WORSE THAN WE THOUGHT: The Shocking Cost of Saving the Chapel!

Today I reveal the quote that we've received to restore Lalande's hauntingly beautiful Chapel of Saint Joseph. In order to save the chapel, we're facing a daunting and insanely expensive challenge...
The Chateau Diaries Episode 389 ✨🏰✨
Escape to the chateau with 'The Chateau Diaries' 🏰
This channel follows the adventures of chatelaine Stephanie in her French 16th century home, the Chateau de Lalande, in the heart of rural France ❤️
We share our life in this ancient chateau in the heart of the French countryside, and show you the diy, renovations, crafts, cooking and gardening that are needed to bring a home like this to life!
A very special thank you to all of you who have become Patrons of the Chateau de Lalande. You have made The Chateau Diaries one of the top 400 Patreon accounts in the world, and have transformed not only our lives here, but the future of this beautiful chateau! I'm overwhelmed by your kindness and generosity. On behalf of this beautiful chateau that will continue to survive and flourish because of you, thank you!!!
If you're interested in becoming a Patron of The Chateau Diaries, click here: / thechateaudiaries

[@louiserobinson8363]

As a manager for many not for profits charities I have some tips for getting things done 1. Check if the French government has grants for historical restorations 2. Check international bodies for grants for historical restorations, 3. Partner with a university that teaches restorations and offer maybe free accommodation in winter months so they can do a term of work for their curricular. 4. Host a restoration markets or music event as a fundraiser. Good luck

[@CBEEBLE]

There is the Fondation du Patrimoine, which can provide up to 40% of the costs.

[@michaelsmithers4900]

I was having the same thought as number 3 above. Develop or partner with a resident program through a university to bring artisans in training out to do the restoration…

[@KittyPieJaja]

What great ideas!

[@L8-4A-D8]

Those are such great ideas! I hope Stephanie sees this and might be able to get some assistance :)

[@garnetj69]

Those are really great ideas. Could I suggest,if you haven't already, that you send these directly to their email, I believe there is a link below. If not, they have a website.

[@AlexDunbar-ig1bz]

On Billy Petherick's channel, he had a friend come in with special camera equipment which constructed a 3D virtual model of the convent's chapel by taking hundreds of photos and stitching them together. This is an updated approach to what Andrew Tallon did by laser scanning the Cathedral of Notre Dame in 2010, data which has greatly aided the reconstruction after the tragic fire. Perhaps he can ask his friend to do the same for your chapel. If any elements of the vault need to be removed (or experience "rapid unplanned disassembly"), the model would help you decide how best to restore them and provide the necessary dimensions. That will also make the process much safer than having to get things fitted purely in situ. Best wishes for a brilliant restoration.

[@ScaseFacetime]

Brilliant comment!❤ I hope this happens😊

[@tarafoley6030]

Alex Dunbar ... You've read my mind ...

[@shaunsworld430]

Totally agree with this comment!!!! You could also start a gofundme just for the chapel, this could bring in funding from viewers, local people and dare I say people of a religious background… Also with events exclusively held for the chapel fund “ an open air operatic event”…. If your seen to be funding the first phase and then being part of any events, this could also be seen as reason to support the funding!!!! For this to work you need to place one person and I mean ONE PERSON in charge of all of this, to get it done…..

[@joanwalker9809]

Pavleena’s flower arrangements are perhaps the most beautifully artful arrangements I have ever seen. I believe they are a reflection of her beautiful heart and soul. Exquisite! (I am sorry if I have misspelled your beautiful name). So wonderful to see Ammery and his parents working together like a well choreographed dance. No toe stomping in that family! A pleasure as always to see all the talent at Leland. When is your amazing chef producing her cookbook, eh? 😊. Love to all!

[@catgray1]

Saw that episode. 👍

[@user-tt5xj5ib1e]

I think there’s also some donor fatigue involved in asking for an additional 430K euro to fix up the chapel. Some things you can do: - Apply for French heritage grants for the chapel. It be nominal but will assist. There are several regional and national grant programs which can be applied for. - Purchase the scaffolding which can be used for the chapel restoration and rendering of the main house mitigating rental costs which can be rented to contractors in the future when not in use. - Fix the main structural defects on the chapel. The artwork can be done incrementally. - Fix the structural beam in the main house and structural problems on floors above. - Finalise the two half-finished apartments (natty and scot man) which will provide additional revenue for the next season. If you prioritise the structural problems in both the house and the chapel, plus finish the half-completed apartments you’re finally getting somewhere.

[@nextinstitute7824]

I'm quite sure they are already using all available grants, although it is never mentioned.

[@ldnwholesale8552]

And share the scaffolding costs with Dan. He needs it worse!!

