This New, Laid-Back Design Hotel in the Swiss Alps Is a Year-Round Delight

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

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

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

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 San Francisco Proper, a luxury hotel located in the city's Mid-Market neighborhood, showcases the interior design prowess of Kelly Wearstler, often referred to as "the presiding grande dame of West Coast interior design" by The New Yorker. Wearstler was responsible for the interior public areas, restaurants, and guest rooms of the 131-room boutique hotel. The historic building, originally constructed in 1926 by architect Albert Pissis, features a facade of brick, stone, and terracotta. It was recently repurposed by the local firm Hornberger + Worstell into its current hotel iteration. Wearstler's design concept for the hotel revolves around a narrative of a bohemian woman. She envisioned the hotel as the home of this sophisticated individual, creating a series of living rooms that invite guests to linger in an eclectic, artful salon. This imaginative backstory adds a layer of character and intimacy to the hotel's ambiance, suggesting a sense of awaiting its intriguing inhabitant and her black cat, Charmaine. The aesthetic draws from various eras, blending contemporary sensibilities with old-world charm. Wearstler curated a collection of custom furniture, fabrics, lighting, and wallcoverings, complementing them with vintage pieces sourced from Paris, Milan, and San Francisco. This meticulous selection injects historical depth and a vibrant, modern feel into each space. The lobby salon exemplifies this approach, featuring unique artwork and furnishings arranged to evoke a residential setting. Art plays a significant role, with paintings by local artists such as Joe Ferriso and Jonathon Anzalone displayed prominently in the lobby. In the guest rooms, Wearstler’s innovative use of patterns is evident; she combines four different patterns to modernize classic designs, adding depth and dimension. She designed 32 original patterns exclusively for the hotel, drawing inspiration from vintage graphics across Europe. This diverse mix of textures and natural materials harmonizes with the original building's patina, introducing a touch of modern wit and comfort. The intimate dining room further showcases this fusion of styles, furnished with elements from an array of modernist designs. Throughout the hotel, thoughtful details abound. For instance, the bathrooms integrate different colored tiles on floors and walls for visual contrast. The guest rooms are distinguished by rich, warm oak floors, and some even feature stylish bunk beds, catering to families. Wearstler's overarching goal was to create an updated version of a European salon, a hotel that offers a residential atmosphere reminiscent of the comfortable, artful living spaces of the past. The San Francisco Proper stands as a testament to her vision, seamlessly marrying historical grandeur with a distinctly bohemian, contemporary spirit. #HotelDesign #InteriorDesign #BoutiqueHotel #SanFrancisco #KellyWearstler #BohemianStyle #VintageModern #LuxuryTravel #HospitalityDesign

