The birthplace of the chalet interior style is the province of Savoy, which is located in the South-East of France, in the foothills of the Alps. This trend is based on the unique local culture. In the past, the word “chalet” was used to describe durable cozy houses, built at the foot of the mountains, along the shore of a lake or river. In the course of history and thanks to the accumulated experience of adapting to the climatic conditions of the Alps, certain construction rules have developed.
General features of a chalet-style interior
The high foundation, ground floor, and sometimes the first floor were built from durable stones. The towering structure was made using whitewashed timber coniferous species tree. Over time, the wood darkened from exposure to resins. The house had no more than two floors; the second floor of the house was necessarily an attic.
The sloping gable roof, covered with tiles, with projections up to two meters on all sides, protected the house well from the weather. In winter, this design retained snow, which helped to keep warm, like a fluffy hat. And in the warm season, water did not accumulate on the roof.
Particular importance was attached to the location of the building. The main facade always “looked” towards the dawn, and the rooms were evenly illuminated by the sun throughout the day.
These simple canons were strengthened and entered into interior design under a style that adopted the historical name “chalet”. The only deviation that is allowed in modern styling is the use in laying the foundation and construction ground floor concrete and brick. In any case, the cladding should be carried out exclusively with natural stone.
The chalet style is incredibly close to nature. The thirst for constant admiration of its landscapes is expressed in a large number of panoramic windows, a huge balcony, courtyard patios and a terrace protected from precipitation by roof canopies. Wicker furniture with textile inserts is well suited for attics and open areas.
The landscape design of the adjacent area is designed according to the principle of non-interference or minimal human intervention in the landscape created by nature.
On areas paved with stone or wooden flooring, a place for relaxation and admiring nature is organized. Light wicker chairs and table, rocking chair, open sky and Fresh air– such a vacation can be called the dream of any city dweller. A barbecue, oven or other hearth is also installed here, allowing you to cook dishes directly on an open fire.
The main recognizable features of the chalet style are natural flavor, exclusively natural materials, the predominance of wood in interior decoration, zonal stone decoration, rusticity, detailed use of cast iron and copper, animal skins and fur. It has a lot in common with, however, the unique features of the chalet make it possible to distinguish it into a separate direction of interior design.
The style under consideration is based on the contrast of roughness, rusticity, simplicity and sophistication, nobility, and high aesthetics. The named features have a little in common with the era of knights. The tree is alive, it breathes and brings warmth. The stone is durable and is associated with reliability and protection. The natural textures of wood and stone here play the role of the main background, against which the details are clearly and clearly highlighted.
Chalet style interior
The interior decoration of the ceiling and floor is almost always wooden. At the same time, in addition to oak, the most commonly used wood is coniferous - pine, spruce, larch, cedar. The relief surface of the tree is replete with cracks, knots and irregularities, demonstrating the beauty of its natural beauty.
Some imperfection, incompleteness of wood processing conveys the warmth of human hands that touched it. The slight creaking of breathable floors gives rise to associations with the comfort of grandma's house. The artificial aging of the boards gives a special charm. They are coated with matte wax, varnish or stain with a patina effect.
Ceiling beams pick up and strengthen the image. Displayed or natural bearing structures, or decorative elements attached to the ceiling. Beams can also be on walls, act as columns supporting the ceiling, mark the boundaries of functional areas, or serve as the basis for furniture.
Beams can be neat, even, smoothly hewn, but much more often they have a rustic appearance, traces of manual processing, and remnants of bark.
IN low rooms The ceilings have a flat surface, lined with planed boards.
However, there are also some deviations from the main topic. Sometimes the walls are faced with brick and then plastered. It is allowed to lay the floor with marble, granite, other stone or tiles.
To avoid monotony in the interior, one of the walls is laid out horizontally with boards, which creates an interesting visual effect. Very often, within the chalet there is a combination of various cladding techniques, textures and textures.
The main color in the chalet interior is the natural warm tones of wood. The plaster is matched to the main background and is usually terracotta, beige, cream or yellow.
Amber, green, light green, golden, white - the palette of alpine meadows and mountains is harmoniously reflected in the style of the chalet. Burgundy, wine, chocolate, and dark green accents are allowed. Simple floral and geometric patterns, such as polka dots or checkered patterns, are popular.
Chalet style furniture and decor
The furniture is simple, with traces of the past, but very comfortable. Soft wide sofas and chairs with high backs have a slightly shabby or faded appearance. Low coffee tables, wooden cabinets with a natural texture have darkened with time and resins.
The textile component is represented by natural materials and natural tones - undyed linen and cotton, coarse wool, fur, leather. Gray stone color or a shade of bleached wood looks harmonious on furniture upholstery. and curtains may have a slightly richer color palette.
It is impossible to imagine the chalet style without fleecy carpets, woven rugs, and woven runners self made.
The decor maintains the atmosphere of alpine nature. The chalet differs from country and Provence in the absence of stylistic trinkets and greater severity. Each item here carries a meaning. The real decoration of the chalet interior is the hunting trophies. Stuffed animals of local animals, elk or deer antlers, a bear skin thrown from the house are unique features that make it easily recognizable.
Natural aesthetics are also supported by conifers dwarf trees in pots, images of mountain landscapes, wreaths of dried herbs on the front door. Very often, the chalet style borrows interior items from the retro style. Peeling paint in places, stone and metal with signs of aging, old-fashioned furniture, porcelain that has survived a generation, clay jugs with cracks and painted plates only emphasize the spirit of originality and some asceticism inherent in the chalet.