[@Burbankelly]

I’m a Realtor and when Stephanie was talking about the damage to the Chapel it made me think about the lake being drained. The release of pressure on the land, over time, could be what caused the two buildings to shift. Here in the states, that would be a strong law suit against the folks who made her drain the lake. Terrible they did this to her! (This also makes me wonder if the lake should not be restored before the restorations of both buildings - probably not. 🤔)

[@hisnewlife3543]

I agree. I had the same issue with my Victorian house. Foundation will be the problem.

[@Burbankelly]

@@hisnewlife3543 Yes, that’s what I was thinking, the foundation moved over time with the release of water pressure on the land. Plus, the two buildings are on a hill without a retaining wall so the lake and hill acted as a retaining wall, so to speak. I’m sorry that happened to you! Did you drain a lake too?

[@ladylibertywdc8324]

No litigious motive in France- that ship has sailed re that issue.

[@joseeallyn9950]

Very interesting!

[@MidnightVisions]

in a previous episode it was shown rain drainage undermined a pillar by the chapel's right side near the sacristy, this is the cause of the structure becoming lopsided, and causing the keystone to become dislodged. If the roof keystone falls, the ceiling will collapse. Concrete needs to be injected under the chapel structural walls to fill the water cavity areas.

[@Rosarium2007]

Peacocks are a traditional symbol of the Resurrection. So nice to see them when you are talking about restoring the Chapel.

[@Fubs_the_queen]

As someone in the art world with a lot of friends in Historic Preservation, and who lives in a 200 year old house on very wet ground, I would say the foundation and damp are the most pressing issues. The lake being drained likely has a part, so fill the lake ASAP, secure the chapel foundation, and place at least two industrial dehumidifiers in the chapel. These are going to be the most cost effective measures that can be taken. The rest is completely cosmetic, and there is beauty in disrepair (wabi sabi, anyone?). The chateau foundation requires the most attention because it’s your business and the grand salon is the project everyone wants to see (not that we don’t love all of the other content you put out). Remember, you’ve fulfilled your promise to the family you purchased from. You don’t owe them anything, as they should have done it if it upset them so much.

[@susandelongis885]

I wonder if, after the structural work, you could restore only the ceiling. Then, clean and preserve the rest as it is? I think it would still be gorgeous and actually more authentic than trying to bring it back to the original. What an exquisite place it would be for a wedding. I often remember to pray to St Joseph for your chapel when I see your videos. I deeply admire your commitment to such a sacred place. God has placed His little house into your loving care.

[@sheilaghk6350]

Mummy and Percy got married in it.

[@crae3422]

If I remember correctly, the permit for the lake is good for ten years. It can wait. If redoing the facade of the Chateau is not needed for structural reasons, that too can wait. The Chateau's and Chapel's structural issues can not. Those must be done first for obvious reasons, including getting the Grand Salon sorted. That puts two bedrooms back in use for the B&B. More bedrooms, more guests, more income. You have been saving Lalande from ruin since you purchased it. This is a continuation. As far as the interior painting of the Chapel is concerned I have mixed responses. If it is indeed a premier example of France's Neo Gothic Architecture as the experts working on Notre Dame de Paris said, then France should have an interest in helping preserve it. Can your local and regional French officials help? I tend to agree with others who have said to stabalize the plaster in order to keep it and its paintings on the wall. If the structural work does as intended and stops the damp that has caused so much damage, the rest can wait. As much as I love the play of light on what remains of the gilt on the Chapel walls, that can wait a very long time. Like the lake, It's a luxury at this point and the foreseeable future. Finishing the heating and making the structural repairs have to be the focus. The rest will fall into place in their own time.

[@skdoremi6666]

France is a Republic not a kingdom so the government will not pay for any preservation for any private property....notre dame de Paris is a public space and that's the reason the government is restoring it. If there r so many properties in France that r ruins its because the government will make u pay for it preservation if u buy it, chateaux in France cost a lot to restore and preserve them if it listed.....most of the people avoid it because u r also taxed....u have to make money a lot of money to be able to restore an old building.....as beautiful as the Chapel is its not listed so if it is destroyed the government wouldn't care and if it's listed they will force her to restore it with her own money so she is lucky somehow they aren't interested on her chateau or Chapel. Most of villages organise donations to preserve their Chapels....if the prefecture is rich and make money out of tourism they will help u but most of them don't really invest on restoring churches cause the churches receive donations anyway from the public....its the decline of religion that made it difficult to preserve them today.

[@tarafoley6030]

C. Rae Perfectly said !

[@vautierchristophe]

The best thing to do to save a such chapel is to start the process to apply to make listed by the government as ISMH (inventaire supplémentaire des monuments historiques) building. After that it's possible to get some subvention from the government, Region, departmentment, and sometimes from the EU too. I think the help of a parlement member could help to have a fast listing. I think the chapel is an great exemple of the Neo Gothic style and it worth to be listed.

