Second home in the Alps serves as a luxury spa with spectacular views and hi-tech facilities

This article showcases 12 modern ski chalets across various locations, each embodying unique design elements and offering luxurious winter retreats. The collection begins with an Aspen, Colorado, ski chalet redesigned by Ghislaine Viñas and S2 Architects, which transformed a three-level, nearly 6,000-square-foot structure. The chalet's low-pitched hipped roof was replaced with a contemporary gabled one, extending to create deep eaves over a cantilevered balcony. Inspired by Aspen's early Swedish settlers, traditional Alpine architecture, and vintage ski-bum culture, the southern facade features expansive glass, offering views of the snowy landscape. Another Aspen property, a three-level rustic-chic ski chalet, underwent modernization by Rowland+Broughton. This 1990s stone-and-glass dwelling, known for its sensitive integration with mountain surroundings, received architectural interventions such as enlarged, view-enhancing windows and sliding doors, alongside meticulous editing of existing glazing mullions. In Baie-Saint-Paul, Canada, Chalet Bertha, designed by Perron, is situated on a hillside in the Laurentian Mountains. This 7,500-square-foot snow chalet features clean lines, inviting textures, and abundant natural light. Its design, inspired by Germanic mythology's Alpine goddess, aims to evoke a "winter spirit indoors" warmed by human connection. The three-level structure offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and the Saint Lawrence River. The article then moves to Norway, where Snorre Stinessen Architecture conceived a ski chalet-style lodge in the Lyngen Alps. Originally conceptualized as a cabin, it evolved into a luxurious hospitality destination for guests seeking world-class skiing and glacier trekking. The design emphasizes a connection with the landscape through simple, earthy materials and floor-to-ceiling windows providing panoramic views. A rustic cabin in Breckenridge, Colorado, renovated by Amy Pigliacampo, blends old and new. This 1976-built A-frame ski chalet, located at an elevation of 11,000 feet, underwent a significant transformation. Pigliacampo painted the original pine paneling white, opened up the space with a new window above the kitchen, and incorporated materials like cane, caramel leather, creamy wool, and various wood tones to achieve a "1970s Modern Alpine Chalet" aesthetic. Studio Shoo designed a hotel in Kogalym, Western Siberia, for Ibis Styles. This 7,600-square-foot property, conceived as a winter wonderland, draws inspiration from the region's subarctic climate. The Moxy Banff, formerly the Voyager Inn, is a Canadian ski lodge that received a $30 million overhaul by Workshop/APD and Metafor. Built in 1964, the motor lodge was revitalized to combine the Moxy brand's playful personality, Banff's outdoor spirit, and its mid-century architectural roots. In Park City, Utah, a property by CLB Architects and Iluminus co-founder David Ostrander offers striking views of the Wasatch Mountains. The design utilizes a material palette established by the building's exterior, including Croatian limestone, shou sugi ban cedar cladding, steel-framed windows, and a copper roof. A unique "pop-up perch" provides 360-degree views, reminiscent of forest-fire watchtowers. Loren Daye of Studio Love is Enough transformed a Hudson Valley country inn into the Alpine-inspired Little Cat Lodge, a 14-room ski hotel, tavern, and bar. The subtle makeover includes reclaimed mushroom box-clad walls, checkered daybeds, Isamu Noguchi lanterns, and custom maple furniture. In Truckee, California, a Martis Camp retreat designed by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson and the Wiseman Group is a 12,200-square-foot, three-level ski residence positioned to take advantage of Pacific Crest Trail views. The west-facing facade is almost entirely glass, complemented by overlapping cedar screens for privacy. The article also highlights two mid-century buildings by Herbert Bayer at the Aspen Institute in Colorado. The 1973 Boettcher Building was renovated by Rowland+Broughton, while the three International Style "ski chalets" for the Aspen Meadows Resort had their interiors reinvented by Michael Suomi, who incorporated legacy furniture pieces referencing Bauhaus origins. Finally, a single-story glass house by ACDF Architecture in Quebec’s Lanaudière region emphasizes its natural surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows maximize natural light and offer sweeping views. The interior features minimal furniture, muted tones, polished concrete flooring, and wooden plank ceilings with gaps to soften direct sunlight, creating spaces for both connection and privacy for a young family. #SkiChalets #WinterGetaway #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #AlpineDesign #RusticChic #SustainableDesign #GlassHouses

The concept of luxury within one's home has expanded beyond traditional indicators like extensive car collections, designer bags, high-end watches, or palatial residences. A new status symbol has emerged: the personalized home luxury spa. This trend, which gained significant traction in 2017, sees affluent homeowners incorporating advanced wellness facilities into their living spaces. These bespoke spas often feature bio-saunas, iced plunge pools, experience showers, Russian-style banyas, and even decorative elements like aquarium walls, moving beyond the simple presence of an indoor swimming pool. This shift reflects a growing consumer focus on health and well-being, drawing inspiration from both ancient relaxation traditions and modern scientific advancements. The global wellness industry, valued at an estimated $3.7 trillion annually, underscores the significant interest in such offerings. Manufacturers and designers in the high-end spa sector are responding to this demand by blending technological innovation with established wellness practices to create ultimate bespoke vitality experiences. A notable example of this trend is observed in properties like Cromlix House, acquired by Scottish tennis star Andy Murray. Following its refurbishment in 2014 into a five-star hotel, Murray further announced expansion plans in 2017 to include an athlete’s gym and state-of-the-art spa treatment rooms featuring designer bio-saunas, Russian banyas, and aquarium walls. This illustrates how even commercial luxury properties are adopting and promoting these comprehensive wellness amenities. Aqua Platinum, a prominent company specializing in high-end swimming pool design and construction, highlights the evolution of consumer preferences. They emphasize that homeowners are no longer content with just an indoor pool but seek a full suite of spa facilities, including saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, and specialized massage jets. This demand is driven by a more educated consumer base that understands the value of wellness and seeks to integrate both historical and contemporary approaches to health into their daily lives. Saunas, a centuries-old Finnish tradition, are a prime example of this blend. While traditional models remain popular, there is an increasing interest in cooler, wetter bio-saunas and Russian-style banyas. The practice of combining a hot sauna with an immediate cold plunge pool (5-10°C), a technique similar to traditional Japanese Onsen, is gaining traction for its perceived benefits to muscles and blood flow, a concept often endorsed by elite athletes like Jessica Ennis-Hill and Andy Murray. This demonstrates a cross-cultural synthesis in wellness practices, combining treatments for maximum efficacy. The aesthetic of these home spas also marries the traditional with the modern. Natural materials like wood and stone are often combined with sleek, contemporary features. Soft lighting, concealed benches, and fibre optics mimicking starry skies (similar to those found in luxury automobiles like Rolls-Royce) create a serene ambiance. A particularly popular modern design element is the aquarium wall, which, supported by research suggesting its anxiety-reducing benefits, blends ancient relaxation knowledge with contemporary visual appeal. As the high-end home spa market continues to expand, the range of available facilities and treatments diversifies, establishing the luxury home spa as a new, comprehensive status symbol focused on holistic well-being. #LuxuryHomeSpa #HomeWellness #LuxuryHomeDesign #SpaTrends #InteriorDesign #BioSaunas #PlungePools #WellnessIndustry #AquaPlatinum

