In the heart of Gstaad, a Swiss chalet rises above the Alpine chic stereotype, offering a unique twist on traditional design. But how do you create a home that embraces the local culture while avoiding the overused and uninspired clichés?
Antje Hruby, founder of Hruby Studio, faced this challenge when tasked with redesigning a four-bedroom chalet in the picturesque town of Gstaad, Switzerland. Local regulations dictated the exterior style, but Hruby was determined to bring a fresh perspective to the interior. The old 1960s house, lacking in architectural value, provided a blank canvas for her vision.
And this is where the magic happens... Hruby reoriented the chalet to showcase the breathtaking Swiss panorama. By collaborating with Fend & Partner architects, she strategically positioned the building to capture the views, natural light, and the essence of the surrounding landscape. The chalet now sits in harmony with the local farmhouses, blending seamlessly into the tranquil Alpine setting.
The interior design is a masterpiece of subtlety and connection. Hruby chose a palette of earthy tones and untreated materials, allowing the patina of daily life to become a cherished feature. The use of stone, wood, and textiles mirrors the local topography, creating an immediate sense of place. The extensive wood paneling pays homage to Swiss craftsmanship, and a hand-carved stone basin in the guest bathroom reflects the rugged beauty of the mountains.
At the center of the chalet, an open kitchen and dining area embody the essence of family life. Hruby explains, "It's a space where cooking and dining merge seamlessly, fostering a sense of togetherness and retreat." Double-sided glass vitrines with pivot doors maintain visual connections, ensuring the landscape remains a part of the interior experience. The kitchen also provides a private haven for staff during social gatherings, without compromising the overall openness.
One of the project's most intriguing elements is the custom-designed lift. Hruby recalls the challenge, "Elevator design is restrictive, but I wanted to create a space that felt like a room." With the help of specialists, she crafted a lift interior with velvet walls, transforming it into a cozy cabin. The staircase, designed around the lift, features a delicate metal balustrade that adds elegance to the tight space.
Hruby believes transitional spaces define a home's character. She says, "Entrance halls, corridors, and doors shape the atmosphere more than any single room." Vintage pieces, like a Philippe Decrauzat painting and a Sedilia London sofa, add character and emotional depth to the rooms. The result is a chalet that intertwines contemporary design with local tradition, creating a unique and personal atmosphere.
But here's where it gets controversial... Is it possible to truly escape the 'Alpine look' while designing within the constraints of a traditional Swiss chalet? Hruby's work challenges our perceptions, inviting us to question the boundaries of cultural design. What do you think? Are there design elements that should always remain true to local traditions, or is innovation and interpretation the key to creating timeless spaces?
