When you think of the Chattanooga area, you envision breathtaking views, splendid outdoor living, and a beautiful downtown bustling with activities for your family and friends to enjoy. However, nestled in the surrounding mountains, suburbs, and downtown areas, you’ll find magnificent works of art in the form of luxurious, sprawling mansions. Let’s take a look at five of the most extraordinary homes in our Scenic City and the beauty they add to our surroundings.

Château des Reves 

The first one to explore is accurately dubbed “Château des Reves – The House of Dreams.” Some locals also refer to it as the “Baby Biltmore” or “Modern-Day Biltmore.” This 23,000-square-foot stunner is truly a work of art. Perfectly located at 6500 Solitude Way in Chattanooga, TN, on a 2.5-acre lot on the Tennessee River. No expense was spared in making this opulent home a sight to behold. Construction began in 2007, with the plans drawn up by John Sholtz of Phoenix, AZ. It took seven years to build and approximately $40 million to complete. The mansion features 6 bedrooms, 6 full bathrooms, 4 half bathrooms, 4 kitchens, a two-story library, a conservatory, 4 wet bars, a theater room, indoor and outdoor pools with spas, and many more, about 20 rooms in total. Behind a gated entrance is a welcoming two-story waterfall that greets you. The elegance and beauty that is etched into every detail of this mansion is unfathomable; from the gold plated fixtures by Sherle Wagner to solid Mahogany doors, hand carved black walnut accents in the library and kitchen and cabinetry from Clive Christian, the opulence matches the grandeur of this masterpiece. Truly, all of the attention to detail in every aspect of the home is too numerous to list. This “House of Dreams” is currently for sale. Explore the elegance and beauty of this property; you will not regret it (check it out for yourself).

Lookout Valley Mansion

Next on the list of luxury homes to peruse is the Lookout Valley Mansion. This home proudly holds the title of the most expensive home ever sold in the Chattanooga area. Located at 502 Browns Ferry Rd., Chattanooga, TN, it was sold for $8.7 million to a Montana investor. This lavish home boasts 17,772 square feet, 6 bedrooms, 5 full bathrooms, 3 half baths, and sits on 26 acres of land right on the Tennessee River on Moccasin Bend. The home showcases amazing details inside and out, exuding luxury from top to bottom. It features solid hardwood and tile floors throughout, as well as crafted stonework inside and out. The extravagant kitchen with Wolf appliances, custom-designed movie theater, trophy room, gym, and multiple game rooms are just a few highlights that make this home spectacular. However, it is the outdoor kitchen, pool, sauna, boat dock, and breathtaking view that truly take your breath away.  Don’t miss this stunner on your list of places to behold in our beautiful state.

Ooltewah Mansion

The third mansion of note is the Ooltewah Mansion, also known as the Bell Mill Mansion, located at 8843 Forest Creek Ln., Ooltewah, TN. This sumptuous home is a European, classical-style masterpiece with an extravagant 23,284 square feet, 6 bedrooms, and 12 bathrooms. Known as Château de La Crique, loosely translated as “the Creek Castle,” it is truly a marvel to appreciate. Built in 2008, it cost more than $8 million to achieve this level of artistry. This jaw-dropping mansion sits on 3.01 acres of land with perfectly manicured gardens and landscape. Upon entry, you are greeted with a double staircase surrounded by ornate artwork in a magnificent foyer. The mansion boasts 13 fireplaces, custom and designer finishes at every turn, and even includes a guest house for all your entertaining needs. And don’t forget to explore the stunning backyard!  Now you can rent it via AirBNB, take a look and see the glorious beauty for yourself!

Elder Mountain Mansion

The fourth mansion that is a must-see is the Elder Mountain Mansion, also known as the Mills Residence. Located at 901 Skillet Gap Rd., Chattanooga, TN, this sprawling modern mansion offers captivating views of the Tennessee River Gorge from every angle. Built in 1998 by Sharon Mills, the daughter of the late Olan Mills, the renowned portrait studio artist. The architect for this masterpiece was Hugh Newell Jacobsen. Known for designing homes for Jackie Kennedy Onassis, James Garner, Meryl Streep, and others, Jacobsen was inducted into the Architectural Digest’s Hall of Fame in 2021. Sold in August of 2022, for $4.9 million, this mansion sits on 26.5 acres and is truly a work of art in itself. With 11,347 square feet, the mansion features 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and 2 half baths. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide spectacular views. The home includes its own art gallery, library, Olympic-size pool and spa, apple orchards, and walking trails adorned with carved sculptures.  Make sure you dive into the photos online to see the artistry!

1101 Concord St. Mansion

The last jewel of a home we’ll explore is located at 1101 Concord St., Chattanooga, TN. Built in 2015, this beauty sits on close to half an acre of land, offering 5,090 square feet of living space. While it may be smaller in size compared to the other homes, it boasts exquisite finishes and stunning surroundings. This custom home overlooks the Chattanooga Golf and Country Club golf course, with the Tennessee River not too far away. It features 3 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and 1 half bath. Above the 3-car garage, there is an apartment or mother-in-law suite. Sold in September of 2020, for $3.35 million, this home’s ornate details will not only amaze you but also intrigue your senses with its diverse and artful decor in each room, including the outdoor garden and fountain. Furthermore, its location is spectacular. Behold the artistry of this beauty!

These are just a few of the hidden gems nestled in and around our Scenic City. One would be remiss to not examine the art and intricacy that each mansion possesses. I promise that you will not be disappointed! Enjoy the journey!