The article highlights eight exceptional fireplaces located in various ski resort hotels and lodges, offering them as perfect gathering spots for après-ski activities or for those seeking a cozy retreat. These fireplaces are presented as quintessential elements of a ski vacation experience, providing warmth and atmosphere. Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid, N.Y., is featured for its grand Kanu dining room, which boasts massive stone hearths crafted with hand-hewn log beams and granite, reflecting the rustic-luxe spirit of Adirondack Great Camps. The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch in Beaver Creek, Colo., showcases a three-story stone hearth in its Great Room, serving as an anchor for the bar area where guests can enjoy drinks, appetizers, and live music. The Chedi Andermatt in Switzerland is recognized for its dramatic entryway hearth, adorned with wood-carved antlers, functioning as a popular après spot for drinks and light cuisine. The Lodge at Whitefish Lake in Whitefish, Mont., offers a double-sided hearth in its lobby, complete with an authentic moose head, providing a comfortable space for reading or enjoying cocktails in a setting that embodies a national park vibe. Sebastian Vail in Vail, Colo., is noted for its modern and sleek black steel hearth with an artsy, stacked-wood design, situated in an airy, light-stone lobby with a vaulted atrium. The St. Regis Deer Valley in Deer Valley, Utah, provides both a 40-foot-long outdoor fire garden and a massive, two-sided lobby fireplace, accommodating various preferences for warmth and relaxation. Tamarack Lodge at Mammoth Mountain, Calif., is described as offering a more intimate, living-room style hearth, reflecting a log cabin sensibility for guests seeking a quieter ambiance. Lastly, The Viceroy in Snowmass, Colo., presents a modern and artistic take on the ski-lodge fireplace in its lobby lounge, inviting guests to unwind with a book or socialize over cocktails and light fare. Each location's fireplace is presented as a distinct feature contributing to the overall charm and comfort of the resort. #SkiCountry #LuxuryLodges #FireplaceDesign #SkiVacation #AprèsSki #ResortHotels #MountainGetaway #InteriorDesign #CozyRetreats

The final high-rise tower at Bonita Bay, named Omega, signifies the last residential building to be constructed within the Bonita Bay community. The tower, a project by The Ronto Group, is designed to offer a luxurious high-rise living experience with a nautical aesthetic, reflecting its location adjacent to the Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve. Omega has set new records for price-per-square-foot in Bonita Bay, with a limited number of residences remaining, starting at $4.25 million. Scheduled for completion in late 2022, the 27-story building features 67 units. The design philosophy behind Omega focuses on providing residents with the spaciousness of single-family homes combined with the convenience and amenities of high-rise living. With only three residences per floor, the units are generously sized, none being smaller than 4,210 square feet. The residences offer expansive views, with west-facing units overlooking Estero Bay and the Gulf, and eastern units providing golf course vistas. The interiors are equipped with high-end appliances from brands like Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Miele, along with Dornbracht fixtures, and feature large-format tile flooring that mimics wood or stone. Buyers have significant customization options, including the ability to incorporate premium materials like Italian marble or reconfigure living spaces, provided these changes do not impact structural integrity or construction timelines. Beyond individual residences, Omega boasts an array of resort-style amenities. These include a swimming pool with private cabanas, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness center, a theater, a billiard room, and a library. The common areas, conceptualized by Beasley & Henley of Naples, exude a sophisticated yet playful coastal Caribbean theme, characterized by the integration of teak elements, and white and gold accents. The architectural curves of the building are echoed in the interior design, with sinuous and sculptural details incorporated into social spaces and the fitness center. Residents of Omega also benefit from access to the broader Bonita Bay community's facilities, which include five golf courses, a marina, a private spa, a private beach club, and various dining establishments. The project aims to leave a lasting impression as the last development within Bonita Bay. The article also highlights a private home spa, known as a "Spa Casita," designed by John Cooney of Stofft Cooney Architects for Radka and David Mogull's family home in Naples. This standalone structure, mirroring the main house's tropical modern architecture, was a key priority for the homeowners. Interior designer Wilfredo Emanuel created a minimalist spa environment, incorporating elements inspired by the couple's international travels. The spa features a glass-enclosed steam sauna with cedar wood interiors, alongside an adjacent cold plunge pool. The design integrates a smooth stone sink basin perched on a Brazilian zebrawood vanity, complemented by built-in storage to maintain a clutter-free space. Adjoining the wet areas, a flexible space with wood floors and a mirrored wall serves multiple purposes, from a yoga sanctuary to a practice area for ballroom dancing. This versatile room, described as a "little gem," can also function as a guest casita. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide views of the resort-like poolscape and backyard. The spa building is connected to the main house through a private courtyard, designed by Christian Andrea of Architectural Land Design. This courtyard, accessible from the primary suite, features lush greenery, black stones, a hot tub, a two-seater lounge, and a bartop table, creating a secluded oasis for relaxation and unwinding. #LuxuryLiving #HighRiseDesign #SpaDesign #ZenOasis #BonitaBay #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #CustomHomes #WellnessLifestyle

