A marvelous metamorphosis in architecture – an old barracks was transformed into a luxurious chalet

Any work involving the renovation of old buildings is quite a challenge for architects. And it’s all the more difficult when you need to completely refurbish a building that’s more than a dozen years old, while maintaining its original exterior. But, as you know, for any professional nothing is impossible, so even a cabin that got lost in the mountains can turn it into a modern and comfortable house, causing delight and admiration.

Just about such wonderful metamorphosis will be discussed in this article of the portal about design, and each visitor has a unique opportunity not only to visit the picturesque place, but also to see how designers managed to transform the headquarters of the Swiss army, acting during the Second World War, into a stunning chalet, giving its occupants comfort and complete privacy.

At first glance this house with a view of the mountains looks very small and dilapidated. But only once you get inside, you can truly appreciate its size. The designers kept the old but strong walls, paying tribute to the historical significance of this building and made noticeable changes in the layout through the glass partitions on the perimeter and a wooden cabin in the center of the house. Thanks to this solution, the chalet looks spacious, but at the same time clearly zoned.

Evaluating the design of the cabin in the mountains, you can note the abundance of wood, which gives the interior coziness and warmth. By the way, it is the main material for the decoration of such buildings.

At the same time the simple design, clean lines and lack of decorations on the walls attracts attention. Also you will not see any carpets or paths, which could add color to the tranquility and a little insulation to the stone floor. But this in no way impoverishes the premises, as you can see some spectacular details and bright accents. In addition, when the windows offer an amazing view, you do not want to distract attention from it with impressive decorations.

First of all, we should note the striking hole in the ceiling above the dining area, which acts as a kind of a skylight and opens visual access to the attic. After that you’re sure to pay attention to the original fireplace, whose design is unpretentious, but very organically integrated into the interior.

And then, of course, there’s the striking object of the dressing booth, which combines a large bed with a fuchsia bedspread and a large closet with a recessed floor plan that allows you to take up minimal space….

The compact kitchen, which fits in a small cabinet with built-in appliances, looks no less impressive. Its laconic white facades harmonize not only with the graceful ceiling, but also with the sparkling snow on the tops. Despite its small size, it safely concealed the domestic side of living in the house among the mountains.

Courtesy of Ralph Germann Architectes