Special projects · Press · Accolades
Special projects, in the public eye.
Most of Black Oak's work is private by design. A few projects become public. These are some of the ones that have, and the recognition behind the work.
Special project · Solvang, Santa Ynez Valley · 2022–2026
The Solvang cottage once owned by Dolly Parton
Owner · Restoration · Listing broker
A three-building cottage compound near the heart of Solvang, owned for a decade by Dolly Parton. Cris bought it in 2022, restored it and, in 2026, represented its sale.
The property is a main cottage with two accessory dwelling units behind it, the kind of small, layered Valley property Black Oak knows well. Cris restored it over four years, including the front-yard windmill, and added the stained-glass window above the front door. He documented the work as it went.
When the history came to light, the property drew national attention. Cris listed it himself in 2026, managed showings for qualified buyers only, and closed the sale in October after five offers.
- Main cottage and two accessory dwelling units
- Restoration of the windmill and original details
- Listed and sold by Cris Lapp, 2026
- Five offers; closed October 2026
In the press
Coverage of the Solvang cottage.
- Homes.com · Dolly Parton's whimsical California cottage sells for nearly $2 millionRead at Homes.com
- Daily News · Dolly Parton's former Solvang cottage compound lists for $2 millionRead at Daily News
- Galerie · Dolly Parton's Former California Cottage Retreat Is on the MarketRead at Galerie
- KTLA · Dolly Parton's former Solvang home is on the marketRead at KTLA
- Los Angeles Times · There's a piece of Dolly Parton's legacy in this California townRead at Los Angeles Times
- Edhat · Historic Solvang Triplex Once Owned by Dolly Parton Lists For Nearly $2 MillionRead at Edhat
- Noozhawk · Dolly Parton's Former Solvang 'Weekend Retreat' on the Market for Almost $2 MillionRead at Noozhawk
- SFGATEFor a decade, Dolly Parton secretly lived in this Central Coast townRead at SFGATE
- San Francisco ChronicleYou can own Dolly Parton's former California hideaway for $2 millionRead at San Francisco Chronicle
- Realtor.comDolly Parton's Very Quirky Former Hideaway Hits the Market in California for $2 Million—Complete With Its Own WindmillRead at Realtor.com
Accolades & public service
Recognition behind the work.
- Commissioner, Central Board of Architectural Review, County of Santa Barbara
- Commissioner, Assessment Appeals Board, County of Santa Barbara
- Citizens Oversight Committee, Santa Barbara County Association of Governments
- Senior Member, International Right of Way Association (IRWA 8003294)
- Professional Certificate, Public Engagement and Civic Leadership, Pepperdine Davenport Institute, 2025
- Professional Certificate, Leadership and AI, Stanford Online, 2025
Public service informs how Black Oak prepares projects. Cris does not participate in the review of any project Black Oak represents.
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