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

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

Austrian architect Jakob Sprenger and designer Antonia Crespi undertook the transformation of the Monti restaurant within The Alpina Gstaad, a boutique hotel located in Gstaad, Switzerland. Their primary objective was to craft a contemporary design that pays homage to Gstaad's rich Alpine heritage. Sprenger articulated that the design aimed to meticulously consider every element to encapsulate the unique essence of Gstaad. The design team meticulously created all the furniture and fittings specifically for this fine dining establishment. Notable bespoke pieces include banquette seats upholstered in mohair and chairs featuring hand-carved 'skis' for legs, playfully echoing the alpine outdoor environment. This approach ensures that every detail contributes to the overall aesthetic and theme of the restaurant. The restaurant's interior extensively utilizes reclaimed antique pine wood for its walls and ceilings. This wood was carefully brushed and oiled by hand, a process that emphasizes its natural texture and contributes to the warm, rustic ambiance. In contrast to the natural wood, metal artisans skillfully hand-bent sheets of bronze and intricately wove them together to form a series of room dividers. These dividers are elegantly held in place by slender bronze frames, adding a touch of sophisticated craftsmanship to the space. The designers deliberately juxtaposed the robust textures of the woodwork and bronze screens with soft carpet flooring. The bespoke wool carpet, manufactured in Denmark, features a palette of gentle and warm hues that complement the overall interior. The carpet's design is particularly distinctive, incorporating abstract motifs of local flora and fauna, such as foxes, deer, squirrels, grouses, alpine flowers, pine twigs, nuts, and alpine herbs. These designs are subtly woven in contrasting threads, drawing inspiration from the traditional Swiss art of paper cutting, known as decoupage or Scherenschnitt. Lighting in the restaurant is provided by striking chandeliers suspended overhead. Each chandelier is composed of three concentric bronze rings from which 48 bell-shaped Murano glass shades hang. These handblown glass forms are designed to resemble snowdrop flowers, a wild flower native and cherished in the Alps. Sprenger further elaborated that the frosted finish on these glass bells evokes the appearance of a gentle layer of dew, enhancing the natural, alpine-inspired theme. A central feature of the restaurant is a four-meter-long sculptural buffet table. This imposing piece was custom-built using layered fiberglass and bronze, creating a visual contrast with the surrounding elements. The form and design of this buffet table are conceived to mirror natural elements found in the surrounding Swiss countryside, capturing the fluid movements of rivers and the rugged contours of mountain landscapes. This meticulous attention to detail and bespoke design throughout the Monti restaurant successfully blends contemporary aesthetics with the traditional Alpine charm of Gstaad. #JakobSprenger #MontiRestaurant #TheAlpinaGstaad #GstaadSwitzerland #InteriorDesign #BespokeFurniture #MuranoGlass #AlpineDesign #BoutiqueHotel

Violino d’Oro, a five-star boutique hotel unveiled by Collezione Em from the Maestrelli family, is situated a short walk from St. Mark's Square in Venice. This property aims to offer an immersive experience into Venetian culture, blending tradition with contemporary design, sustainability, and an authentic Venetian spirit. The hotel reflects the Maestrelli family's over three decades of experience in hospitality, emphasizing respect for cultural heritage and excellence. It has been recognized by The Leading Hotels of the World, signifying its status among exclusive global destinations. The hotel is housed within three meticulously restored 17th-century buildings. The interior design prioritizes silence, texture, and natural light. Every detail, from the materials to the subtle scents, contributes to a unique atmosphere. Sara and Elena Maestrelli have guided the reimagining of Venetian hospitality with a focus on sophistication and human connection. The decor features fabrics by Rubelli, lamps by Venini, artisanal Venetian terrazzo floors, and a curated collection of Italian art and design, all harmoniously integrated. The 32 rooms and suites balance elegance and comfort, showcasing a blend of clean-lined Italian furniture, Oriental pieces, Venetian antiques, and contemporary elements. Canal views, high ceilings, and a soft color palette contribute to a serene and sophisticated ambiance. Sara Maestrelli describes the hotel as an “artisanal Italian project designed like a home,” with everything from glassware to headboards crafted locally in Venice and Tuscany, using noble materials and skilled craftsmanship. Velvets, brocades, and damasks from Rubelli, Carrara marble inlays, and hand-blown Murano glass lamps are prominent features, each with a unique story and tactile quality. Sustainability is a core philosophy at Violino d’Oro, extending beyond a marketing label. This commitment is evident in the use of local materials, support for artisan economies, and mindful resource management, reflecting a dedication to environmental responsibility and the future of luxury travel. The hospitality is characterized by warmth, attentiveness, and personalized service, with staff trained to anticipate guest needs, offering a balance of professionalism and approachability. Breakfasts are served in a sun-drenched dining room, featuring fresh, seasonal, and organic produce, artisanal pastries, and made-to-order coffee, catering to various dietary preferences. The serene atmosphere is designed to promote a sense of well-being. The hotel's culinary highlight is Il Piccolo, an intimate, Michelin-recognized restaurant with nine tables. It offers a contemporary, plant-forward menu based on local and seasonal ingredients, complemented by creative cocktails from head bartender Francesco. The menu evolves with the seasons, combining innovative techniques with traditional respect for ingredients. Violino d’Oro offers unique experiences connecting guests to the soul of Venice. These include Venetian cooking classes, yoga by the canals, mixology workshops, and private visits to artisan ateliers like Rubelli or Micheluzzi. Cultural tours provide access to lesser-known parts of the city, operas, or private palaces. Tailor-made experiences such as sunrise photography walks, guided strolls through Dorsoduro, private lagoon cruises, and food tours through traditional Venetian bacari are also available, aiming to foster a deep connection with the city. Excursions to Murano and Burano are also arranged, offering insights into glassmaking and lace-making traditions, respectively. Murano provides opportunities to observe glass artisans at work and purchase unique pieces, while Burano captivates with its colorful houses and the delicate craft of handmade lace. The hotel aims to provide a new way of experiencing Venice—authentic, sophisticated, and deeply emotional, a sanctuary that makes guests feel at home while offering an exceptional and unique stay. #VenetianLuxuryHotel #BoutiqueHotel #VeniceTravel #ItalianDesign #SustainableHospitality #CulturalImmersion #ArtisanCraftsmanship #MichelinRestaurant #HistoricRenovation