[@vautierchristophe]

A well known person in France for his mission to save the French Patrimony is Stéphane Bern. He received a mission from the French President to work about the restauration of the French Patrimony. Maybe he could Lalande.

[@alexianedidrick251]

We have thousands of churches and chapels that are absolutely beautiful in France. There's not enough money to take care of all of them. Same for castles. That's why we rely on amazing initiatives like Stephanie's to keep these part of our history alive

[@astokes4241]

I do hope Pavlina can continue doing the flowers after Marie is back. She does such a beautiful job.

[@crae3422]

Agree completely.

[@nicolethijs5428]

I hope they can colaborate!

[@Sgirl]

​@@nicolethijs5428 I like Marie, but she's not much of a collaborator, and I say that as someone who is the same 😅 "If you want something done right, do it yourself" is a most excellent motto. 😉

[@dianegriffith3006]

Interesting comments-re: Pavelina and the arrival of Marie. I wonder when will she be moving back? Pavelina has evolved so much since her arrival in Le Land -I enjoy seeing both she and Marie the chef work together. 😀

[@sherrylucero5557]

Thank you so much for sharing your life. I'm a disabled veteran in the VA hospital and yo all have brightened my day. Much love to you all❤

[@colleenhanley7671]

If you have your own merchandise line, instead of us sending you gifts we could be buying our Christmas and birthday gifts from your website. Images of your beautiful chapel on products would be a great Christmas gift.

[@RoSario-vb8ge]

...or like items made out of fabric and paper with the patterns of the chapel on them, like shawls, cushions, greeting cards, wrapping paper...

[@TheFrenchHare]

Yes! Like what they sell at Sainte Chapelle in Paris. Beautiful tapestry pillows, scarves, photos, etc.

[@Phalaenopsisify]

I think it's hard to sell merchandise, and with all the focus on climate change (creating all our stuff means ever increasing emissions) and people decluttering, more material items are probably not what people need. Perhaps she could try and attract more localish tourists. We mainly hear about people visiting from far flung places right now.

[@ritasengupta9611]

Love watching Maria cook and Pavlna's flower arrangements. Both are so creative.

[@linajackson4545]

Might need to cut costs in other areas.

[@rickflood9813]

Amory and his parents make quite the wall-building team! Love Kirstey and her work on the border.

[@litsakoutoula3071]

Thanks for the update but we're still waiting for the update for the salon. I personally would appreciate more details.😊

[@shannonstone2690]

She can’t do anything to the Grand Salon until the structural beam is replaced- which she mentioned in this video I believe. She just got the survey back as she said.

[@laurahill6321]

God I get stressed doing Reno’s in my 2 bedroom bungalow 😂can’t imagine how Steph deals with her chateau it’s mind blowing.

[@bjbrown]

Yeah, my bathtub has a hole draining to the ground and I am worried about replacing it. A chapel?

[@michellejolly7325]

😂

[@ricoatthebeach]

Structural needs have to come first. Shore up the body of the Chapel, then you can make decisions on the art, lake, and other aesthetic needs. You once received a fabric printed with the pattern of the chapel walls. Perhaps you could do more of that as wall hangings until you can afford the actual restoration. Maybe start with the painting of the death of St. Joseph as that is the most important painting in the Chapel. Get the structure fixed, then everything else can be a work in progress.

[@RoSario-vb8ge]

Additional to these excellent other ideas above, you could use fabric with the pattern of the chapel (silk shawl...) and also paper (wrapping paper, etc.) and could make it available on your website. Maybe that also could create some income for the restauration of the chapel? Just an idea...

[@Sgirl]

She should also take bids for the art restoration. Structually, having the very best people in all France doing the work makes sense, but perhaps the art restoration part can be done by another company. You know anyone who's working on Notre Dame is used to big budgets and bill accordingly. I'm sure there are many reputable painting and plaster restorers, perhaps aligned with universities, who would be willing to take the job on. A smaller company might also be willing to give a price break if you vlogged their work and progress as a way to advertise their business. And of course it wouldn't have to be a French company. There are many skilled church restorers in the UK and Italy. Maybe the quote you got would come down if they knew you were looking elsewhere.

[@TheWalkingDreamer]

This would be a great time to sell digitals of some of your fathers work for a fundraiser. I have always wanted the medieval painting on a tote bag!

[@RoSario-vb8ge]

How true

[@elisabeth6108]

And Andi did a toile with the chapel included in the design.

