Project Name: Fleeman Chateau

Location: Rogers, Arkansas, USA

Date Completed: June 2019

Architect: Bill Fleeman

Interior Designer: Chris Goddard, Goddard Design Group

Construction Company: Dynamic Development, Inc.

Custom designed and built by the owner, this French-inspired chateau presides over 300 acres and commands a spectacular view of a lush valley in Rogers, Arkansas.

Inspiration for the chateau home of Bill and Jeannie Fleeman materialized from their extensive travels to Paris and the countryside of France. Loving the Loire Valley, the Fleemans purchased a 300-acre site overlooking a lush valley in Rogers, Arkansas, and began planning their French-inspired compound. Unfortunately, during the construction process, Bill became ill and passed away after a two-year battle with cancer. Jeannie ultimately decided to finish the chateau in remembrance of her loving husband and selected Chris Goddard of Goddard Design Group to assist her with completion of the dream home the couple had envisioned.

Working closely together, Jeannie and Chris landed on a colour palette of warm neutrals, French green, and shades of blush. With the exterior of the house being so formal, the interior was designed to be elegant, yet comfortable but not in an “over-the-top” fashion. French antiques and furnishings were purchased, as well as acquisition of a large collection of Barbizon School oil paintings.

Artisans were commissioned to produce custom furnishings, bronze railing, plaster moulding, and murals created by a trompe l’oeil artist who was previously commissioned for Gianni Versace’s residences.

The two travelled extensively in the United States and abroad to locate the perfect fabrics, period furniture, and architectural pieces for every inch of the expansive home, as well as important outdoor statuary for the gardens. With a classic, curated interior and exterior design, Jeannie was able to honour the memory of her husband.

Chris’s favourite aspect of the project was the close relationship that was forged between himself and Jeannie. Most clients hire designers for a finite job and tend to stay within their comfort zone. In the case of Jeannie on the other hand, she was an active participant in the selection of all items and loved learning about new items and techniques.

Chris and Jeannie continue to update both the interior and exterior of the chateau. Their most current project is Jeannie’s vacation home located in the Cayman Islands.