It might seem impossible to construct a 12,000-plus square-foot French country chateau with an intimate feel, but this creative St. Louis design team did just that. Situated in a posh setting just minutes from the city, the elegant property needed to complement the neighborhood context while meeting the design parameters established by the homeowners.

Homeowners Sandy and Dixie Deibel had admired a plot of land in the quiet city of Ladue for years; seven, in fact. The lot sat next to a lake with ample privacy, and it happened to be owned by their neighbors.

    Originally the Deibels weren’t looking to build a new home as it would be the fifth custom home they’d designed and built for themselves. However, the lot’s view, location and privacy were refreshing after the hustle and bustle of Clayton for 20 years. They decided to build another, more comfortable home to better match their lifestyle.