As December and the skiing season approach fast, it is time to reflect on extraordinary design up in the mountains and grand designs for chalets that are more chic than shabby. A number of boutique hotels offer luxurious accommodation and ski-in, ski-out experience (like the Cheval Blanc Courchevel, part of the Louis Vuitton Group) but when you are in a position to own a chalet of your own who would you call in to design it?

It comes as no surprise that Callender Howorth, the well-known multi-discipline high end interior design practice based in London, was the practice of choice to undertake such a project on top of the Swiss Alps. A project that included designing, building, and styling a luxury accommodation.

The entrance to the chalet may seem plain, but prepare yourselves for the stunning views on the other side! The wall to wall closets will come handy for storing ski gear and the heavy clothes. Carved wooden chairs add character.

Selection of throws via Amara.com (left to right): Amara Mottisfont Tweed Throw - Olive £110; Missoni Home £240; Tibetan Sheepskin Throw - Taupe £1,050

Note the stone tiles in the entrance. Any skier will tell you that having this feature at home is almost a must, as you come in with boots full of snow. Changing shoes over the tiles means that any left over snow that melts will be cleaned easily and will not damage the floor. Wooden floors start further into the room. Clever design!

Having seen a number of these beautiful chalets in Austria and Switzerland, I catch up with Mark Howorth, founder of the practice, to understand a little more behind the project and the challenges.

The exterior of the property. Uplighters emphasise the architectural features.

What was the concept behind the design?

MH: The idea for this stunning chalet was to maximise the scenic view, as this really is the property’s showstopper. From the building’s glass-panelled façade can be admired an entire mountain range.

Natural cowhide rugs, The Rug Seller, from £190

And the style you were asked to deliver?

MH: The interior design was to create a family-orientated, cosy atmosphere. We centred the living area on a large feature fireplace and decorated the main atrium with a fantastic chandelier

The stunning chandelier is a talking point

Selection of table lamps from left: Caius Table Lamp by Zoffany; Elenor Table Lamp - Graphite and Mirande Table Lamp - Amber/Chocolate both Heathfield & Co. All via Amara.com

Deer heads, from £80 via Amara.com

Where there any specific client requirements that you needed to address?

MH: This was the client’s dream home that they built from scratch, so it was a labour of love. Our aim was to realise their vision and to help them make their dream come true. We worked hard to deliver something special.

How difficult was to work on this project given the location?

MH: The biggest challenge was to avoid getting stuck in the snow! We really had to plan deliveries meticulously: we had to make sure that the materials arrived outside of the snow season.

Lodsworth Corner Sofa Set by The Garden Trading, £2,100, AMARA;

CH25 Low Armchair, Hans Wegner, £2,150, The Conran Shop

764T Shaker Walnut Dining Table by Neri & Hu, 210cm length, £5,226 via The Conran Shop

LCH Eames Lounge Chair & Ottoman - Snow, £6,216 The Conran Shop

Any tricky aspects during the project?

MH: Aside from the snow, it was difficult not to just sit there and enjoy the view! The Swiss Alps must be seen to be believed. This chalet enjoys the best views of any project we’ve undertaken.

To see more about this project and more of their work, visit Callender Howorth.

This is not a sponsored post Photos courtesy of Callender Howorth

Special thanks to Muriel Penoty/Relevance PR

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