green to the driveway area.
    • Pervious pavers. A pervious paver driveway is installed much like an open-cell driveway. However, instead of open space between pavers the joins are filled with aggregate that aids in groundwater recharge.

    eco friendly driveways
    Farmhouse Exterior by Evanston Landscape Architects & Designers Kettelkamp & Kettelkamp via Houzz
    Country Club Homes offers many green home building solutions and options. Contact us online today to learn how to make your custom home more environmentally friendly.  Call us at 203-762-0550 or visit our website.

  • Higher Light: Interior Transom Windows

    Transom windows are a lovely historical detail with an interesting history of practical purpose. Before the advent of air conditioning, transom windows were an innovative design feature that allowed for cross ventilation between rooms. Typically, transom windows could be opened and closed using a long metal rod. There were also styles that opened on a…

  • Chic Simplicity: A Black and White Bathroom

    The black and white bathroom is a design classic that always feels fresh. The simplicity of black and white allows for endless experimentation with color and texture to make your space feel distinct and memorable. The walls in a black and white bathroom are an interesting place to explore the use of patterned wallpaper, particularly…

  • Hot Ideas for the Hearth: Custom Fireplace Designs

    As autumn settles in, the age-old custom of gathering around a glowing fire becomes ever more appealing. The fireplace in your home can be a conversational centerpiece with the right application of design skill and imagination. Your fireplace should reflect the overall look and feel of your home, whether traditional, modern, or somewhere in between….

  • Empty-Nesters Purchase Cottage with Downsizing In Mind

    Interested in downsizing? A soon-to-be empty nester couple fell in love with this delightful cottage and purchased the home with downsizing in mind. As the renovation project started, it turned into a labor of love for the couple as they envisioned it as their beach-style retirement home. The small corner lot on Belle Island in the Rowayton section…