A large number of windows with square frames and timber frames allow you to be as close as possible to nature and enjoy its beauty. Soft light promotes shadows and contrasts between lit and unlit areas. This helps to place accents and veil weak points. Antique round chandeliers, massive, with lamps imitating candles, made of cast iron or wood, fit perfectly into the interior of the chalet. Floor lamps and table lamps with fabric shades complement the main lighting with a cozy homey light.
Potted plants in ceramic pots and wooden tubs are placed around the house, enlivening the ambiance of the home. Bouquets of wild and mountain flowers decorate the bedroom and living room, filling the air with a unique fresh aroma.
Thus, the chalet is characterized by the use of exclusively natural materials in decoration, the predominance of wood, simplicity, a minimum of processing, the absence of pretentiousness and luxury, the inclusion of handmade items, the use of hunting tools and trophies as decoration, large dimensions of upholstered furniture and the presence of a fireplace.
Chalet style kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of any home, and even more so a chalet-style home, whose interior is based on nature and naturalness.
Simple wooden trim looks most harmonious here. Beams on the ceiling and in the form of columns made of aged, darkened wood unmistakably indicate style.
But in the room where food is prepared, use wood as facing material not very practical. Therefore, the floors in a chalet kitchen are often laid out with stone or ceramic tiles. In this case, it is easy to achieve their harmonious combination with stone work surfaces of furniture or the chrome-plated shine of household appliances.
The walls can also be faced with brickwork or stone. Especially often this design technique used for work wall.
The ceiling, especially a low one, can simply be whitewashed.
Terracotta, green, pistachio, emerald, olive, beige colors Ideal for the kitchen and fits into the chalet style. The black color does not irritate the eye and contrasts softly with the light shades of wood.
Very often a fireplace is installed in the kitchen. Nothing brightens up a kitchen like a real fireplace with an open flame.
The contrast of warm textured wood and the cold steel shine of household appliances gives kitchen interior a hint of brutality. If desired, this effect can be avoided by hiding the equipment behind wooden false facades and replacing stone with wood.
Chalet style often uses retro furniture from the middle of the last century. But simple wooden furniture with a minimum of processing, as well as homemade pieces, look more harmonious in a chalet kitchen. Chairs, simple or decorated with carvings, are placed around a strong oak table with thick legs.
Cabinets, cabinets, cupboards are placed along the walls, as in village houses. Wooden spice vessels decorated with carvings, clay pots, ceramic dishes, and bundles of dried herbs are stored on open shelves. Wooden utensils and cutlery, copper candlesticks and frying pans, cast iron accessories and massive chandeliers help create the atmosphere of ancient Alpine life.
The dominance of textiles has not bypassed the kitchen. Homespun window-sill-length curtains, linen tablecloths and towels with national embroidery bring rural comfort. A more modern option for window design is roller blinds.
The floor is lined with cozy homespun rugs or, in a more brutal version, animal skins.
Faucets, fittings, utensils and accessories made of copper or bronze will harmoniously fit into both a retro setting and the composition of a country house.
Bouquets of freshly cut flowers on the table give a positive mood, like a smile on the face of a loved one.
Living room in chalet style
The most spacious room with high ceilings. Thanks to the large windows, the room is literally flooded with sunlight.
As a variation on the chalet style, it can be used as a living room glass veranda or a huge balcony. In this case, household members and guests can freely enjoy the local landscapes of stunning beauty.
In the case of attic placement, the living room will be decorated with a sloping ceiling.
The living room adheres to an emphasized brutality of style. This effect is achieved through the use of poorly finished wood textures, aging stone and wood techniques, exposed stonework and thoughtful accessories.
The interior decoration is replete with wood texture. Sometimes it brings a bit of variety structural plaster or whitewash.
Ceiling suspended structures are exposed. Wooden round or square beams supporting the ceiling in the form of columns look good in very spacious rooms.
The walls are covered with wood, most often with timber panels. The area around the fireplace is decorated with natural stone with minimal processing.
Antique, slightly worn parquet looks noble on the living room floor. The central place of the living room is given to a solid stone fireplace. Warming and cozy, it gathers all family members and guests around it.
The mantelpiece stores copper antique dishes, candles, boxes, figurines made of wood or stone, clay or wicker artifacts. The composition is complemented by lighting supplies made of wrought iron and neatly stacked on the floor.
A stuffed head of an animal looks especially authentic above the fireplace, but this place is often reserved for a TV.
A vintage set of cabinet furniture is selected for the living room. An array of valuable species conveys status, solidity and quality. A table or chest of drawers in the form of a chest with handles and locks, covered with patina, is a real find for the chalet style.
At the same time, straight lines, angularity, fancy shapes armchairs and tables in the style of the second half of the 20th century fit harmoniously against the chalet-style background.
Bronze figurines, ceramic vases or antique books in shabby binding look organic on a low table made of roughly processed wood, not covered with paint.
Upholstered furniture of chic sizes invites you to a comfortable rest. The upholstery can be fabric or leather. In the first case, the fabric may have a checkered or striped color, but more often it is monochromatic, with a fading effect. Tapestry upholstery is often used.
Playing with upholstery tones can add personality and give the interior some character, for example, a combination of black and white or yak red and gray. The smooth surface of the fabric will create additional contrast. In this case, it is important not to get too carried away in order to preserve the aesthetics of the Alpine style.