[@naominixon6332]

As a priest of over 20 years in the Church of England I implore you not to get obsessed by making the building exactly as it was. It’s not a museum, faith should live and breathe and the building adapt as we need them. You will want to hold concerts and probably weddings, so make the building work for that, just as you make the rest of the chateau work for the community who live there now while keeping its history living. I’d suggest you focus on saving the ceiling and the area around the altar, it will be the most spectacular as you use the chapel and so they matter the most. Allow the rest to decay naturally with time. The picture at the back isn’t artistically important and holds no resonance of devotion for you, it looks like a thousand others in church buildings, it’s not worth £15k for the occasional glance up.

[@kiwi_nick]

Totally agree! The beautiful patina of the building really tells its story. Perfect restorations risk the 'Disneyfication' of historic buildings.

[@monicalopina6760]

Coincido ,lo importante es el techo ,lo demas es anecdotico ,hay que salvar la infraestructura ,lo demas es el cachet ,el encanto de lo antiguo ,del paso del tiempo ,abrazo Stephanie ,admiro tu fuerza y perseverancia 🌸🌸

[@flyingturtle7370]

No. Que se restaure es lo mejor. Aunque cueste más ...

[@AmmaLove24]

Completely agree 👍

[@mezanian]

Expansive distance between C of E and French Catholicism of 1860s. You guys were still involved in sending convicts to Port Arthur and slavery.

[@debtheguest3109]

Maria is not only an excellent pianist but quite the chef! God bless Amaury, he works so hard on Lalande and you know that everything he does is done the right way. I'm sure his father had something to do with instilling that in him. Awww Stephanie I wish i had the money to give you to restore the chapel. I agree, it's worth restoring to it's former glory.

[@SurrealSaDiabel]

This breaks my heart.... I remember I started following and contributing all because of The Chapel.... hopefully artists and historians alike will see this beautiful building and want to help in restoring the art.

[@CuriousCalligrapher]

Look to grants. If the historical significance is as important as you say, there may be grants available to help offset the cost of the chapels repair costs! 'French historical grants for building repairs' I Googled this and found a listing of things that may apply, but that was just one simple search, more are possible!

[@azerty123qw]

I know there is something called Mission Stéphane Bern. Every year they select projects that they fund.

[@hectorbrown656]

⁠​⁠@@azerty123qw Stéphane Bern sells lottery tickets here in France to help restore old French buildings , who can be visited by the French public , I am not sure that they would consider helping Stephanie who has a private house only dating from 1860.

[@tinekejoldersma]

Is it perhaps an idea to ask the University that does Restoration in Paris to come and let students do their study in your chapel? I know they work on other restoration work in castles all around France. I bet you can find information about that.

[@lynnralph8373]

Regarding the scaffolding quote for the chapel, do also inquire what it would cost for you to purchase it new...because the quote the architect gave is really high...at that price it should belong to you once the work is done! Then you could sell it when you no longer need it.

[@user-cw3bo6vw3n]

Yes, that seems like a very very high quote. I bet there are better deals out there.

[@alliejones9864]

Can you access the French restoration grants as mentioned by the new owners if Purnon?

[@rickflood9813]

Very near term, and please consult with the professional restorer, if a dehumidifier would do anything helpful toward stabilizing the moisture in the air inside the chapel? Take too much humidity out, and that might be a problem...it would just pull from the walls. Immediately also, I think the French drain shouid be one of the first things you do and perhaps the perimeter foundation can be stabilized at the same time.

[@crae3422]

A brief aside after going on about the other stuff. Bravo Kristie and gardening team! Love the gorgeous walled garden border. The plants are stunning. The gardens of Lalande are a favorite and would love to see more of them, especially this time of year when they change so quickly. And Maria is a wonder, an amazing gift. So are all the Lalanders. Love to all.

[@lindamounts2193]

Is the bed and breakfast paying for all the people who are needed to cook and clean for it? How about doing the bed and breakfast more than Friday - Sun? Open it up for the week. If it's costing more to employ the people who run it than you're making from it, either you do more of it yourself or you stop it and reduce the staff needed for it. It's a business.

[@bethanya99]

Oh Kirsty! The border is GORGEOUS!! I love the theme of pinks, reds, purples!!

[@andrealandsburg8882]

I think restoring the chapel is a luxury that may need to wait..seems to me that focusing on repairing the Chateau itself is more pressing. It's the chateau that supports the rest of the grounds.. The lake can wait.

[@AvaT42]

I agree.

[@stephanieh.777]

If they wait, that piece of architectural history will be lost.

[@ludovica8221]

@@stephanieh.777 Hi definition images mean that the detail can be reproduced once the building is safe. The blown out plaster is a write off already and all needs to be replaced because the mold spores and damp have already destroyed it. Trying to glue it all back in place will never be beautiful or sustainable

[@sineadkelliher1370]

I really enjoy this channel and I know that Stephanie has many patrons, I am not sure if she is asking the government to restore this her asking her patrons to pay to restore this?

