Author
Ellen Eberhardt
Photographer
Marcello Mariana
Perched above a sweeping valley and village ski slope in the Italian Alps, along the border of Switzerland, this traditional mountain chalet has been given a modern update by Luconi Architetti Associati. And we are very much in love.
Keen to preserve the character of the original cabin, the design team took to the interior to add some modern touches and open up the space, while leaving the exterior as close to original as possible, as to not disrupt the local vernacular.
Stone, concrete, and wood were used to create a rather austere yet peaceful interior, featuring an expansive wood beam gabled ceiling and large, new windows overlooking the mountain range in the main living area. The near exclusive use of natural materials allows the striking structure to remain humble in appearance and use.
Details like the exterior wooden shutters were designed to blend seamlessly with the pre-existing structure. An expansion of the lower level embeds intimate bedrooms and a bathroom into the hillside to similarly preserve the chalet's original shape and appearance from the entrance and uphill vantage.
Outside, a patio and deck were added to create additional space to take in the views. Within which, a skylight was added that brings ambient natural light into the below-ground bathroom for what can only be assumed is one very incredible shower experience.
The lower level extension also accommodates a main bedroom and bunkroom, designed to be more compact and private compared to the largely open kitchen and living space above.
Imagine crashing here after a long day on the slopes. One can only dream.
Published 05-24-2021