Textiles in calm tones in a natural palette envelop you in soft comfort and homely tranquility. Geometric patterns on decorative pillows brighten up a monochrome interior. The brush strokes fit perfectly onto the chalet style canvas. warm shades white, as well as wine, burgundy, deep blue and emerald green.
Leather, linen, velor, wool, fur - textures that are pleasant to touch with your hands. A skin carelessly thrown on the floor or hung on a wall, a knitted blanket on an armchair, a warm handmade fleecy carpet, and curtains with tiebacks give the chalet a unique charm.
Large tapestries, canvases of the classical art school in wooden frames depicting nature, animals and hunting scenes captivate the eye. Hunting weapons hung on the walls help give the interior a unique flavor. In the farmer's interpretation of the style, you can find tools attached to the wall.
Smooth out the brutality of the style with compositions of dried flowers or fresh local flowers in a glass vase. The central chandelier often attracts with its massiveness, simplicity of form, and at the same time grandeur. It is usually made of metal and imitates candlesticks. Chandeliers are often decorated with deer antlers.
Chalet style bedroom
The eco-friendly and ascetic nature of the chalet style is perfect for a relaxation room. The tree breathes and maintains a favorable microclimate here. Nothing irritates or interferes with sleep. The ideal place for placement is an attic with a magnificent view from the window.
The interior decoration of this part of the house is made using wood. In the rustic version, the ceiling is decorated with rough-hewn beams, and the floors are lined with aged boards.
But much more often the bedroom is decorated much softer and more delicately than other rooms. Smooth surfaces, calm colors, natural beauty of nature, cleanliness and light are conducive to complete relaxation.
The walls are either painted in a light color or have a natural wood texture.
The floor is laid out with wood or stone tiles.
Many years ago, residents of the Alpine mountains gathered the whole family - both children and parents - in one bedroom. To save space, beds were mostly multi-tiered. This room was heated by the fireplace, and its warmth was enough for everyone.
The fireplace is very common in modern bedrooms in chalet style. True, its functions are now most often purely decorative. The area around the fireplace is lined with stone.
The significant dimensions of the room have also been preserved, despite its individualization. Therefore, quite a lot of interior items are placed here.
The bed is usually large, solid, made of solid wood. The headboard is decorated with carvings and other decorative elements.
At the foot of the bed there is often a chest in which it is convenient to store bedding, or a banquette.
A wardrobe, chest of drawers, and wardrobe are freely placed in a spacious room. Additional pieces of upholstered furniture - armchairs, a sofa or sofa - also find a place here.
A chalet-style bedroom is characterized by the use of canopies. The bed, protected from drafts on all sides, is warm and incredibly cozy.
Panoramic windows open magnificent views. One of them has a small relaxation area - a couple of armchairs, sitting at which you can admire the scenery, and a small table. Very often in the bedroom you can access the balcony or terrace through glazed doors.
Natural textiles add softness to the interior. Thick curtains preserve natural shades. They can also serve for zoning space. Bedspreads and pillowcases are hand-sewn from natural materials, most often wool or fur.
Carpets or animal skins on the floors and walls absorb noise and provide warmth, making the environment ideal for relaxation. Pastel shades of living nature also take part in creating an emotionally warm environment. In such a bedroom you can truly relax and unwind. The most popular accent shades are wine, burgundy, and brick.
Subdued, intimate lighting of the bedroom is supported by floor lamps, sconces, and table lamps installed zonally around the room, primarily near the bed and mirror.
Candles, boxes, and fresh flowers add a sentimental touch to the bedroom composition. The walls are decorated with paintings depicting mountain landscapes. Antlers or a stuffed deer look very stylish above the bed.
A chandelier decorated with aged branches gives the room a unique antique atmosphere.
Chalet style bathroom
In the bathroom, the finishing can be wooden using moisture-resistant wood. In a more practical variation, the floors and walls are laid with stone. Tiles with artificial defects that imitate aging fit especially well into the chalet style.
The color of the room is in warm pastel colors with accents of brick, terracotta and gray stone colors. Ivory-colored ceramic sanitary ware and matte retro-design faucets fit perfectly into the chalet style. The bathroom stands apart near a window or wall. The bathroom cladding with natural stone looks impressive.
The sink is built into a wooden cabinet or stone countertop. Bathroom accessories are hidden behind solid wood facades with a natural texture and patina.
For convenience, the bathroom contains wooden benches or stools covered with a knitted blanket or fur. Sometimes in a chalet bathroom you can find a stone-lined fireplace.
Handmade items made from natural materials, such as a stone soap dish or knitted washcloths, emphasize the image of an old house built in the mountains. A mirror in a silver-plated or antique wooden frame is suspended above the washbasin. Fresh flowers and wicker baskets set the mood for a romantic mood.
Textiles help create original comfort. White waffle towels folded on wooden shelves. The window is covered with a linen curtain, roller blinds or blinds. The washing machine is masked or covered with a thin screen. The floors are warmed with warm fluffy carpet or fur.
Warm, diffused lighting helps you relax and relieve stress. The central chandelier is either missing or emits a weak, muted light. This is facilitated, in particular, by fabric lampshades. An intimate atmosphere is created by candles placed on the floor and furniture.
The chalet-style interior makes you forget about the rhythm of modern life and the stresses associated with it. Little dependent on the passing time, majestic and unchanging, it allows a person to feel protected.