[@lukehartman9386]

@@sineadkelliher1370 the government will not pay to restore this chapel because it’s privately owned. Someone explained it extremely well in the comments.

[@yeseniafroml.a.8020]

Restoration is always pricey, however It will be worth it. I break down big overwhelming things in little steps like you, little by little it will get done; eventually. Hugs to you Stephanie. I loved seeing Amaury with parents and Natalie working together, it brought a smile to my face. I am cheering for you Stephanie. ❤

[@CBEEBLE]

Stephanie have you been in touch with the Fondation du Patrimoine for the Chapel? The heritage architect / restorers should be able to advise you surely. I heard they can subsidise up to 40% of the restoration costs.

[@margarettaylor920]

Amaury looks like he is over it!

[@libbyanderson3752]

I would think Stephanie must already have this knowledge. Perhaps her two co owners can contribute and ease the burden.

[@kathyrichards1039]

I was thinking the same. Michael Potts and Nic are also owners. What do they suggest? Dividing the cost between 3 parties would not be so bad.

[@Sophia-zk3tw]

Maria is brilliant and extremely talented

[@susanneking2524]

A new way to prepare potatoes! I just love how everyone comes together to help around the property, watching you all work together for the united goal of restoring this beautiful Chateau is heartwarming, you have managed it so well and it's a long expensive process, but it will find a way.

[@terrileyda5346]

Amaury is a flipping genius! That wall system is incredible!

[@starlighthillfarmhouse]

Amaury what a wonderful family you have. You are blessed.

[@jackierice4254]

Best to save your pennies and try not to keep shopping for luxury items! Repairing the dangerous beam should take priority and be done immediately!

[@harrytuttle0]

Sounds they are quoting you for extreme conservation grade restoration for a listed property, when its not actually listed. If entire Chateaus can be repaired for that price, im sure you can find a more realistic quote/good tradespeople

[@LaReynedEpee]

I'm pretty astounded at the figures quoted. €150k to stabilise foundations? You could move the whole building to another spot for that price. It's a tiny building. Just sounds OTT to me. Hm. I think if I were Steph I'd see if some advice could be sought in the UK, because to me, this really does sound extortionate for a foundation that is an absolutely tiny footprint.

[@user-cw3bo6vw3n]

I agree find a better quote, this sounds way to high.

[@Sgirl]

Yes, if this is the company that is doing restorations for Notre Dame they are obviously used to big budgets and price accordingly. Perhaps get quotes from other companies, especially if you break the job down into different parts. I know it's tempting to just give the whole project to one big company and just say "do it!" as they would handle all the hiring and oversee everything for you, but if broken down each step could be contracted out to smaller companies and most likely at better more competitive prices. You'd essentially have to be your own contracter/project manager. A lot more work but potentially huge savings. I know the man who was originally going to do the plaster and paint restoration is getting on in years, but he obviously wasn't going to charge you €300,000 to do the paint and plasterwork. If he's not up to it, surely you can find someone else more reasonable.

[@mlewis4951]

€20,000 is a small price to pay, in order to prevent costly errors in future. It would seem that a structural report at the beginning of any project especially with buildings of this age, would just be money well spent in the long run.

[@michaelwoodbodley8099]

That dinner looks absolutely magnificent!

[@joannepoland9664]

The flowers are beautiful. Kristy has brought so much talent to your garden. I’ve learned so much from the different ideas you have all brought to the ideal walled garden. I love the creative cooking.

[@dorydiavelone3531]

I would photograph the paintings in the chapel Extensively, as crazy as it sounds maybe you can have artist ( regular artists come in and reproduce the paintings ) it’s better then having it going to let it go!

[@20thcenturyrescue]

Also on "how to renovate a chateau (without killing your partner) said heating is very important. In order to stoop the crumbling heat needs to be installed.

[@lesleythomson2823]

You are so lucky to have so much revenue coming into La Lande to help cover the costs of the restoration of the chapel x

[@southloupriverhomestead4696]

I would call it hard work and a good positive personality and attitude. What does luck have to do with it?

[@rachelsotora6044]

I don’t think it’s luck. She works hard at uploading and editing vlogs and running the B&B. She has help but that’s only because of KZbin she can afford the help she has.

[@crae3422]

I don't call working herself into the hospital on two occasions - luck. Like all the inhabitants of Lalande, Steph works hard to save the Chateau and keep it going. In so doing she supports local businesses in the region. Her videos and financial support of local communities is breathing life into the area. The Flower Farmer is but one example. Nor do you see the work she does behind the scenes, and that's not including the hours of time each video takes. The administrative work alone is huge. Steph has invested hundreds of thousands of dollars of her own money into Lalande from the purchase and on through the years. She's fighting to take care of her people, the Chateau, while being responsive to Lalande's supporters. In my world, that is admirable.

