Chalet No 1

Back in 2005 we were commissioned by a real estate and construction company to design a 60 square meters chalet, as a pilot model for a development they were preparing at Mount Parnassus. We felt enthusiastic since it was the first time we would delve into this type of design.

The house sits on a concrete foundation with its protruding portion surrounded by built stone. It features a durable timber frame construction providing warmth, cosiness and sustainability. It has sloping roofs ideal for cold climates, since they prevent large amounts of snow from accumulating on top of the house. These roofs have wide, well-supported eaves that form an overhang to throw water clear of the wooden walls and enhance the architectural design. Despite the house’s small footprint, its high vaulted ceilings create a feeling of spaciousness. We chose to use only natural materials, wood and stone, which we left exposed and unadulterated to fit in with the unspoilt rural environment.

The interior layout is open-concept with an L-shaped main room housing the living and dining areas and the kitchen. This configuration creates the hospitable communal atmosphere you yearn for in a mountain resort. We placed a fireplace upon entering: it heats the living area and helps offset any cold air that might rush in. The large picture windows fill the house with light while at the same time provide stellar views of the surroundings, connecting the indoors to the outdoors. The master bedroom forms a separate suite enjoying a private veranda that leads to the garden. 

After handing over the design development set of drawings, our clients asked for the addition of another floor to house more bedrooms. Understanding their desire to add to the commercial value of the project we explained this change of program should be studied and designed anew. Eventually, the project was implemented -without our collaboration- with the addition of a second storey which annuls the original design, dictated by our environmental concerns.