Photos of a chalet style interior
The ideal home to embody the chalet style is secluded houses in picturesque corners of nature on the shore of a reservoir. One of these houses is located on the shore of a lake in Canada's largest province - Quebec.
This is not the classic rustic chalet style. The interior concept under consideration is built on contrasts and represents an attempt at a modern interpretation of the classic Alpine style. The combination of exterior and interior colors is mesmerizing - rich black and snowy white. In addition to color, the textured contrast of roughly processed wood and light, smooth plastic is also impressive.
The house is heated using a fireplace made of fireproof steel. Being an integral attribute of the chalet style, it serves as a kind of focal point around which the environment is built.
Inside, the house is divided into two parts. The first takes up most of the space and is completely open. There is a kitchen, dining room and living room.
Panoramic glazing allows the sun to freely penetrate the house and creates the effect of being directly on the lake shore. The shade of the self-leveling floor resembles a rocky shore. And at the same time, it’s so nice to admire the magnificent landscape on a cool day, warming up by the fireplace in a rocking chair. Logs of firewood, neatly stacked at the feet, complete the picturesque picture.
The dining group is represented by a table and a bench of rough finish, an ottoman and two DSW chairs designed in 1948. Made from cast plastic, steel and wood, with excellent aesthetics, durability and environmental friendliness, they have become a real decoration of the interior. The snow-white fur covering the seat of the bench softens the unevenness of the texture and, together with the light shade of the wood, envelops it with tenderness.
The living area is designated corner sofa overlooking the lake, pouf and rug. The stone color of the covers echoes the shade of the self-leveling floors. Green, blue, and burgundy colors on the carpet and decorative pillows look like quiet accents. The main white background is supported by the color of the light round table. A handmade knitted blanket on a pouf adds a touch of originality.
A sparkling lacquered piano and a bench with soft seat made of genuine leather - perhaps the most striking contrast in the interior of this part of the house. The composition is complemented by white candles and black chess-shaped candlesticks contrasting with them. The focus is on the stuffed deer and skin that decorate this musical corner.
Ergonomic organization of space made it possible to use a modular kitchen block with outside as a rack for books and household appliances. The shine of chrome harmoniously combines with the gloss of the self-leveling floor.
The second part of the kitchen is ideally built into the wall of a plywood box that hides the personal apartments of the home owners. Laconicism, naturalness, and environmental friendliness are features that can generally characterize the furnishings of this part of the house. While taking a bath, you can enjoy the view from the window, and wide bed The bedroom is conducive to comfortable rest.
A mortise staircase leads to a makeshift top floor, where there was enough space to arrange an office and a recreation area. The knitted texture on the bedspread and decorative pillows, and the artificially aged chair helped create a corner of simple home comfort.
Chalet is an interesting style of home interior, which is very popular in particular among those who like to ski. Chalet is small house, which is located on the ski slopes, where tourists temporarily pay their way, although there are those who build such a house for living.
What is a Chalet?
Chalet houses can be compared to European style. This housing is very comfortable and can protect you from adverse weather and cold. Old-fashioned cozy chalets frame and infuse the home with modern pieces.
The chalet style originated many centuries ago in the southeastern part of France, in the Alpine mountains. The chalet was originally a shepherd's hut. It was a very durable building, made of massive timber combined with natural stone. It was built taking into account the protection of people and animals from bad weather.
Chalet is an interesting style of home interior
Reindeer herders built buildings with wooden frames, wide, well-supported cornices on the mountain slopes adjacent to their dairy farms. Shepherds lived in these simple houses during the summer months, enjoying the milder climate of the highlands, returning to the valleys before the onset of winter. As skiing and mountain trekking have become popular, chalet house plans have been converted into vacation spots.
Gradually, these buildings began to look less and less like poor huts, their appearance became more well-groomed and functional. Nowadays, the chalet style is very popular. Chalets are still associated with holidays, but not only in mountainous places. The style is reflected in many log cabin plans, including A-frame designs.
Key Features:
All chalet style houses have the same layout:
The main rule in chalet-style houses is the use of natural materials. The house must be built of wood, natural stone. The floors and ceilings are made of wood, and the surfaces of the walls are treated with plaster and whitewash. Sometimes the walls are decorated with wooden elements.
An important thing in the interior of a chalet is a large fireplace. Traditionally, fireplaces are decorated with wood.
One of the main decorations of a chalet-style house is flowers. Windows must have shutters. The best option The interior of the chalet is a country-style interior.
Interior finishing
Interior decoration consists of natural materials, finishing with a natural palette. The combination of wood and stone is optimal for construction, decoration beautiful houses with a warm, relaxing atmosphere.
Wooden floor and ceiling structures with beams are combined with traditional plaster walls decorated with pine or larch wood. Interior design, home decor in alpine style look charming, creating a pleasant feeling of an old house.
Artificially aged wood, a decorative palette, patina and natural fabrics are mixed together to add the feeling of a comfortable country home that has seen the past for generations.
The interior design and decor of the chalet should look spacious, simple, comfortable, and stylish. Large living spaces, high ceiling structures with solid wood beams are well suited for showcasing chalet style wooden furniture, creating a welcoming, rustic, comfortable home interior.