[@elaineteut9579]

@@rachelsotora6044 Gee people, lighten up.

[@TiemposDePaz]

More than enough.

[@sadjaxx]

How wonderful that you now have the plan in hand to move forward in order to resolve the structural renovations in the chapel and the chateau. Step by step.

[@commonsense246]

I'd hate to hear that exquisite ceiling of the heavens has come to loss...what a tragedy. Praying! Garden border is just breath taking! Good show!

[@mavep2855]

You will find a way to save the chapel Stephanie have faith. Amaury and his family did an awesome job on the fireproof wall-all hands on deck. Pavlina and Maria outdid themselves and it was nice to see Kirsty and the new border. Thank you Stephanie and Philip🙏❤️

[@newbrightonflowerarrangeme5143]

That delicate pink flower that Kirsty called a heuchera is actually Tellima grandiflora the flowers gradually change from green to pink as the flower matures although you look as if you could have a pinker form Great easy growing plant They seem to have liked the cold winter we have just had Also smells slightly if lily of the valley

[@deba4537]

Note from Portland, Oregon: Tellima grandiflora is a native plant in our woods here, and fairly easy in gardens. It's related to Mitella (from which it was separated, hence the anagram!), and I think to Tiarella and Heuchera. All so lovely when seen in a mass, equally so when you look at the individual flower through a hand lens. Lovely!

[@lhmcd5538]

Everyone is so talented at what they do. Best wishes in getting the chapel fixed. Thank you. May you all please take care and stay safe.

[@crazychaoscow]

Regarding the deer on your lown: where I live this gets more and more common since the region was repopulated with wolfs. As wolfs are shy towards humans, other wild animals seek humans for safety. If in France you also have more wolfs again you might want to have a look around your property to make sure all your animals are safe. How far away are the sheep for example?

[@joseeallyn9950]

Wolf hounds (they run the wolves to death) or Borzoi Hounds which will also get rid of wolves. Some of the breeds (not overbred show dogs!) will guard the perimeter of your land against any predators, They pace all the time , on guard, thus protecting sheep, deer, people and all other creatures within their area.

[@elisabeth6108]

More likely that it is a yearling buck who has been driven out of his birth herd by the reigning buck and is at loose ends.

[@amysbees6686]

Great Pyrenees are excellent farm dogs. They were bred to protect sheep.

[@joseeallyn9950]

@@amysbees6686 They are lovely , very handsome too. There are two who live in a little town near me, I can't resist stroking them, but then I have never met a dog I didn't love ! I can't say the same for their owners!

[@user-cw3bo6vw3n]

Kristy did such a lovely job picking specimens for the border garden. Will be such nice additions for a cutting garden. It is so hard to plan a space like that. So well done.

[@mocarra100]

How does Stephanie not have 500,000 subscribers? Best chateau channel out there.

[@lgrigg5439]

We need to pass the word around how great this channel is love from Australia 🇦🇺 ❤️ 😍

[@GabrielOsson]

If each current subscriber ask one friend to join, she'll be almost there. So let's get it going and explode.

[@wandamackenzie144]

I am always questioning this. We just have to imagine seeing her happy at receiving the 1million subscriber play button from you tube ❣It is done 💥

[@lgrigg5439]

@@GabrielOsson let's start and see how far we go!!

[@mocarra100]

@@lgrigg5439 Let's go PEOPLE! LET'S GET STEPHANIE 500,000 SUBSCRIBERS!

[@piarasmussen8693]

Sorry, but that price is totally rediculus, the chateau is the most important

[@relax8619]

Maybe Stephanie could teach paid classes on you tube for how to sew drapes to fund the chapel.

[@sonnykat462]

When a house (chapel) is a money pit, you come to a point where you have to decide if you will continue to pour money after money into it. And even after doing all this, it's never the end.

[@joannainperth]

But no one has put money into it for like 100 years. So the cost is so high because of the neglect. And it’s clear Stephanie feels an obligation to save the building. And she probably is uniquely able to find the funds. With a normal building I would totally agree that it’s not worth sinking the money into it. But I totally get where she’s coming from with wanting to save it.

[@mommashawna707]

My grandmother had an old historic home in Illinois and she had her prize peonies, they were the most beautiful humongous flowers I have ever seen still in my life. I can remember playing out in the garden as a child, I can also remember running and screaming from those giant bumblebees that would keep those peonies looking beautiful. Lol

[@chrisdavis2040]

So great to hear an update on the Chapel, but wow, the cost involved is so huge. A little at a time and it will be done.

[@patriciabyett8910]

What an amazing chapel, I pray that the chapel will be restored to all its rightful glory.