Swiss architecture studio Frundgallina undertook a comprehensive renovation of a small, dilapidated chalet situated in the Swiss Jura Mountains, transforming it into an off-grid, modern home. Due to local regulations that prohibit invasive construction on the site, the architects maintained the original exterior dimensions of the structure. However, they implemented a revolutionary approach to the interior layout to maximize engagement with the natural surroundings. The interior was ingeniously divided into four sections, each approximately 86 square feet. These sections were deliberately set at varying heights to ensure seamless access from the exterior and to facilitate continuous views of the natural landscape from all areas within the chalet. This unique spatial arrangement resulted in a rich and varied interior, characterized by differing floor-to-ceiling heights. The design creates an effect of large steps spiraling around a central axis. Three of the four floors feature two distinct levels, culminating in a total of seven specific spaces within the compact structure. The varying heights and spatial divisions create a series of interconnected 'rooms' linked by thresholds of different sizes, allowing for an engaging, spiral stroll throughout the chalet. This configuration provides a playful and dynamic interior experience. The team at Frundgallina also designed the chalet to be 100 percent energy efficient, emphasizing sustainable practices in its overhaul. The exterior features a single sheet of folded stainless steel for the roof, which incorporates a gutter system for rainwater harvesting. Each of the chalet's four sides is punctuated by a large pitched-top door and a smaller pitched-top window. These gabled openings create the impression of eight smaller houses cut into the sides of the larger structure, hinting at the unusual and quirky interior arrangement. The construction explores several key architectural themes for Frundgallina, including simplicity and homogeneity of shapes, spatial richness and variety, uniformity and expressive singularity, and an overall sense of calmness, softness, and lightness derived from the formal composition. The chalet's design challenges traditional notions of entry, as it does not have a singular specific address or entrance. Instead, it benefits from four distinct entry points, allowing most rooms to be accessed directly from the outdoors and integrating the surrounding pastures as part of the spatial sequence. The chalet is built entirely from Jura forest Fir wood planks, which are vertically nailed to the framework and interior walls, with grooved and ridged versions used for the ceiling and floors. #SwissChalet #ChaletRenovation #OffGridLiving #ModernHomeDesign #Frundgallina #SustainableArchitecture #JuraMountains #InteriorDesign #SpatialVariety

Le Coucou is a new ski-in/ski-out hotel in Méribel, France, designed by Paris-based interior architect Pierre Yovanovitch. The hotel is gently terraced into a meringue-white slope, spanning ten cascading levels. It features 55 rooms, suites, and chalets, each offering a sense of expanding space due to high-ceilinged interiors lined in blond timber. The design incorporates alpine-lite furnishings, customized furniture, and antique cuckoo clocks, creating a unique aesthetic. The hotel takes full advantage of its panoramic views of Belvedere’s snowy peaks through floor-to-ceiling windows, visible from every vantage point, including the cloistered lap pool. The interiors are meticulously crafted to blend modern luxury with a cozy, alpine feel. The blond timber lining contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere, while the customized furniture pieces reflect Yovanovitch's distinctive style. The inclusion of antique cuckoo clocks adds a touch of whimsical charm and local character, subtly referencing the alpine setting. The thoughtful placement of windows ensures that the stunning natural surroundings are an integral part of the guest experience, blurring the lines between indoor comfort and outdoor majesty. Beyond its luxurious accommodations, Le Coucou offers an array of amenities designed for relaxation and indulgence. The Tata Harper spa provides a serene environment for treatments such as lomi lomi massages, with its mood-lit ambiance enhancing the sense of tranquility. For dining, guests have two distinct options: the Beefbar, which specializes in sizzling Kobe beef teppanyaki, and Bianca Neve, an Italian-themed restaurant serving charcuterie and grilled Chilean seabass. These culinary offerings cater to diverse palates, ensuring a gourmet experience after a day on the slopes. The hotel's location is ideal for ski enthusiasts, offering direct ski-in/ski-out access, making it incredibly convenient for guests to access the slopes. The architecture seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape, with rugged stone walls complementing the pristine white of the snow-covered mountains. The design choices prioritize comfort, elegance, and a deep connection to the alpine environment, establishing Le Coucou as a premier destination for those seeking a luxurious and well-appointed retreat in the French Alps. The overall design philosophy emphasizes natural materials, expansive views, and bespoke elements, creating an unforgettable stay. #LuxuryHotel #SkiResort #MéribelFrance #PierreYovanovitch #InteriorDesign #AlpineArchitecture #BespokeFurniture #SpaExperience #GourmetDining