Alpine style in the interior
Modern houses in the Alpine chalet style look beautiful, warm and comfortable. This style of home design and decoration was born in Savoy, a province in southeastern France. Beautiful, welcoming style homes alpine chalets popular in France, Italy, Switzerland, Canada, Russia.
Modern interior design Alpine chalet style houses depend on rich history Alps, local construction and finishing materials, unique European traditions. The interior and decor of houses in the style of Alpine chalets is warm, comfortable, with natural materials and palette.
Alpine chalet-style houses were originally built from solid wood, a material used to protect shepherds from the cold weather in the mountains. Original houses Alpine-style chalets were built of wood and stone. A stone basement, ground floor combined with wooden floors and upper structures create solid, strong, warm, comfortable alpine chalet style homes.
Step inside a chalet-style home somewhere in a ski resort and you'll quickly feel the power of relaxed, rustic interiors - relaxation, comfort and harmony with the environment.
Whether it's the deer antlers on the wall or the leopard print chairs, the look of a chalet is always homey and comforting. It's hard to find another style that is both elegant and cozy like this one.
Journalist Claire Bingham’s book “Modern Living Chalet Style” was recently published, which is entirely dedicated to this style. In it the writer talks with fashion designers, tries to figure out the basic laws of the chalet that determine the style. Here are some tips from the book.
Let nature guide the design
While this is important to remember when designing interiors, it is even more important when considering outdoor spaces such as a deck or patio area.
Tips for designing interior decoration from designers:
- To match the design with the landscape, choose wooden flooring;
- leave the floor unpainted so that it becomes light gray over time;
- Stone paved walls and stone paving stones are used on uneven terrain, and in particular in the mountains.
Connect in new ways
Instead of sticking to one material or era, mix them up. Connect new ones soft chairs high back with a reclaimed wood table, or place mid-century style chairs on luxurious sheepskin. “The modern Alpine chalet leaves the aesthetics of the pine Finnish sauna for a more intimate, barn-like experience,” writes Bingham.
Stay simple
A chalet-style bath is a private retreat. "For complete relaxation, have a large bathtub, stick to a soothing palette, make sure the room has good light and access to the outdoors,” writes Bingham. A bathtub completely lined with wood will determine the main mood and remind you of the beauty around you.
A bath in this style is a retreat
Facade finishing
Chalet-style homes are suitable for country holidays with forms and elements inspired by Alpine architecture. Two-story plans, often on raised foundations, rise above heavy snowfall, topped with steep gable roofs to provide passage for snow and ice.
Wood siding with decorative wood and stone products add an earthy charm. Chalet designs tend to have a rectangular floor plan, with an open floor plan and elaborate cozy stone fireplaces. Wide galleries often provide outdoor living space on both levels. Main features of the exterior decoration:
- steep pitched roof;
- rectangular plans;
- porch or gallery.
Modern Alpine Chalet style homes are luxurious, comfortable homes that provide not only warmth in winter, but a beautiful residence with a traditional gable roof, timber structure.
Wooden exterior
A chalet-style house made of wood with eaves on the roof is not only a comfortable home, but very practical. They are suitable for bad weather, cold climates in general. The wooden structure is made in a very simple style but is very well organized.
It is worth noting that they try to make buildings and houses in the chalet style taller, but leave a low roof, as if making the house flat. Modern designs are made with glass and mirror walls; there are also comfortable balconies or terraces.
The chalet style is suitable for those who love country life, these houses are very functional and comfortable. They are designed for a family and a comfortable stay, so that you can come there to relax at the right time.
Chalet-style houses are very common in Switzerland, southern Germany, northern France, and Austria. The old chalet is not much different from today, because the projects are simply updated periodically.
One-story and two-story projects
The first impression that such a house should make is continuity between the external environment and the interior decoration. With the grace and style of a loft, the front room contains plenty of glass that allows the outdoors to flow seamlessly into your living area, providing a sense of natural harmony. Nature's inspiration will act as a muse, giving you ideas for projects that will turn your dreams into reality. The chalet is truly inspiring - both inside and out.
Although generally associated with our rural and rural areas, log timber has its origins in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe. Even in ancient times, they brought us their traditions of using logs to build houses, barns and other public buildings.
Size, number of floors, roof type, location of doors and windows, even type work force log frames were taken into account when early settlers built their homes. But the most important consideration was where to build. The log house must provide sufficient sunlight and drainage to effectively cope with difficult conditions northern life.
The modern log house is more of a “log house,” or a traditional style home built from milled logs. These logs are visible from the outside of the house and often inside as well. Traditional log chalet designs have incorporated modern amenities and other 21st century advances into more modest accommodations.
On the other hand, a log chalet is a wooden dwelling with a sloping roof and widely overhanging eaves. Today the word chalet is used for any cottage or house built in the traditional Swiss style. In some vacation destinations, a chalet is a building that contains dining areas, spas, and other tourist amenities. Some don't even resemble the traditional Swiss structure.
Projects of two-story houses: A-shaped plan
The steeply pitched roof makes it easy to identify a house plan called A-Frame, where the "A" shape serves a practical purpose. It is designed to help snow fall to the ground in areas with heavy snowfall. Additionally, using a roof that spans the entire length of the home typically requires less maintenance because the sides are less exposed to the elements and the home is better protected from the elements.
Because of their distinctive design, A-Frame homes carefully incorporate vaulted ceilings and high windows that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Sometimes their design allows you to use the upper level for a loft-style bedroom. A-Frame home plans are often known for their cozy and inviting central living areas as well as wide, wraparound decks. These homes are suitable for a variety of landscapes and can often be considered as vacation homes, waterfront homes, and mountain homes.