[@5578pedro]

There are so many lovely kind natured positive people working together to make the chateau run smoothly. I hope it lasts a long time. I love all the good tips and advice from viewers who have experience and expertise.

[@Lovemy60to70era]

I just love all the info on the Chapel amazing what it originally looked like. It is a miracle what you and your team have accomplished thus far on the Chateau. Prayers and Blessings coming your way for continued efforts. ❤

[@Crosbie100]

So excited just came across more4 and new chateau DIY living the dream. Whole episode about Stephanie's chateau. 😊😊😊

[@eunidapieters9331]

I have loved your channel from the word go, so yes, I do feel sincere heartache with the current circumstances of the news you just conveyed. I recall in an earlier episode way back, you had the chateau valued, and your disappointment when it was valued (with all those costly earlier reservations in mind) your enormous disappointment, the latest value, at exactly the amount you purchased it for so many years ago! My point, (I know, the sentiment and your promise...) is it worth it? I don't know the exact circumstances and history of the huge family that owned the chateau previously, but can't help wondering how a dying man made you promise to take up such an enormous task of reserving his family estate, while the ''actual family'' let it lay unattended for years. Stephanie, I would think twice if I was in your shoes...truly! Europe is going deeper and deeper into a tough economical recession, the surrounding area of the Chateau, rural? Many newly bought chateau restoration properties surfacing daily, closer to cities with transport in mind? I would think long and hard if I was you.

[@vickyoakes4584]

Another great video, thank you so much!❤

[@maryquinn1706]

Good luck with renovations of the chapel Stephanie. Thank you very much for the accordion potato recipe Maria. My family will love it! Philip, the table setting is beautiful as usual as are all the bouquets Pavlina.

[@beautyallaroundme724]

Interesting accordion potatoes. I love the paintings in the chapel--especially the starry sky (reminds me of the ancient Egyptian starry skies).

[@normamurray4450]

I do hope you'll be able to get the support you need to re-do the chapel to it's former glory. The dinner looks delicious as does the table setting and the flower arrangements! A breath of fresh air!

[@hisnewlife3543]

Oh my! World’s absolute longest chapel restoration!

[@choochalah]

Hahaha indeed.

[@peterwhite9261]

This is heart-wrenching. I know you will achieve your promise. The food and flowers are incredible. ❤

[@dlynch1898]

I am so hungry now after seeing the wonderful and talented chef serve her stunning supper and brilliant table settings and the gorgeous flowers. ❤wow. TFS ❤

[@bevcox4716]

It so cool 2 see Amorie & his parents working. Lovely

[@ShieldsSamantha]

Kirstie's so pretty. When she's looking at the flowers...oh man. And I'm a straight married lady.

[@JeannieMitchellMyers]

Another fab video, thanks so much for sharing them with us all. God willing, all will turn out... God Bless each and every one of you including your guest.

[@jonavin2361]

Sending my very best wishes for your endeavours to save your chapel. You are a special person and so are all of the Lalande family xx

[@shaunbarton-collins1180]

I was expecting a higher figure, I'm pleasantly surprised at 400k... I'm sure help will come and your worthy goal will happen..... My stepfather who passed away last christmas, spent the last 30 years working on church decorative surfaces projects as well as many historic buildings including the Customs House in London. No financial reward

[@w.dossett3332]

Shaun, no financial reward ,what a kind hearted and truely gifted man. Has any member of his family inherited his skills ?

[@MP-xf6gq]

Save the chapel structurally and weatherproofing and leave all the 300K painting for the next owner....Antoine. lol

[@colleengallo4831]

People have great ideas on how to minimize the cost or fund the restoration of the cathedral. If nothing else, do the most critical work first which would include water abatement to reduce the chance of further deterioration

[@josephinewills8647]

Goodness, It’s Expensive, Stephanie Where Will This Going, It’s Going to Cost a Fortune, Good Luck 🍀👍

[@mika72.-Bois]

There's a need for a hydrologist & geohydrol- ogist or a hydrogeol- ogist to study the impacts of draining the lake had on groundwater etc.

[@LaReynedEpee]

I'd do that, and if a link can be proven to the draining of the lake, I'd sue the water company who ordered it drained.

[@lindagage7315]

Keeping my fingers crossed for the chapel, it's so beautiful, or will be again!

[@tamiwallace7572]

Kirstey is so talented and absolutely gorgeous!!!

[@user-cw3bo6vw3n]

She is a special person

[@kmarch6630]

Maybe some of the traveling will have to be put on hold to save for the chapel.

[@1968rhiannon]

I hardly think that they spend 400k on travel. Or even the initial $150k.

[@carolinegooder7091]

The traveling for "Traveling with My Friend" pays for itself as the profits go 50/50 to Ollie's house and Lalande's restoration.