This article presents a virtual tour of 16 distinct ski cabins, each offering a unique design approach and integration with its natural surroundings. The selection highlights diverse architectural styles, from traditional chalets to modern, energy-efficient structures, across various snowy landscapes in North America and Europe. The first featured cabin, Nooq House in Whitefish, Montana, designed by Montana Creative architecture + design, showcases Scandinavian influences with its gabled sections, suspended fireplace, cathedral ceilings, and expansive windows that frame the Rocky Mountains. Owners Alex Strohl and Andrea Dabene offer it for rent while working on another project. Following this, the Alpine Noir chalet in Mount Hood, Oregon, conceived by Casework, Keystone Architecture Planning & Project Management, and Ethan Beck Homes, draws inspiration from Amsterdam canal houses with its tall, skinny silhouette and custom soft black facade. The interior features a reverse layout with the living space at the top, emphasizing a "gezellig" (cozy) atmosphere with a black brick fireplace, fur throws, and a bespoke floral sectional. In Andermatt, Switzerland, Nossenhaus, a 17th-century cottage, underwent a revival by Jonathan Tuckey Design and Ruedi Kreienbühl. The renovation removed newer additions, restoring its original character while incorporating modern elements like an energy-efficient wood-tiled roof and larch planking. The Gilbert House near Whistler and Blackcomb ski areas in British Columbia, by Evoke International Design, features a vertical layout on a steep site, clad in concrete and matte black cedar. Its bright interiors, with pale oak planks, direct focus to the forest views through floor-to-ceiling windows, complemented by a cantilevered upper floor with a terrace. La Cabin Ride & Sleep, an A-Frame in Lac-Beauport, Québec, designed by Marie-Catherine P. Émond of M4 Architecture, is a 256-square-foot structure built by Nick Dignard. It features abundant natural light, window openings on the roof, and custom-built furniture. Next, the Skigard Hytte near Lillehammer, Norway, by Mork Ulnes Architects, is an unconventional log cabin using "skigard" split-rail construction. It is raised on columns, has a sod and grass roof, an oculus skylight, and a pine interior. The Lookout House near Lake Tahoe, California, by Faulkner Architects, is a contemporary cabin on a steep slope. It boasts a fire-resistant steel plate roof, insulated concrete walls, radiant-heated basalt floors, and a red-tinted glass column, creating a modern aesthetic with an American Southwest influence. Another British Columbia entry is the Solo House, an off-grid Passive House designed by Perkins & Will, intended as a pilot for an eco-friendly alpine settlement. It incorporates a steel roof, solar panels, wool-insulated walls, and locally harvested Douglas fir interiors. The Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel in Monthey, Switzerland, by Montalba Architects, offers prefabricated larch-clad chalets alongside geodesic domes. These low-impact structures are energy self-sufficient, featuring polished concrete flooring and distinct day and night zones. The Little Black House in Fayston, Vermont, designed by Elizabeth Herrmann Architecture + Design, is a compact 1,120-square-foot cabin near Sugarbush. Its black-stained exterior contrasts with a stripped-down interior of white walls and pale wood floors, utilizing local ash wood and large windows. In Québec, the Poisson Blanc cabin by Naturehumaine Architects is a monochrome, compact structure embedded on a slope, with white walls and ceilings and maple veneer, raw concrete, and ceramic tile accents. The Ejford Cabin on Hallvardøy Island, Norway, by Snorre Stinessen Architecture, features triple-glazed glass walls, capitalizing on passive solar conditions and thick insulation. It comprises two volumes, one for living and one for sleeping and a sauna, offering views of the fjord and mountains. The Z House in Camporosso, Italy, by GEZA, is a holiday home on a steep hilltop, featuring two interconnected concrete and wood-screened gable volumes that step down the slope, blending with the alpine vernacular. The interior utilizes Serizzo white granite, dark gray-painted European oak, and Swiss pine. A remodeled 1960s Swiss chalet by Frundgallina in the Swiss Jura Mountains is a 100% energy-efficient cabin with vertically laid fir planks and a folded stainless steel roof, characterized by four distinct entrances and integrating the outdoors. Finally, the Lake Cottage in Ontario, Canada, by UUFIE Architects, is a reinterpreted tree house with a steeply pitched, charred cedar-clad structure and a black steel roof. It features whimsical interior elements like a wood-burning fireplace with a house-shaped surround, a maple log staircase, and partially mirrored glass walls for camouflage and expansive views. #SkiCabins #ModernArchitecture #SustainableDesign #MountainHomes #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #WinterRetreats #PrefabHomes #PassiveHouse

The article details the creation of a modern Swiss chalet in Celerina, a historic village in the Engadin region of the eastern Swiss Alps, for a Milan-based family. Emanuela Bozzi de Brabant and her husband, Matteo de Brabant, along with architect Matteo Tartufoli of M2P Studio, embarked on this project in an area where Bozzi de Brabant had spent her childhood. After Switzerland eased property ownership rules for foreigners in 2018, the family purchased an older house, eventually deciding to demolish and rebuild rather than renovate, as both options presented similar costs. The design philosophy for the new chalet was to blend traditional Engadin architectural elements with a modern, minimalist aesthetic. Bozzi de Brabant and Tartufoli conducted extensive research into local architecture, incorporating features like slightly sloped walls to manage snow accumulation and smaller windows, typical of the region's older structures, rather than expansive glass. They meticulously studied and measured traditional buildings to ensure the new chalet's proportions were authentic. A significant inspiration was architect Hans-Jörg Ruch, known for integrating modern sensibilities into Engadin farmhouses, aiming for a home that feels both ancient and contemporary. The construction process involved two years of ideation and three years of building, culminating in the chalet's completion in April 2022. The exterior, painted in a winter-white, features wooden slats on upper-floor windows, subtly referencing local stables. Wooden elements were used sparingly, differentiating it from typical mountain chalets. A traditional ornamental technique called sgraffito, involving decorative etchings framing the windows, was meticulously applied by skilled artisans, contributing significantly to the building's atmosphere. Inside, the approximately 3,400-square-foot chalet spans four levels. The entrance, a favorite of Bozzi de Brabant, features a unique risciu-stone floor, a material typically used outdoors in the Engadin, which she discovered and sourced herself. A skylight illuminates the foyer, leading to a personalized artwork of an Engadin map. A central, floating fireplace divides the living and dining rooms, designed by Tartufoli to create a sense of discovery within the home. The main floor also includes a custom matte-black Boffi kitchen and a sculptural fabric lamp over the dining table. The upper floors house five of the seven bedrooms and four of the six and a half bathrooms. The staircase design transitions from wood to metal mesh, allowing natural light from an overhead skylight to cascade down to the main floor, a recurring motif throughout the home, also seen in a bathroom shower. The lower levels are dedicated to leisure, featuring a sauna, a small indoor swimming pool, and a billiards room (dubbed the "dancing room"). A private forest-like garden shields the pool area, blooming in spring and summer. Materiality was a key focus, with natural elements like stone and custom-designed Spanish cedar wardrobes. The project involved close collaboration between the homeowners and M2P Studio, with Bozzi de Brabant taking an active role in sourcing interiors. Art and furnishings were chosen selectively to emphasize the chalet's architecture and richly painted, textured walls, which Bozzi de Brabant considers an artistic highlight. Notable additions include an antique dining room cabinet, paintings by Giovanni Frangi, and a vibrant blue wolf sculpture by Cracking Art in the garden. Iconic Ingo Maurer lamps were also integrated. The home is utilized year-round, accommodating family and friends, fulfilling the architect's goal of creating a beloved and functional space. #SwissChalet #ModernArchitecture #EngadinDesign #HomeDesign #MinimalistInteriors #LuxuryHomes #M2PStudio #MatteoTartufoli #EmanuelaBozziDeBrabant