Norwegian style
In Norway, 4 types of wooden structures have been developed:
- ancient log structures;
- log houses;
- vertical pillar structures, used since the 12th century;
- frame structures, widespread from the 17th and 18th centuries.
In addition to log structures (in Norwegian style) with round cross section logs, and then oval, octagonal and rectangular shape, characteristic of Norway, was a design with vertical pillars (also Norwegian), in which vertical supports, pillars, supported the roof, relieved the log walls from loads (sometimes vertical log houses). They were used to make churches, and later cottages, barns, granaries and sheds. It is typical that the roofs of these structures should be covered with turf on peat, which in due course will be overgrown with grass.
Bvar style
The Bavarian chalet is an architectural archetype seemingly untouched by time, for good reason. Cool tars leave just the right amount of insulating snow on roofs. Minimal interiors can be customized for people, livestock, or supplies, and materials are region-specific.
Today, tens of thousands of modern chalet designs can be found on the slopes of major resorts, and thousands of others have been converted and modernized. Some valleys and cantons are more aesthetically demanding than others. Stone is replaced by concrete, but some elements are timeless - wood and fireplaces, for example.
21st century chalets bring romance in a very traditional way, highlighting the monumental roof and the rich materiality of timber, white plaster and concrete interiors, with those highlights and open fires.
The chalet's design is characterized by its concrete facades, which eventually extend into the interior, where they contrast sharply with the wooden cladding and form an interconnected inner core that unites the main rooms, although they are oriented towards different views of the valley. They are covered with minimal wood to create an ascetic yet spacious ski bunker.
Living room in chalet style
When we talk about chalet-style interiors, many think of exposed wood, stone walls, a warm fireplace in the center of the room, and furnishings that neatly turn the clock to a simpler, less flashy era.
Living room designs have a traditional style and a cozy, warm and comfortable rustic touch. However, underneath this exterior, the chalets still have modern amenities and new generation gadgets that promise to make your life much easier. The living rooms in the chalet are truly special as they are spacious, warm and luxurious!
In such a room you only think about relaxation, about reading a book in front of the fireplace or just want to lie and look at the fire. Chalet living room design with antique decor and warm tone creates the mood and further enhances the style. Get inspired by the examples below!
Set the mood in your living room with the scent of alpine herbs
You'll be surprised how you can transform your living room with a scent that's reminiscent of the fresh, clean scent of the mountains. Take the candles and essential oils with spruce, pine, lemon balm and juniper scents to create a pleasant ambience.
Use furs
Do you want a luxurious salon in your living room? Use faux furs on sofas to keep your living room in style. This will create an instant chalet of chic luxury style and warm appearance.
Texture
How about compensating for warm tones? Try contrasting different textures in your living room. Add a tactile soft finish and layer different shades with contrasting textures for a complete look. Metallic touches will add a cooling, magnetic touch to the interior.
Elegant lighting scheme
One of the best ideas for decorating a chalet is soothing atmospheric lighting that will provide a cozy feel. Floor lamps near the sofas will help refresh the space.
Pictures on the wall
Advice
Just choose wooden frames for chalet chic style paintings, and place in them black and white photographs with alpine themes. It will bring special comfort and atmosphere to your living room.
Love to the animals
If you love animals, now is the time to let your love for them show through your living room decor. Use pillows with digital photographs animals on the sofa and armchairs. Forest creatures and wild animals fit perfectly into the chalet style.
Cozy table
The chalet style suggests that family and friends will gather around a huge table where they can talk comfortably. To do this, it is definitely worth decorating the living room with a large wooden table.
Antler
You will be surprised to know that this is a key element of chalet style decoration. Antlers built into the living room wall add elemental character to your space. They instantly connect the living room to nature.
A touch of contemporary style
Try mixing old with new. Cover your living room floor with soft rugs, wicker bowls and baskets filled with natural items such as:
- stones;
- tree;
- hang brown curtains on the windows;
- add table lamps in the corners.
These ideas will not only give a visually warm effect, but will also help highlight the uniqueness of the living room.
How to get this mysterious “chalet chic”?
You don't need snow falling in flakes outside to bring a bit of ski chalet into your interior. Here's an overview of important elements that will help add chalet style to your home.
Use natural materials and colors
As you can see, most chalets have a lot of natural materials such as wood and stone, as well as leather in the furniture, and then fur and wool in the accessories.
So the overall palette for your walls and furnishings can be drawn from these natural materials: light whites and creams reminiscent of the snow outside, plus browns and grays, ranging from light shades to deep and dark ones.
Among the numerous trends in world architecture and interior design, eco-style is one of the main trends. Modern man wants to be closer to nature, so he increasingly chooses the comfort of a country house, such as an Alpine chalet.
The design of the chalet-style house, inside and out, is characterized by original details that retain the main features of European medieval rural life. The centuries-old tradition of buildings is organically combined with modern technologies.
Classic chalet construction - shutters and carved balcony Source yandex.ru
Excursion into history
Chalet literally means “shepherd’s hut.” This was originally the name given to seasonal farms for dairy cattle that existed in the Alps, on the border of France, Italy and Switzerland. With the onset of cold weather, people and herds descended into the valleys, and the chalet huts remained empty all winter.