[@TheChateauDiaries]

That’s why I started a travel channel. I love traveling, but want all funds to be able to go into Lalande. By making traveling one of my jobs, it now creates income for the chateau. Since starting vlogging 5 years ago, I’ve actually only had 1 holiday in which I didn’t film at all.

[@blairwarren5418]

Would love a new tour of all the rooms.

[@veronicashoop5630]

No more trips for fun, no more antique buying, rent the rooms for guests, do the repair of the Chapel in stages, have patience. Good luck.

[@florencecampana1515]

What a HARD worker , bravo 👏 Amaury. You should be very proud of all people helping you in this huge project 👏 👍

[@libramay17]

Steph you have been doing and are doing such a wonderful job shouldering all the weight of restoring your beautiful chateau, gardens, lake and chapel. And at the same time employing all these wonderful crafts people to help you along this journey, as well as filming for youtube and patreon. I hope you remind yourself to give yourself a pat on the back every now and then because its a huge job and you always do it with a smile. Everyone that watches can see what a brilliant job your doing, i know we are all so proud of you ♥️

[@annieknight71]

I have a deer family that visit the green space behind my home almost every night with her babies. Year old ones from last year and new babies this year.

[@donnadodman8865]

Restoration is really challenging, and overwhelming with all the costs. Your passion and determination is so admirable Stephanie. The Chateau and grounds are so lucky to have all of you, and once again thank you to all for sharing this journey with all of us!! ❤

[@JenniferKokoski]

I'm watching this in January of 2024 after the restoration of the structural damage of the chapel has been completed. And after many contributors, patrons and just viewers, have adopted a star to help salvage the painting work of this chapel. I was lucky to be one of those who adopted a star in the name of her parents. And I am so pleased to see that this chapel is being restored to its original grandeur. Stephanie if you're reading this comment months after you posted this video, just take heart that no matter what obstacles are put in your path, there's always help. I know you're grateful for all that help. Know that through you many of us have grown to love your Chateau. And we all want to do something to help take care of it.

[@franescadiano]

But didn't the emergency concern the collapsing building and the grand salon? What about it now?

[@shirleyw8531]

She said that the cost of that repair is less than they expected so that is going ahead and she will find a way to do the structural repairs on the Chapel but the paint work will take longer to fund

[@crae3422]

@@lynziekirby8882 And you know what she receives, how? Work on Lalande is constant. Monies received from her patrons goes to just that and pays for the salaries, equipment, engineering studies, surveys, architects, etc for all restoration efforts, along with monies being set aside for large projects like the Chapel and Lake. All Steph is doing is keeping her supporters informed. Steph, all of us, had hoped for work on the Chapel and Lake to much simpler, faster, and cheaper. Informing everyone as to the results of the engineers' finding and what would be involved with restoring the Chapel, the time and monies it will take, is the responsible thing to do.

[@spoiledartist9471]

@@lynziekirby8882 you do know she has to pay half of the Patreon money to taxes. She said all the people she employs, yes the B&B money help, as done the AD money from us watching. She thanked everyone who are her patrons… maybe I am missing something but when did she ask you to give her money? She has always said that us watching ad’s is enough. She never begged for anyone to become patrons, and they get more videos, they aren’t blindly donating. Without KZbin Stephanie would have never, in her lifetime, been able to get the château to where it is. And let’s be real people like Logan Paul on this platform are multi millionaires filming themselves doing immature things, they aren’t doing anything close to restoring a build to preserve the past. They have private jet flights and Birkin bag collections.

[@choochalah]

@@lynziekirby8882 and she owns another property in London....but hey...let's get the rubes to pay...

[@lukehartman9386]

@@choochalah she explained why she won’t sell her flat in London in the comments. No need to be so unkind.

[@amdwestca]

Your dedication and enthusiasm will get you through this incredible effort. One day and one step at a time. So many have offered structured funding recommendations. You can do this!

[@lindawentink2725]

Just wonderful as always. Top notch, food, scenery, people and so interesting

[@willmills1388]

Amazing video as usual❤😊

[@thoeset]

Structural repairs, as you said, first. The rest will come. ❤

[@joseemalette3181]

Stéphane Berne who is a very well known French affectionado and passionate about historical buidings renos would probably help with ghe restoration of the Chapel anf perhaps the château's, He is the one that animates Secrets d'histoire a very well known telvision program.

[@debbierudolph9489]

Sending prayers for the funds to become available for the full restoration of such a beautiful chapel. 🙏

[@jaynegrunnill3705]

Keep giving us a glimpse of inside the Chapel.Its so lovely.Also helps to keep us motivated as viewers and Patreons.

[@anthonylewischurchill-theg233]

Stephanie You will succeed I feel it Bless You

[@karenreece8232]

I love that your aunt is helping in her pearls and wrap❤