Today we’d like to introduce you to Isobel McGowan.
Hi Isobel, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I found the Shakespeare Chateau in late 2011 while in St Joseph on other business. The building and its location on “Millionaire’s Row” caught my attention, especially when I found out the building was listed for sale as a “distressed” property. It had been in negligent hands for about a decade, and had suffered extensive water damage and systems failure. I made a plan to purchase and restore the home to its rightful place as one of the finest mansion homes in the city.
I closed on the house and moved from Denver Colorado in May 2012 to undertake the rehabilitation. Now after more than 13 years working on the project, the house and grounds have been restored to elegance and function. I have refurbished and furnished six guest suites, four elegant original parlor/dining areas, a commercial kitchen, and a wine cellar.
In 2015, my project was recognized with a ‘Preserve Missouri’ award. The property was also the location of a full-length feature film in 2018, ‘Christmas at the Chateau.’
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been challenging in many respects. This building is large (almost 10,000 square feet) and complicated. The roof and rain gutter system alone represent a complex system of water shedding, collection, and diversion that needed attention in many aspects.
The kitchen renovation was a huge project that started in the basement to restore structural support for the sagging floor. But that is just one of many ‘legacy projects’ that I have undertaken.
It is always critical to find capable and reliable contractors. I have had the great good fortune to work with some extremely skillful trades people. I have also had a few experiences with less-qualified people, including one fellow I nick-named ‘Do-It-Twice Dave.’
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
The Shakespeare Chateau Inn and Gardens is a full-service bed-and-breakfast with six guest rooms for overnight accommodations. We also offer event hosting for all kinds of gatherings, including weddings, baby and bridal showers, luncheons, high tea, dinner parties, business meetings, and more. The original intact high-Victorian interior design is a magnet for tourism, and we have been featured on dozens of tours.
I specialize in offering a full experience for my guests, with a personal touch that extends from the moment people come into the home, through breakfast the next day, and including a tailored personal tour of the interior.
I am most often remembered by my guests for my story-telling and my cooking. All food is prepared from scratch on the premises.
I am most proud of this extraordinary building, its original features, and especially the collection of stained glass that includes 47 original windows. That is more than any other gilded-age mansion, anywhere in North America!
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I have been very lucky in many respects. Just finding this house at the right time in my life when I was able to make it my project was very lucky. I have also been very lucky to have known and partnered with many people who have contributed to my project.
Pricing:
- Guest rooms run about $200-250 per night, including the hot home-cooked breakfast.
- Wedding packages start at $1799 for the facility rental
- The property, including 3 buildings, almost 2 acres of land, the collection of fine art and antiques that furnish the home, and all of the business equipment and assets is collectively priced at $2.8 million
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Shakespearechateau.com