This article highlights the Kitzbühel Chalet, a modernist holiday rental situated at the base of the Kitzbühel Alps in Austria's Tyrol region. The chalet provides a peaceful escape, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings of forest and mountain. The interior design, meticulously curated by the owner in collaboration with design studio Holzrausch, focuses on a minimalist aesthetic. This approach emphasizes natural materials, particularly wood and stone, creating a harmonious and understated living space. The chalet's design prioritizes the breathtaking alpine views, featuring extensive banks of windows that frame the landscape. A wraparound balcony further enhances the connection to the outdoors, allowing guests to fully appreciate the scenery. The property offers comfortable accommodations, including three bedrooms, with a wood-paneled reading nook providing additional sleeping arrangements for two. Modern amenities are integrated for comfort and entertainment, such as a home cinema and a spa area complete with a sauna. Beyond its interior comforts, the Kitzbühel Chalet is strategically located for both winter and summer activities. It is a mere ten-minute drive from ski lifts, making it convenient for winter sports enthusiasts. During milder weather, the chalet serves as an ideal base for exploring a comprehensive network of hiking and cycling trails. The article positions the chalet as a perfect blend of modern design, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure, available for rent starting at €1,500 per night through Welcome Beyond. #KitzbühelChalet #AlpineMinimalism #AustriaTravel #ModernistArchitecture #HolzrauschDesign #LuxuryChalet #TyrolRegion #HolidayRental

This article details the creation of a unique resort-style home in Bali for Alexander Jovanovic, designed by the A2Kreasitama (A2K) team. The project addressed the challenge of an irregularly shaped plot of land, which ultimately inspired the central octagonal foyer, serving as a functional meeting point and a symbolic compass for the house. The design aimed to merge the characteristics of a resort villa, emphasizing natural airflow, with the functionality of a traditional home where spaces could be fully enclosed. To achieve this dual functionality, the A2K team incorporated aluminum glass doors that can be fully opened to allow natural ventilation while also being tightly sealed to prevent insect intrusion. Strategic placement and height of the house were crucial in maximizing natural airflow, effectively eliminating the need for air conditioning. The home's location in Dreamland – Pecatu, Bali, allowed for the integration of Balinese contemporary design elements, starting with intricate wooden carvings at the main entrance. The octagonal foyer, inspired by Taoist cosmology, was intended to bring balance and stability to the irregular landform. The interior of the foyer features white granite tile floors, a sleek console table with a painting, and a contemporary chandelier above a central round table. From the foyer, access is provided to two bedrooms through oversized solid wood doors, and a glass door opens to the swimming pool. The guest bedroom is situated to the left, adjacent to a staircase leading to the upper floors, while the master bedroom on the right offers direct access to a green-stone swimming pool and a private wooden parquet patio. The master suite includes a walk-in closet connecting to a Balinese semi-outdoor bathroom, which features a freestanding bathtub, a solid wall finish, and a stonescape garden, enhancing the private resort-like ambiance. An outdoor whirlpool is located between the master bedroom and the main pool. The guest bedroom also has an open terrace for entertaining or enjoying sunsets, and its bathroom is equipped with a glass wall shower and a small garden leading to the swimming pool. All bedrooms are finished with wooden parquet floors and adorned with solid wood and natural stone accents. An eye-catching contemporary staircase, constructed from steel and solid wood with frameless glass railings, leads to the upper levels. A high synthetic rattan ceiling above the staircase not only serves as an aesthetic feature but also demonstrates a clever use of local materials. The living and dining areas are uniquely positioned on the upper floor to offer magnificent views during daily activities, cultivating a recreational, resort, and tropical atmosphere. The living room, encased by transparent glass doors and solid wood columns, is a focal point of the house. It includes a solid wood dining table with an integrated teppanyaki-style stove for entertaining. Above the dining room, an attic serves as a relaxing space and provides access to a rooftop with panoramic views of Jimbaran Bay and the airport runway, ideal for social gatherings. The lower ground level accommodates a service area, laundry room, and a spacious garage with a carport that can function as a versatile multi-purpose space. Given the owner's background in the hospitality business, the A2K team meticulously designed the home to offer luxurious comfort and a distinct resort feel. The public and private areas are clearly delineated, and the designer used scale effectively to maximize space and apply hospitality industry standards to a private residence. For example, the octagonal foyer's atrium was designed to be larger than typical for a home of its size. The innovative design on the 505 sqm plot successfully integrated various functions to cater to the owner's lifestyle, resulting in a truly unique resort-style home. #ArchitectureInterior #ResortStyleHome #BaliDesign #A2Kreasitama #SustainableDesign #BalineseContemporary #LuxuryLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation

Katharine Pooley Limited (KPL) has designed a luxurious home-gym, fitness, and relaxation space that combines elegance with functionality. This unique area is intended for cardiovascular workouts, weight training, yoga, and swimming, demonstrating that fitness and luxury are not mutually exclusive. The design draws inspiration from five-star hotel indoor pools and gymnasiums in Asia and Europe, aiming to create a cohesive aesthetic that complements both the external and internal architecture of a private villa or home with views. The core philosophy behind the design emphasizes a balance between timeless luxury and intelligent design, a key aspiration for KPL. The project incorporates contemporary trends, including multi-functional spaces and the sophisticated application of glamorous finishes. Pooley highlights the use of materials such as cleanly veined marbles, polished plasters, poured resins, and organic textures like sand plaster timbers and cast bronze. These material choices contribute to a chic, minimal aesthetic. The design pays meticulous attention to detail, impacting both the visual appeal and practical utility of the space. For instance, the high-end sprung flooring features a timber-look plank design with integrated matting and bronze trims. Light timber veneered joinery is custom-designed to offer flexibility, allowing gym accessories to be either prominently displayed with LED lighting strips or discreetly stored to maintain a sleek appearance. Technological integration is a significant aspect of the design, with walls adorned with tall mirrored panels, bronze trims, and state-of-the-art televisions and sound systems. The lighting scheme is carefully considered to provide consistent yet functional soft illumination. This is achieved through a variety of high-specification LED lighting units, strips, niche lighting, and directional lighting, creating a curated system that offers flexibility and diverse light settings. The pool hall area also includes a jacuzzi and a plunge pool, further enhancing the relaxation aspect of the space. The overall concept underscores a growing demand for luxury home environments that cater comprehensively to wellness, fitness, and relaxation, all within a sophisticated and intelligently designed setting. #LuxuryHomeGym #KatharinePooley #InteriorDesign #FitnessSpace #WellnessDesign #SmartHome #ArchitecturalDesign #MaterialSelection #LuxuryLifestyle

