Embedded into the stunning Alpine landscape in the charming village of Vals, this holiday home in Switzerland is a unique and low impact design solution to residential development that is as stylish as it is unusual.
Designed by architects Bjarne Mastenbroek and Christian Müller of the architectural firms SeARCH and CMA, their intention was to completely integrate the home into the landscape to avoid disturbing or obstructing the natural environment while capturing the magnificent views over the narrow valley and mountains.
Completed in 2009, the slanted, recessed exteriors form a graceful arc of both horizontal and vertical proportions with a rustic stone facade and central terrace. Access to the house is solely via a nearby wooden barn, through a concealed underground tunnel running through the mountainside. Very Bond….
The interiors are composed entirely of raw concrete and illuminated with multiple layers of windows oriented towards the views that warm the spaces and highlight the architectural angles and industrial design. The ground floor combines a spacious living room with a suspended firepit adjacent to a step down, fully equipped eat in kitchen with a massive dining table carved from one gorgeous piece of wood. Upstairs, the six en suite bedrooms create unexpected spatial effects, with raised podiums and elevated bathrooms as well as slotted bunkbeds that create dreamy and private sleeping cocoons.
Collaborating with designers Hella Jongerius, Demakersvan, Scholten & Baijings, Marcel Wanders, Claudy Jongstra, Royal Tichelaar Makkum and Vitra Nederland, the furnishings and decor transform the spaces with an eclectic and whimsical mix of contemporary Dutch design.
The central terrace is an extraordinary spot of absolute containment with a hot tub for warming your bones apres ski, and the space and privacy to marvel at the breathtaking scenery.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Wifi throughout, satellite cable TV and iPod-dock audio system. Laundry facilities, ski storage with heated ski boot holders. Four bicycles for guests use and two parking places. Firewood is available for purchase (€35 per crate).
AROUND
The charmingly authentic Swiss village of Vals is situated in the southeastern part of the country just above Italy. Renowned for the world famous Therme Vals designed by architect Peter Zumthor (just next door), the area has largely escaped mass tourism. An ideal starting point for endless hiking trails, excellent skiing and winter sports on the local pistes, it’s also perfect for exploring the wild and raw beauty of the greater Graubunden region. Two hours from both Davos to the northeast and the glamorous St. Moritz to the south east, the rugged grandeur and remote stretches of wilderness including the breathtaking Viamala Gorge, make this an exhilarating and thankfully less traveled area of the Alps.
LOCATION
Vals, Switzerland. Nearest Airport: Zurich International (180km)
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Winters feature world class skiing with outdoor activities, adventure and stunning scenery year round
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