Already in the 18th century, the French appreciated the romanticism of mountain huts and began to decorate parks with garden pavilions made in a recognizable rural style. With the advent of alpine tourism, chalets slowly turned into holiday homes for enthusiasts of steep mountain trails and ski slopes.
Living conditions and the harsh nature of the mountainous areas influenced both the choice of material and the architecture of the chalet houses. Modern projects follow old recipe using traditional construction and design techniques.
Chalet-style houses: modern realities
A chalet-style house is reminiscent of mountain peaks, sparkling snow and delightful fresh air. For a person tired of everyday worries, such a house will become a refuge from the modern rhythm of life, a place where you can put on a warm sweater and spend the evening near the fireplace, watching the cheerful flames.
The house is also suitable for people accustomed to energetic holidays - hunters, travelers, photographers, lovers of skiing, snowboarding and simply nature.
Alpine house - a modern interpretation Source pinterest.ca
Distinctive features of the style
Chalet houses or, as they are often called, Alpine (Swiss) houses were originally built on mountain slopes; they had to be built taking into account nervousness and elevation changes. Shepherds who lived in the Alps several centuries ago used in construction only those materials that could be found nearby. The harsh climatic conditions of the highlands forced the construction of reliable, massive and warm houses that could last for decades.
Materials
A chalet-style house is a combined type of building that combines several types of materials. The union of stone and wood helps to create a practical home that can protect from bad weather and rockfalls. Initially, solid stone was used on the foundation, ground floor and first floor; the roof and attic floor were built only from logs; later they began to use massive timber. Over time, the wood darkened, which gave the building a special, unique look.
Such a house was not afraid of gusty winds, snow storms, or pouring rain. In modern alpine buildings, stone is replaced with brick or cellular concrete; the attic floor is built from profiled or laminated timber, often frame technology. There are buildings made of rounded logs or unplaned timber.
Chalet house - cladding artificial stone and clapboard Source samstroy.com
Advantages of a combined alpine house
In the mountains of Europe there is little forest, but there is plenty of stone. To build an entirely stone house is time-consuming and expensive; to build an entirely wooden and at the same time durable home is difficult. The compromise was the combination of materials.
Combination of stone first and wooden second floors allows you to reduce construction costs, and then heating costs. But chalet-style houses are loved not only because of the opportunity to save money; they have other advantages:
Construction speed. A chalet house is built faster than a completely stone building. You can live on the first, stone floor without waiting for the completion of the second floor.
Durability. The stone bottom protects the premises from moisture; the tree, being high from the ground, retains its properties for a long time. The sloping roof with large overhangs protects the entire structure from the sun and precipitation; a layer of snow helps retain internal heat.
Environmental friendliness. A house built from natural materials does not affect health.
Recognizable style adapted to fast-paced life Source chicagoblackhawksjersey.org
Multiple design options. A chalet-style house is easily recognizable by main feature: stone “bottom” and wooden “top”. Further elaboration of the details of the style depends on the fantasies of the future owner and their skillful interpretation by the designer. Most often, they try to preserve the naturalness of the exterior and interior decoration, diluting it with features of other styles (from country to hi-tech).
Exterior of an Alpine-style house: distinctive features of exterior design
The first chalet houses were strikingly different from their current counterparts. The buildings were as simplified as possible, without spacious verandas and, of course, without large windows, increasing heat loss. IN cold season shepherds hid young and weakened animals in the building.
Modern technologies have made the Swiss house more spectacular in appearance, while maintaining the tradition of building placement. They try to turn the façade of a chalet-style house to the east; this allows rooms to be illuminated evenly. Main design features style remain unchanged and are visible from afar:
Roof. Gable (as a rule), flat, with large offsets. It perfectly protects walls from weather disasters (wetness or snow drifts). The roof is covered with traditional wooden shingles or modern materials - soft roofing or metal tiles.
Number of storeys. Most often, two-story buildings are erected; the second floor is necessarily an attic.
Multi-storey chalets are typical of the Alps Source makemone.ru
Window. As large as possible, panoramic. Ancient shepherds sought to keep warm, the modern inhabitant of a chalet wants to enjoy natural landscapes. Modern technologies make it possible to combine the beauty of the landscape and the interior in an economical way.
Terrace or veranda(often glazed). Like a spacious balcony, one of the indispensable architectural details. In warm weather it is used as a summer patio.
On our website you can get acquainted with the most construction companies, presented at the exhibition of houses “Low-Rise Country”.
About the project: house layout in chalet style
Classic chalet houses were built on mountain slopes; There was often little space for construction. This affected the internal structure. Architects have long studied the main features of chalet layout, interior and exterior, and successfully use them in construction. Modern designs of chalet-style houses have a basically standard approach to construction:
Ground floor. Livestock is no longer hidden here, provisions and household equipment are no longer stored here. On the ground floor there is a living room, kitchen, study, and on the second floor there are bedrooms.
Lack of entrance vestibule. If there is no veranda, external door sometimes it opens directly into the living space, as in classic alpine buildings. In modern versions, the hallway is provided at the request of the house owner.
Interior of the entrance area of a chalet house Source archrevue.ru
Combination. To prevent the walls from reducing the internal area, it is practiced (on the 1st floor) to combine two or three zones into one space - the kitchen, dining room and living room. This space layout provides space and communication.
Facade elements. Terraces for summer holiday They are made spacious, often encircling the building.