The Brecon, a newly opened design hotel in the Swiss mountain village of Adelboden, offers a unique blend of understated luxury and local charm, moving away from the typical glitz of other Alpine destinations. Located in a tranquil, bucolic valley, the hotel provides a serene escape with world-class winter sports, hearty food, and cozy evenings. Upon arrival, visitors navigate a scenic mountain pass before the picturesque setting, reminiscent of a scene from 'Heidi,' unfolds. The village itself, with its 15th-century church and chalet-style cafes, maintains a laid-back atmosphere, a stark contrast to the luxury shopping and Champagne-fueled après-ski found in nearby Gstaad. Designed by the Dutch interior design studio Nicemakers, The Brecon's open-plan ground floor, dubbed the "living room," showcases a muted mid-century chic aesthetic. It features Jean Gillon lounge chairs, boucle Vitra sofas, and Futurist-inspired abstract paintings curated by Amsterdam's Bisou Gallery. Shelves adorned with design and fashion monographs contribute to the sophisticated yet inviting ambiance. The hotel's owner, Welsh financier Grant Maunder, aimed to create an interior deeply rooted in a sense of place, incorporating elements like reupholstered antique dining chairs from the building's previous occupant and flagstone floors installed by a Welsh specialist. The hotel's name itself, "The Brecon," pays homage to a mountain range in south Wales, reflecting this commitment to its origins. Maunder's vision was for guests to feel completely at ease, akin to staying in a generous friend's home rather than a conventional hotel. This objective has been successfully achieved, with guests experiencing a seamless check-in process and finding comfort in the thoughtfully designed rooms. The loft-style top-floor suites boast enormous, plush beds covered in patterned Welsh lambswool blankets, offering stunning views of the jagged mountain peaks. Special nooks with desks and small windows provide ideal spots for relaxation or catching up on emails. Even the bathrooms are meticulously designed, featuring salmon-pink tiles, sleek circular mirrors, and lavish Aesop products, offering a luxurious and visually appealing experience for design enthusiasts. Dining at The Brecon is an all-inclusive yet sophisticated affair, eschewing buffets for a curated culinary journey through Alpine cuisine. The focus is on seasonal, local produce, starting with freshly baked bread and rich local butter, followed by a four-course meal. Dishes might include smoked salmon with pickled cucumbers, hand-twisted farfalle with Italian sausage and fennel, and perfectly cooked veal with salsa verde. The tiramisu is highlighted as a must-try dessert. The hotel’s bar, stocked with an impressive selection, invites guests to enjoy cocktails on the outdoor deck or within the convivial indoor spaces, fostering conversation and camaraderie. Beyond the hotel, the Adelboden area offers rich rewards for adventurous travelers, with the Brecon team providing recommendations for exploration. The hotel operates year-round, making it suitable for both summer "coolcations" and winter sports enthusiasts, with access to numerous ski routes. A notable highlight is Oeschinensee, an Alpine lake known for its dazzling lapis lazuli blue mineral-rich waters, perfect for hiking or rowboating. The hotel also features a spa with an outdoor heated pool, sauna, and steam room, all offering views across the valley, ensuring guests can unwind and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings. The Brecon is poised to attract a new type of discerning traveler, coexisting with the existing crowd of hikers, skiers, and lake swimmers, and is anticipated to become a favored weekend getaway for fashion and design enthusiasts from cities like Milan. #SwissAlps #Adelboden #LuxuryHotel #BoutiqueHotel #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyModern #AlpineCuisine #TravelSwitzerland #WellnessTravel

Marie Turner Carson of M. Elle Design and architect Bob White of Forest Studio collaborated to create a unique family getaway at Victory Ranch, near Deer Valley, Utah. The clients desired a "family camp" atmosphere, which was interpreted not as a rustic, traditional lodge, but as a luxurious yet comfortable design focusing on community, activities, and nature. The home's unconventional layout diverges from a typical lodge, featuring guest rooms designed as individual "cabins" to accommodate a multi-generational family and their guests. White's design emphasizes breaking down the traditional "big box" lodge into a compound of structures that integrate with the rolling landscape and are arranged around connecting courtyards. This innovative approach optimizes views while ensuring privacy and a continuous sense of discovery throughout the property. White conducted space planning on-site to frame views perfectly and envisioned the new build as a historic home that evolved over generations, bringing an authentic feel to the design. The collaboration with local builder Ivan Broman resulted in a structure that serves as an ideal backdrop for family gatherings, allowing everyone to feel at home with their own space, while also incorporating inventive and thoughtful details. The main entry of the house offers an intimate feel with a lower ceiling, providing a glimpse into a central courtyard rather than a dramatic, expansive entrance. This design choice encourages exploration and a gradual appreciation of the home's features. The living room, a central and open area, is anchored by a monumental plaster fireplace, which provides a visual anchor amidst painted boards. Steel elements like a sculptural wood wall and door casings balance the room. From the living room, residents can enjoy views of the river and a courtyard with a fire pit, creating a sense of connection to the outdoors. To enhance coziness, the living room features layered wool rugs and various textures in its furnishings, arranged in two sections for versatile seating. The dining room, notably dark and dramatic, is positioned on a cantilevered hallway that acts as a bridge connecting different areas of the house. This unique placement offers a slightly disorienting yet engaging experience, constantly relating to the exterior landscape. An outdoor dining area complements the interior, featuring a custom-made table large enough to seat at least 16 guests, mirroring the indoor dining capacity with flexible seating options. The kitchen is strategically located at the furthest point of the house to maximize views, offering a 180-degree panorama. Inspired by Edwin Lutyens' designs, it includes a round island and cabinetry that reinterpret Alpine style. Beyond the primary living spaces, the home includes a bar with reclaimed wine barrels and walnut panels for guests to carve their names, and a basement speakeasy, embracing a cozy, wood-clad Alpine aesthetic. The main bedroom offers serenity with a muted palette and stone walls that seamlessly blend the interior with the surrounding environment. For younger guests, there are tastefully designed bunkrooms, one with rush beds for girls and another with cot-like beds and canvas curtains for boys, evoking a summer camp feel. The design team meticulously sourced items like vintage trunks to complete the authentic, yet refined, camp aesthetic, ensuring every detail contributes to the overall theme of a luxurious and comfortable family retreat. #FamilyGetaway #LuxuryDesign #MountainHome #UtahArchitecture #MElleDesign #ForestStudio #CustomHome #InteriorDesign #AlpineStyle