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

L'Apogée Courchevel, the latest addition to the German hotel group Oetker Collection, is a ski-in ski-out hotel nestled in the Courchevel valley. Its interior design is a unique collaboration between India Mahdavi, known for her vibrant use of color, texture, and patterning, and Joseph Dirand, a master of monochrome aesthetics. This design approach creates a distinctive atmosphere that balances bold artistic expression with refined sophistication. The hotel's architecture features a chalet-shaped volume, predominantly incorporating extensive wood paneling to evoke a sense of traditional Alpine warmth. Within the guest accommodations, Mahdavi's influence is evident in the creation of a homely environment. This is achieved through bespoke furnishings upholstered in rich, deep greens and reds, colors that provide a luxurious and inviting feel, contrasting with the starkness often associated with modern minimalist design. Conversely, Joseph Dirand's design for the public spaces introduces a measured amount of color. Here, greys and beiges are harmoniously blended with the gleam of burnished brass and the intricate patterns of variegated marble. This combination exudes an understated elegance, allowing natural light and the stunning mountain views to become focal points without being overshadowed by excessive ornamentation. Dirand's signature monochrome palette, though subtly adapted, maintains its characteristic clean lines and sophisticated simplicity. The culinary experience at L'Apogée Courchevel is spearheaded by two-Michelin-starred chef Yannick Franques, with the restaurant offering spectacular mountain vistas. This dining area is designed to complement the breathtaking scenery, creating an immersive experience for guests. The spa facilities, adhering to Dirand's typical black and white scheme, provide a serene and luxurious retreat. It includes six treatment rooms, a salt cave, and a steam room, all designed to offer a tranquil escape from the bustling ski environment. The hotel's location at 1 Jardin Alpin, Saint-Bon-Tarentaise, Savoie 73120, France, positions it as a premier destination for luxury ski tourism. The integration of two distinct design philosophies—Mahdavi's colorful exuberance and Dirand's minimalist elegance—results in an interior that is both visually captivating and exceptionally comfortable, making L'Apogée Courchevel a standout property in the high-end hospitality sector. #LuxuryHotel #SkiResort #InteriorDesign #IndiaMahdavi #JosephDirand #Courchevel #OetkerCollection #ChaletDesign #HospitalityDesign

