In the French speaking region of the Swiss Alps, just on the edge of a small village and down a steep and winding lane surrounded by farms, lies Chalet Cocagne. Originally built in the 1970s in the traditional architectural style of the region, Chalet Cocagne was in desperate need of up-dating.
The new owners, an American family recently relocated to Switzerland, recognized the potential of the property, and fell in love with the bucolic landscape and the sweeping alpine views. They wanted to retain the coziness of a traditional Swiss chalet- warm, cheerful, inviting- while embracing the incredible outdoor scenery.
Our response was to harness the natural beauty of the location, both literally and figuratively, to create a rustic chic oasis. Opening up the floor plan and framing the mesmerizing views with larger windows and doors helped
to bring the natural light and the outdoors in. A subtly colored textile palette echoes that of the surroundings.
`The decor choices were strongly influenced by the surrounding landscape and ecological sensitivity, creating a feeling of harmony with the outdoors. Naturally dyed fabrics inspired by the alpine palette using our own dying process, bespoke lime plaster colors developed with our Belgian painters, locally sourced wood and stone, and reclaimed pieces of all sorts are just a few of the aspects of this eco-friendly home.
Every element was carefully selected with sustainability in mind- from a table made from an ancient beehive and local wool upholstery, to reclaimed mercury mirrors and antique stone sink basins to the custom fabric dyes we created from foraged plants and flowers. Even the dining room light fixture, made from reclaimed zinc and wooden birds suggests this connection with nature and contributes to the comfort and coziness of a modern home.