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Cimalpes

Inspirations

06 January 2020

Traditional VS design chalet

Do you know what really distinguishes a traditional chalet from a design? Answer in the article + in surprise: chalets that perfectly combine the two!

A chalet is without doubt synonymous with charm and conviviality, but today they generally fall into two categories: -

  • Traditional chalets
  • Contemporary chalets

1. The traditional chalet

Generally constructed using wood, and for good reason - wood is one of the best construction materials available. Not only is it strong and able to help insulate the property from the coldest temperatures, it also comes in several forms and essences.

Apartment La Bergerie - Val d'Isère
Chalet Maria - Courchevel

Construction in wood

The French love wood chalets because each one is unique and sometimes unusual construction within its genre, and they are great spaces to live in. Furthermore, wood chalets have thinner walls than those constructed of other materials, resulting in a larger living space.

Wooden chalets have a true charm that leaves no-one indifferent!

Top 7 Atypical chalets!

The essential elements

When you think ‘traditional chalet’, wood invariably springs to mind. But some elements are found in every chalet that respects mountain traditions.

What could be better than spending time with your loved ones around a welcoming fire, glass of wine in hand and the sound of children’s’ laughter in your ears?

Chalet Maria - Courchevel
Chalet Colorado - Méribel

Decoration

Mountain chalet signifies typically Alpine decor. Your chalet will typically be decorated with items such as hunting trophies and mountain artefacts such as wooden skis or sledges from the previous century.

All steeped in memories, you will be transported into the past and your most pleasant dreams!

2. The contemporary chalet

Contemporary design has also taken over the world of chalets, and some now have more modernistic interiors in place of a traditional mountain spirit.

The contemporary chalet epitomises upmarket luxury, prestige, made to measure services to dream about, as well all modern facilities and conveniences.

Chalet Black Pearl - Courchevel
Chalet Blossom Hill - Courchevel

Comfort first and foremost

With such high levels of comfort, chalets are the perfect place to relax, unwind and de-stress.

The feeling of being enveloped in a warm, cosy environment is enhanced by soft fabrics, a good fire, etc.

Relaxation is the watchword

The added value of this type of chalet lies in their especially luxurious equipment and facilities including cinema rooms, fitness rooms, massage rooms, swimming pools, hot tubs and many others.

You can take maximum advantage of your holiday: skier or non-skier alike, everyone will take great pleasure in getting together to share some relaxing moments after a long day.

Chalet des sens - Megève

3. Traditional and Contemporary

The two are absolutely compatible - and here is the proof!

Chalet Ecume des Neiges - Méribel

Wood and copper

These two materials, equally strong and durable, go together perfectly, each enhancing the other's tones.

You will appreciate this subtle mix which gives this kind of chalet its own unique atmosphere.

Brightness

The combination of pale wood, white walls and large, ultra-modern picture windows makes a chalet feel extremely grand!

Contemporary furniture looks marvellous in this kind of setting. So much so that we might like the same kind of thing at home, don’t you think?

Chalet Petit Yéti - Val d'Isère
Chalet L'Impasse - Megève

Architectural gem

The combination of tradition and modernity is particularly evident in this kind of chalet.

Exposed beams add character to this relaxing space, and event the swimming pool has majestic view of the mountains . Every modern comfort is found here thanks to the high architectural standards found throughout the Alps.

So, are you a traditional or a contemporary chalet person? Or maybe both?

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