A French chateau in Montana may sound out of place, but this exquisite custom home fits perfectly into the landscape and location near Bigfork Montana.

John and Red Merlette have traveled the world and even thought about making France their home when they retired. The love they have for the Flathead Valley and the friendliness of the Bigfork community eventually persuaded them to build their dream home in Montana. Finding the perfect real estate and builder to construct their home was essential. In their search they found the property of their dreams with breathtaking Swan mountain views and their own private lake. It made the canvas backdrop needed to create this artistic masterpiece with a French hunting lodge theme.

The Merlette's compiled volumes of design ideas for both their custom home design and building site before starting the building process. They obtained names of potential builders and then researched recommendations, conducted extensive builder interviews and looked at completed projects in order to find a designer and homebuilder who could work with them and bring their ideas to life. Landmark Builders was chosen and worked hand in hand with the Merlette's to help them fulfill their retirement dreams.

The architectural design research was extensive but the end product was worth it. Decorative trim, ornate moldings and ironwork adorn the residence. Authentic timber hammer trusses, arch top doors, stained glass entry doors and even a Juliet balcony are a few of the many intricate details custom designed and made for this luxury Montana home.

Landmark Builders specializes in designing and building exceptional luxury homes. This French Country home is only one of many architectural styles that have been used to create one-of-a-kind estates in the Flathead Valley.

This home is scheduled to be published in the 2009 spring issue of Timber Home Living.