The A by Adina hotel, marking its European debut in Vienna, presents a premium apartment hotel concept that redefines 'hotel-living.' Occupying five floors of the 180-meter-tall Danubeflats, this establishment by Australian-born TFE Hotels combines the sophistication and services of a high-end hotel with the independence and comfort of apartment living. This approach caters to a growing trend among travelers seeking home-from-home amenities complemented by luxury hotel services. The hotel offers 120 premium studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments, each designed to provide individual, flexible, and stylish living spaces. These units are equipped with their own kitchens and work areas, making them suitable for both extended stays and short breaks. The unique architecture of the Danubeflats building ensures that each room has a distinctive layout, with sizes ranging from 23 sqm for studios to 96 sqm for two-bedroom apartments. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of Vienna from a private infinity pool, utilize saunas, and access a state-of-the-art gym. The on-site bar and restaurant, Lottie’s, operates under the ethos of 'a little luxe, a little laid back,' focusing on exceptionally well-executed simple offerings. In collaboration with BWM Designers & Architects, the interior design of A by Adina Vienna Danube harmoniously blends European architectural sophistication with Australia’s relaxed elegance. Recognizable Viennese elements, such as herringbone wooden floors and the use of Cipollino marble in kitchen areas—a material favored by modernist architect Adolf Loos—are subtly integrated. These are complemented by colors, patterns, and textures inspired by Australia’s natural landscapes, featuring soft, earthy tones contrasted with deep blues and greens that evoke Australian skies and oceans. Bespoke wallpaper features curved lines, mirroring the Australian landscape, a motif that is geometrically reiterated in custom-made lighting and specially designed carpets, where the curves are looser, suggesting flowing water. The corridors are intentionally decorated in dark tones to heighten anticipation for the naturally lit rooms, which benefit from expansive floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Ceilings are painted to match the walls, creating an illusion of greater space by eliminating color barriers. Extensive use of wood contributes to the interiors' softness and warmth. Erich Bernard, CEO and Founder of BWM, explained the design philosophy. The vision was not to overtly replicate Vienna within the hotel, as the city already surrounds it. Instead, the focus was on a subtle integration of Viennese elements with the A by Adina concept, creating a unique fusion. Bernard emphasized the importance of authenticity in the narrative, aiming to combine two distinct elements rather than separating them. He highlighted the principle of synthesis, bringing together the Viennese and Australian influences in a coherent and unified manner. A deliberate design choice in Lottie's, for instance, involved leaving the ceiling exposed to reveal the building's structure, adding texture and character. The selection of real wood and bespoke materials was crucial for conveying the desired atmosphere and narrative depth. Bernard also underscored the importance of timeless design for sustainability, advocating for creations that transcend fleeting trends to ensure longevity. The A by Adina hotel successfully embodies a luxury lifestyle hospitality experience, encapsulated by Lottie’s ethos of 'a little luxe, a little laid back,' by providing a unique environment that merges comfort, luxury, and cultural synthesis. #HotelReview #LuxuryTravel #ApartmentHotel #Vienna #HotelDesign #InteriorArchitecture #EuropeanDebut #PremiumAccommodation #HospitalityDesign

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

The Park Hyatt Beaver Creek celebrated its 30th anniversary with a significant top-to-bottom renovation of its lobby and bar areas, aiming to transform these spaces into a luxurious, yet welcoming, mountainside home environment. Premier Project Management, a Dallas-based hospitality-project-management firm, spearheaded the design updates. The objective was to create a residential and inviting 'living room' atmosphere for guests. Key elements of the renovation included the installation of a dramatic new chandelier featuring 175 hanging pendants, a faux fireplace surrounded by a cantilevered, live-edge wood bench to draw guests in, and two additional fireplaces in the bar area to encourage social interaction during après-ski. The design incorporated practical changes such as relocating the reception desk to include chairs for guest comfort during check-in. Lighting was given significant attention, with a dimming system implemented to adjust brightness throughout the day, enhancing the mood and functionality of the space. A central bar was designed to function like a kitchen island, acting as a natural gathering point, with all equipment, glassware, and bottles concealed to maintain the pristine mountain views. The entire renovation was guided by the principle of creating a luxurious and authentic mountain-style experience. The designers from Premier Project Management shared several tips for individuals to incorporate similar elegant mountain styles into their own homes. One suggestion involves utilizing dark colors strategically. The existing knotty pine walls in the lobby were re-stained with a layered black and brown finish, effectively transforming the space without requiring extensive costs. This darker coloring was also applied to trim and the ceiling to frame the room's focal point, the mountain view, guiding the eye without overwhelming the space. This technique demonstrates how darker tones can enhance and define architectural features. Another design tip emphasized enlivening neutral color palettes through colorful pillows. The designers encouraged personalization by suggesting individuals craft their own pillows from vintage or specialty textiles or add appliqués and trims to store-bought options. This approach allows for easy and cost-effective changes to a room's aesthetic. Selective decoration was also highlighted as crucial; shelves were intentionally left partially empty or filled with thoughtful, context-matching accessories to create a meaningful and curated collection rather than a cluttered display. This approach focuses on quality over quantity, making chosen items stand out. Effective lighting was presented as a key mood-setting element. The renovation used LED lights at the back of metal-framed floating shelves to create a glowing effect, a technique that can be replicated at home with LED tape lighting. The article also advised mixing various metals and materials, specifically mentioning antique brass accents used throughout the Park Hyatt’s lobby, chandelier, fireplaces, and on furniture elements like bar stool legs and table lamps. The importance of deliberate mixing was stressed, ensuring balance so that no single material overwhelms the design. Lastly, the article pointed out that changing a light fixture can drastically alter a room's overall feel, citing the replacement of an antler chandelier with a modern, art-inspired canopy designed to evoke falling ice crystals, complementing the surrounding landscape and providing an energy-efficient solution. #HotelRenovation #LuxuryDesign #MountainStyle #InteriorDesignTips #HomeDecoration #LightingDesign #ColorPalette #ResidentialDesign

