Amsterdam-based architecture and urban design firm SeArch has reimagined the traditional chalet to design this single family house in the Swiss Alps. The “conventional” chalet, originating from “chahtelèt” (shepherd’s hut) consists of a solid wooden house with shutters and gable roof, resting on a stone foundation. In the Swiss Alps, the chalet has gradually become a “multi-gabled” pastiche as luxury ski-chalet or grew to mega proportions with a maximum of apartments for affordable tourism. The most beautiful, historical examples are still the larger (farm) houses for several families, high up in the Alps, used only in summertime.
Inspired by the impressive “Grand Chalet Balthus” in Rossinière with large roof overhangs, the 500 sqm Chalet Anzère is designed within one clear volume. The garage was moved from the back of the house with problematic access to the lower road. Through a hallway and elevator, carved into the mountain, it has a direct connection to all three levels of the house; the guesthouse downstairs, the main living areas in the middle and a private apartment in the attic. All floors give access to three-meter wide terraces, connected by stairs and a phenomenal view over the Dent Blanche Massif with over 4000 metres peaks of Matterhorn, Dent Blanche, Dufourspitze and Weisshorn.
all images © Ossip van Duivenbode