A newly constructed, three-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom estate in Sonoma, located just minutes from the historic plaza, is currently listed for $11.5 million. This 5,200-square-foot residence, situated within a vineyard, features a contemporary, open-concept layout that is bathed in natural light. The interior design emphasizes a restrained modern aesthetic, utilizing exquisite materials such as classic marbles and wide wood planks in a palette of mostly whites and natural wood tones. Walls of windows throughout the home create a seamless visual connection to the surrounding outdoor environment. The property is designed with a series of patios and meticulously maintained landscaping, alongside a sparkling swimming pool. The pool is adorned with tiles in various shades of blue, adding a subtle touch of color to the exterior. Completing the outdoor living experience are two covered seating areas, one of which includes an outdoor television, and a separate guesthouse with one bedroom and one bathroom. These structures are arranged in a modular fashion around the yard. The landscaping features low-water grasses, thoughtfully arranged in a dotted pattern that mirrors the orderly rows of the adjacent vineyard. This harmonious design integrates the estate with its picturesque wine country setting, offering a luxurious and visually cohesive living space. #SonomaEstate #VineyardProperty #LuxuryRealEstate #ModernHomeDesign #OpenConceptLiving #OutdoorLivingSpaces #Guesthouse #WineCountryProperty #HighEndFinishes

This article showcases five holiday homes, each featuring a unique infinity pool design, located across various picturesque regions, offering a luxurious escape and an immersive experience with nature. Infinity pools are highlighted as an ideal way to combat summer heat, creating an illusion of boundless space and tranquility by seamlessly merging with the surrounding landscape. The first featured property is an eco-conscious home in Kerala, named 'Malhar.' This weekend retreat, designed by architect Vivek PP of De Earth, is situated on a six-acre plot near Payyannur, Kannur. The owners, originally from Bengaluru, envision making this their permanent residence. The home features a cobbled pathway leading to a foyer, and an open-to-sky infinity pool, surrounded by areca palm trees, is central to a courtyard. The pool provides expansive views of nearby plantations, fulfilling the owners' desire for a lush, green environment integrated with music. Next is a second-generation summer home in Ahmedabad, a project by Rushi Shah and Vidisha Shah. This property is notable for its integration with the abundant trees on its verdant outskirts. Initially conceived as a standard two-bedroom dwelling, the design evolved to prioritize open spaces and a harmonious relationship with nature. The infinity pool at the front of the house is strategically positioned on a lawn slope, creating a stunning visual effect that allows inhabitants to fully appreciate the encompassing landscape, functioning as a viewing gallery. A lakeside home in Kamshet, Maharashtra, is also presented, owned by dance practitioner Avantika Bahl and consultant Avinash Goyal. This property, located on a unique lakeside parcel in the ghats, is described as extraordinary, with dancing grasses and a design that resonates with Bahl's artistic sensibilities. The home is characterized by a series of pavilions that offer increasingly spectacular lake views. Its design is intended to appear naturally integrated into the environment, featuring elements like colorful living room blocks that interact with sunlight and a half-moon shaped pool that mirrors the lake, creating a celestial impression. The fourth property is a coffee estate in Coorg, converted into a vacation home by Studio 4A co-founders Vijay Narayanan and Appachu Nanjappa. This 4,000-square-foot, single-story, gable-roofed house is set amidst a coffee estate with distant views of elk hills, and its structure is subtly integrated into the elevated terrain. The architects emphasized celebrating the natural landscape and climate, incorporating tropical architectural elements such as long verandahs, courtyards, high ceilings, and folding doors. These features create interconnected outdoor spaces, including an exterior infinity swimming pool, stepped sunken seating, and a deck that extends from the living area. Finally, a blissful getaway in Karjat offers an elevated perspective of the hillside. This luxurious 8,000-square-foot, two-story abode, spanning over six acres, includes a garden, swimming pool, and gaming room, all enveloped by lush greenery. Amritha Karnakar, principal architect at AKAD, designed the interiors to be minimal, ensuring that the focus remains on the undulating hillside views and the tranquil Kalote lake. An infinity pool on the ground floor deck, complemented by sunbeds, allows residents to immerse themselves in the green vistas, making it an ideal weekend retreat from the urban bustle of Mumbai. #HolidayHomes #InfinityPools #LuxuryTravel #ArchitecturalDesign #EcoConsciousHomes #LakesideProperties #CoffeeEstateHomes #ModernAesthetic

The new Club Med Tomamu, a ski-in ski-out resort located on Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, features a visually striking design that harmonizes modern elements with traditional aesthetics and alpine-inspired interiors. World-class designer Jean-Philippe Nuel drew inspiration from the surrounding natural environment, incorporating genuine winter-white birch and spring bloom garlands into the resort's foyer. The 341-room property is characterized by a vibrant color palette, including reds, blues, calming greens, rich brown timbers, and splashes of yellow, all coexisting to create a restful and relaxing atmosphere for guests. Jean-Philippe Nuel emphasizes the uniqueness of the resort's natural setting, which heavily influenced its interior design. The design philosophy behind Club Med Tomamu aimed to create an edgy interior that aligns with the brand's reputation for upbeat, friendly, all-inclusive premium holiday experiences. The result is a collection of funky furnishings and traditional Japanese design elements that are both eye-catching and comfortable, prompting guests to consider incorporating similar styles into their own homes. The main bar and lounge areas offer plush armchairs and luxurious upholstered daybeds, positioned to provide panoramic views of Tomamu's main slopes through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. A notable design feature is a floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall Japanese-style bookshelf at one end of the bar, further enhancing the blend of culture and nature within the resort. Nuel highlights the successful fusion of Club Med's energetic culture with the surrounding natural beauty and local traditions, achieving an elegant and purposeful design. The resort's main dining areas are adorned with rich colors and patterns that evoke the four seasons, while the buffet room is designed to mimic the lively ambiance of an Asian night market, complete with rich red countertops and wicker lightshades illuminating dessert displays. The guest rooms and suites are styled to resemble those found in a boutique city hotel or apartment, featuring royal blue bedspreads, luxe gold throws, and floral rugs with red and orange accents. These vibrant colors are balanced by muted forest green couches and dark timber joinery, which thoughtfully frame the snowy winter landscape outside. Since its opening on December 17 last year, Club Med Tomamu has consistently operated at near-full capacity, largely attracting Australian holiday-makers. #Contemporary #Family #InternationalTravel #LuxuryResort #JapaneseDesign #AlpineInteriors #Hokkaido #SkiResort #InteriorDesign