Interior stylist Nita Hauhia and her partner Valtteri Vartiainen embarked on an ambitious project to convert a former ski factory in Finland into a chic family loft. This endeavor followed immediately after an extensive renovation of their previous home, an old laundry in Porvoo. The couple, driven by Nita's childhood dream of living in an old factory, purchased the 1950s building in January 2016 and completed the extensive renovations by October 2016. The 307-square-meter factory had been previously converted for residential use in 2008, but this earlier renovation had stripped the building of its historical character, transforming it into a modern, white stone villa that Nita found unappealing. Furthermore, the property suffered from issues such as mould and ground frost due to a lack of consideration for Finland's extreme climate, necessitating a complete overhaul to restore its original factory aesthetic and ensure durability. With the assistance of Nita's grandfather, a construction foreman, and a close friend specializing in building and interior design, the couple commenced demolition and reconstruction. Modern plasterboard walls and limestone floors from the previous renovation were removed, and the original ceilings and pillars were sandblasted to expose their raw, industrial texture. Nita envisioned a functional layout with high ceilings, ample space for entertaining, and numerous windows to maximize natural light. Hard-wearing materials were selected, including treated concrete floors, which allowed their nine-year-old son, Helmer, to freely cycle and skateboard indoors, and Carrara-marble benchtops in the spacious kitchen. The kitchen features black doors and knobs installed on an IKEA framework, contributing to a timeless industrial aesthetic. The dining area continues this theme with concrete ceilings and floors, complemented by a large table built from 3.5-meter floorboards and vintage flea-market chairs. A unique element of the design is the dressing room upstairs, inspired by a shop and restaurant in Estonia. It boasts a handmade brick wall and an iron-framed window overlooking the living room, designed to showcase Nita's shoe and clothing collection. Personal touches are evident throughout the home, such as a 1950s Norton motorbike in the living room, a family heirloom reflecting their passion for racing, and a blue floral porcelain sink in the bathroom, inspired by a hotel Nita admired in Stockholm. Throughout the loft, designer furniture pieces are juxtaposed with vintage rugs, and collected books, magazines, and artworks add warmth and personality to the industrial backdrop. A birch plywood sauna, a quintessential Finnish feature, was also incorporated. Despite initial challenges, such as a non-functioning heating system on their first night, the couple successfully transformed the factory into a home that uniquely reflects their passions and lifestyle. Future plans include adding a metal-framed window between the hallway and garage to view their classic cars, an ambition they regret not completing during the initial renovation phase. #LoftConversion #IndustrialStyle #HomeRenovation #FinlandHome #InteriorDesign #SkiFactoryConversion #FamilyHome #HistoricBuilding