Facade details. With the advent of double-glazed windows, shutters that protect an Alpine house from the piercing wind have become original decor. But the tradition of decorating the roof, doors, railings of terraces and balconies with carvings has been preserved.
Interior details. The fireplace is an indispensable component of the project alpine house.
Video description
About the secrets of the chalet style in the video:
Modern chalet house designs do not aim to compete with ancient mansions. They are built with an emphasis on durability, coziness and comfort. Modern technologies allow the construction of three-story buildings, with a basement, sauna, garage and modern communications.
Features of building a chalet house
Modern chalet houses continue the traditions of medieval masters. Construction companies offer modern and comfortable turnkey chalet houses, both standard and custom-designed. High-class architects and designers, experienced engineers and builders take part in their creation.
Country house project in chalet style Source emupauto.ru
Since natural stone (slate or pebbles) is an expensive material, when constructing a basement floor it is replaced with brick or foam concrete. Stone (natural or its artificial analogue) is used for cladding. Exterior finishing Chalet-style houses allow the use of textured plaster in pastel colors. As for the attic, the tradition of making it from timber or logs has been preserved.
On our website you can find contacts of construction companies that offer house design services. You can communicate directly with representatives by visiting the “Low-Rise Country” exhibition of houses.
Interior: features and details
The chalet style, originally masculine and rough, has long been adapted to today's realities and has been divided into two directions. One is filled with rural comfort, peace and quiet, the other is filled with hunting romance. The first is dominated by pottery and paintings in wooden frames, in the second - tapestries and hunting trophies.
In the interior of both directions there are no random elements, just as there is no ostentatious luxury. The living room of a chalet house will in any case comply with the canons:
Living room interior in an alpine house
A spacious room with high ceilings and panoramic windows is suitable for the interior of the chalet. Animal skins, massive furniture and warm carpets will highlight the charm of the style. Lighting can be multi-level. An antique central chandelier (with imitation candles) will create coziness together with sconces, table or floor lamps with lampshades made of natural fabric. An example of a chalet-style house interior, photo of a spacious living room:
Natural materials in the interior decoration of the living room Source pinterest.com
Colors and decor
All shades of natural wood are held in high esteem; style is not acceptable bright accents. If there is not enough color, you can add beige, black, wine, gray, cream or dark blue. Terracotta, marsh and wenge are allowed.
Details define the design of a chalet house; inside they are no less important than in other styles. Alpine motifs can be traced in the design. The necessary color is created by paintings and photographs in solid frames, with views of mountains, forests and valleys. In such an interior, ceramics look good, but without glaze, dull, matte. Metal and plastic will seem like alien parts; luxury, gilding and mother-of-pearl are signs of bad taste.
Video description
About the natural style house project in the video:
Ceiling and walls
The ceilings are high and wooden. Ceiling beams wonderfully convey the atmosphere of an Alpine house, although in the modern version they are part of the decor (in the attic, open beams are part of the roof rafter system).
Stone and wood are timeless classics, but today walls covered with decorative plaster or paint. Tapestries are used as decoration. Hunting motifs - horns, heads and skins of animals, hunting rifles give the atmosphere a touch of adventurism.
Hunting motifs are a common detail in a chalet living room Source houzz.es
Doors and floors
Chalet projects involve the use of heavy wooden doors. They are decorated with carvings and wreaths of dried fragrant herbs. The floors are unpainted solid boards, coated with varnish (or stain). Sometimes wood is artificially aged. Floors are usually decorated with carpets and animal skins.
Fireplace and furniture
The fireplace is the calling card of the style, the focal point of the interior. It is installed in the living room, or even in the bedroom, and is lined with stone. There are electric fireplaces, above which plasma TVs look quite natural.
The furniture is wooden, good quality, comfortable. Objects of an impressive appearance, soft, but having a rough appearance, with scuffs, will fit into the style. The decoration of the living room will be large leather sofa with pillows and blankets.
Textiles and household appliances
Natural (can be undyed) cotton, linen or wool (but not silk or synthetics) are welcome. Rough fabrics harmoniously support the natural, eco-friendly style of a country house.
Plasma panel above the gas fireplace Source pinterest.es
They try to hide household and digital appliances, security systems under wall wood panels, screens or furniture facades. This disguise preserves the ancient atmosphere of the home.
What could it be modern house chalet, photos of interesting projects:
Chalet house in native element Source hu.aviarydecor.com
Decoration of the facade: carved ornaments of the cornice and balcony Source shmidt.by
Modern interpretation of style does not contradict traditions Source archdaily.com
The use of modern materials will not spoil the classics Source houzz.fr
A cozy combination of chalet and country styles in the design of the living room Source paydaydcr.com
True chalet style - discreet, strict and warm Source houzz.com
The fireplace gives the bedroom the feel of an elegant country home Source houzz.com
Bedroom and balcony surrounding it Source medium.com
The kitchen and living room areas are combined into a whole space Source kbkuhni.ru
High-tech interior in an Alpine house Source aviarydecor.com
Conclusion
All styles evolve, and the chalet style will not escape changes. Many designers experiment with furniture, lighting and accessories, keeping elements of folk tradition unchanged. Thanks to such careful treatment, chalet-style houses will always look modern and natural.
Durable and cozy permanent structure, despite its simple origin, will appeal to both romantics and quite pragmatic people. Everyone is attracted to them harmonious combination natural comfort and amenities modern world, embodied in the chalet house.