This article delves into the holiday home of prominent gallerists Kadee Robbins, director of the Michael Werner Gallery in London, and Stefan Ratibor, director of the Gagosian in London. Their residence is a 17th-century baroque manor in the Danube valley, about half an hour from Vienna, Austria. The property, initially found and purchased by Ratibor in 2005, became a shared project and a labor of love after he and Robbins began their relationship. The manor was once owned by an "aged and reclusive opera singer" and had fallen into disrepair, described as being hidden in a forest and overrun with flora. With the assistance of architect Annabelle Selldorf, a friend of the couple known for her work on projects like the Frick Collection extension in New York, the manor underwent a comprehensive restoration. The renovation focused on removing clutter both inside and outside the structure and simplifying its layout to create a more relaxed and airy living space. The goal was to transform the historical property into a comfortable family home, suitable for the couple and their three young children. The family typically uses the home for holidays during Christmas, Easter, and a summer period. A central feature of the home is its extensive collection of contemporary art, carefully curated by Robbins and Ratibor. The collection includes pieces by artists they have collaborated with, befriended, or admired, such as Ed Ruscha, Peter Doig, Franz West, and Jeff Koons. Robbins emphasizes that this collection was assembled organically over time, rather than through a predefined grand plan. Despite the high value of the artworks, she maintains a pragmatic approach, acknowledging that the house is a living space for children. She notes that while the pieces are lovingly cared for, the family remains philosophical about potential wear and tear, joking about a Carsten Höller yellow rhino sculpture in the upstairs hall that has likely been sat upon by the children. The article highlights several specific artworks and design elements within the home. For instance, the master bedroom features a picture by American artist Aaron Young, created from motorcyclists driving across primed panels, leaving skid marks. This room also contains 1960s Italian chairs and a carpet from Azerbaijan. A photograph by Douglas Gordon is flanked by baroque chairs inherited from Ratibor’s great-aunt, with a 1960s French lamp. A neon artwork by Tracey Emin is displayed above a 19th-century sofa, which is a Ratibor family heirloom. The guest bedroom showcases works by Glenn Brown and Ed Ruscha, with an Iranian carpet and a chocolate velvet chaise longue from Robbins's previous life in New York. The first-floor sitting room includes sofas by 20th-century Italian designer Guglielmo Ulrich, a mirror by Jeff Koons, a sculpture by Franz West, and a painting by Adam McEwen, all set against an original mantelpiece. In the garden, there is a sculpture by the late Franz West, an Austrian artist and close friend of the owners. These details illustrate the blend of historical architecture, contemporary art, and personal touches that define the couple's unique holiday home. #HolidayHome #BaroqueManor #ContemporaryArt #InteriorDesign #AustrianArchitecture #ArtCollection #GalleristHome #AnnabelleSelldorf #FamilyHome

The home located at 3675 Gordon Drive in Naples exemplifies the result of combining patience with inspired design. This extensive renovation project, completed in June, took almost two years and was a collaborative effort between builder Knauf-Koenig Group and Bethany O’Neil Interior Design. Originally designed by architect Jeff Harrell in 2006, the property is situated on a secluded sandy cove, offering views of Champney Bay and a protected preserve. Spanning 7,873 square feet on a three-quarter-acre lot, the residence features six bedrooms, seven full bathrooms, two half baths, and a guest quarters. A nine-car garage is also part of the estate. A distinctive breezeway links the main house to a three-bedroom guest house, with each structure having its own attached garage. The property also includes a new boat dock equipped with a lift, providing direct access to the Gulf. The interior of the home is characterized by abundant natural light across its three levels, all offering water views. Attention to detail is evident throughout, with interior accents such as coral stone and beadboard walls, a tin ceiling, and a combination of hickory and marble floors. Custom built-ins and a double-sided fireplace further enhance the sophisticated design. The clean lines of the interior contribute to a sleek aesthetic. Communal and outdoor gathering areas are a central focus of the property, designed for entertaining and social interaction. Options for alfresco dining, an outdoor bar, a gourmet kitchen, and various water features create a resort-like atmosphere. Jordan Delaney, the listing agent with Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, describes the outdoor space as reminiscent of a tropical resort, complete with a koi pond, a swimming pool, and multiple terraces. The breezeway, a covered walkway, serves as an architectural highlight, connecting the main house through a gazebo to the guesthouse. Floor-length drapes in the gazebo add a stylish touch of island flair to this French West Indies-style retreat. Mature tropical vegetation and covered verandas surround the home, ensuring privacy. According to Jordan Delaney, the deep lot allows the house to be set back behind gates, with lush landscaping providing seclusion from street views and neighboring properties. An additional advantage for homeowners is immediate eligibility to join the private Port Royal Club, which grants access to its facilities and private beach. As of October, the home was listed at $31 million. Key features of the estate include coral stone walls, tin ceilings, hickory and marble floors, a separate guest house, a new dock, a resort-style exterior, and its rare location on a sandy plot overlooking Champney Bay. #HomeTour #LuxuryRealEstate #FrenchWestIndiesStyle #WaterfrontProperty #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving #NaplesRealEstate #ArchitecturalDesign #RenovationProject