Meet the owners of Chateau de Lis, John and Chauncy Childs.
John is a serial entrepreneur who has successfully built several businesses and is currently engaged in real estate projects. The Chateau is largely his brainchild and passion – he personally designed the pool tilework, the front courtyard, future arboretum and church ruin, and many other aspects of the interior and landscaping of the Chateau.
Chauncy is a successful home educator of six children, a professional quilter, and life coach. She also enjoys gardening and hobby farming, and has worked with John to create the unique and stunning landscaping and interior spaces so many enjoy at the Chateau.
Their passion project can now be your enduring memory!
The Chateau de Lis began with a vision to build a home for the ages, where family and friends would gather for extended stays and where lasting memories could be made. To that end, only the finest craftsmanship and enduring materials and finishes were used over a 15 year period to construct their dream home on the 133-acre farm. Large-scale Connecticut Bluestone on the main floor lays the foundation of this classically styled home. Solid limestone forms the stairways, bannisters, fireplace and window surrounds. Heavy wooden beams, doors and gothic cabinetry almost overwhelm the eye. A stunning hand-painted, three-walled mural of the Columbia River Gorge graces the walls of the formal dining room with figures and hidden faces for the discerning eye to discover. Hand-carved, authentic European Gothic antiques grace the nooks and crannies of each room, and seven distinctive suites, each with it’s own period theme, beckon explorers of all ages. Seven acres of lush landscaping, dotted with pathways, follies and lakes call for a leisurely stroll at any time of year. A massive rock bridge leads visitors to the front motor court, where personally designed and intricately laid cobblestones form an interwoven pattern.
In addition to the Jr. Olympic-sized indoor pool and spa, a private 3-acre lake with two 40′ water slides, a zipline, and large Santa Maria grill make summer days a pleasure.