The 12,000-square-foot estate known as Chateau Très Belle stands as one of Mark Pothier’s most detailed and comprehensive projects to date—an elegant testament to the enduring art of faux finishing and Venetian plaster. Situated in Rancho Santa Fe, California, this new-construction home required a year and a half of hands-on artistry from Mark and his skilled crew, ensuring that every surface reflected the warmth and authenticity of classic European craftsmanship.

Transforming Every Surface
From the very start, every interior and exterior element was envisioned as a unified composition of texture, tone, and depth. The exterior windows and doors—originally factory-primed white—were meticulously faux finished to match the rich stained woodwork found inside. Even the precast concrete details, inside and out, were artfully transformed to resemble aged French limestone, bringing harmony and sophistication to the entire structure.

Furniture-Quality Finishes
Inside, no detail was overlooked. Radius moldings surrounding doors, windows, arches, and ceilings were first sealed, then layered with stain, glaze, and wax before being hand-rubbed and French polished to a furniture-quality finish. Every surface—whether ceiling beam or baseboard—was finished by hand to achieve the authentic patina of a well-aged chateau.
The Great Room’s impressive ceiling beams, crafted entirely from lightweight foam, were faux painted with a convincing woodgrain finish, blending seamlessly with the home’s old-world character.

Old World Walls and Limestone Fireplaces
The walls throughout the home were finished in a soft, glazed Venetian plaster that captures the texture and warmth of a French country estate. The grand fireplace, originally gray precast concrete, was skillfully painted to emulate the subtle color variations of genuine French limestone.

A Labor of Love and Detail
Every inch of Chateau Très Belle was hand-finished—walls, ceilings, cabinetry, moldings, and even the exterior window surrounds. The entry doors were individually hand-distressed, stained, and glazed to achieve a genuine 17th-century character.
After a year and a half of continuous dedication, the project was completed to perfection. The results speak for themselves—a timeless, refined environment that fully embodies the name “Très Belle,” meaning “very beautiful.” Both the builder and clients were delighted, and the home remains a showcase of what true craftsmanship can achieve when artistry meets patience and precision.