Mountain Ash

Mountain Ash Award Winning Swiss Alps Design
Project area : 500m2
Scope: Gut renovation and full furnishing
Location: Crans-Montana, Switzerland​
Completion date : 2023

Studio Hinton’s innovative design of Mountain Ash Swiss chalet has been widely celebrated, earning multiple prestigious nominations and accolades. It has been shortlisted for the Ski Chalet Award by The International Design & Architecture Awards 2024, the Best of Interiors 2024 by Callwey Verlag, and the Best Residential Interior – Private Residence, Switzerland 2024-2025 in the European Property Awards. This recognition underscores Studio Hinton’s exceptional ability to blend contemporary innovation with timeless Alpine charm.

As climate change drives a growing number of individuals to seek cooler retreats in mountainous regions during the warmer months, Studio Hinton offers a design that embodies both the traditional warmth of alpine architecture and a light, inviting ambience suitable for summer living. This chalet is at the forefront of a trend and offers a refreshing reinterpretation of classic alpine interiors: The “Non-Chalet” Chalet.

The 500m² chalet underwent a comprehensive renovation, transforming it into a modern alpine retreat while preserving its traditional charm. Oak takes center stage, this versatile wood was meticulously chosen for the flooring, joinery, furnishings, and stair railings. To cater to the residents’ preferences, the oak was stained in four different tones. 

In the bathrooms, a sophisticated mix of travertines and Emperador marble are used in varying proportions, paired with differently stained oak cabinets, creating a range of lighter and darker spaces, all the while keeping a red thread throughout the design of the home.

Furthermore, each room is individually designed with a custom colour palette, reflected in a careful selection of textiles to fit individual preferences. White plaster walls and recessed light mouldings enhance the bright ambience, further emphasising the non-traditional approach to chalet design.

The design of this alpine project fully avoids the heaviness associated with typical mountain chic styles. Its ethos combines traditional chalet design principles with the lightness of plaster and smoother wood finishes, resulting in a cosy alpine sanctuary infused with refreshing lightness. The project stands out with its innovative interior architecture and exemplifies a new direction in chalet design—one that balances the warmth of traditional materials with a light, contemporary aesthetic, ensuring comfort and elegance throughout the year.

GALLERY