A 23-year-old mountain enthusiast and skier engaged Davide Gratteri and Marta Lavezzari of multidisciplinary Milan design firm Jab Studio to update his dated, chalet-style condominium in the Italian Alps. He lives full time in the space, a top-floor unit in a circa 1970s building, which has the wood beams, pitched roof, and mountain-framing windows. To update the 500-square-foot home for the young outdoors enthusiast, Jab mixed elements from traditional, wood-filled Alpine style with a contemporary floor plan and modular solutions for maximizing the small space.
Photography courtesy of Jab Studio.
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The architects wanted a mix of wood in the space, so they lined the ceilings in birch plywood; “the result, in our opinion, is more complex and smart,” they say.
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For more Italian idylls, see:
Pastels Go Rustic in an Italian Farmhouse
Frequently asked questions
What is the article about?
The article is about a light-filled chalet condominium in Italy that was updated for a young Italian skier.
What was the inspiration for the redesign?
The designer was inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and sought to create a space that was both cozy and modern.
What were the key design elements incorporated into the chalet?
The designer incorporated a neutral color palette, natural materials such as wood and stone, and large windows to let in natural light and take advantage of the mountain views.
What was the goal of the redesign?
The goal of the redesign was to create a space that was functional for a young skier's lifestyle while also being inviting and comfortable for entertaining.
What are some notable design features of the chalet?
Some notable design features of the chalet include a stone fireplace, a built-in breakfast nook, and custom storage solutions throughout.
What was the approach to lighting in the chalet?
The designer used a mix of natural light from the large windows and strategically placed artificial lighting to create an inviting and cozy atmosphere.
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