Imagine a chalet in Gstaad that dares to break free from the tired tropes of 'Alpine chic' while still embracing the breathtaking Swiss landscape. It’s a bold move, but one that pays off spectacularly. When Antje Hruby, founder of Hruby Studio (https://hruby.studio/), was tasked with redesigning a couple’s four-bedroom home in this iconic Swiss town, she faced a unique challenge: how to create a space that feels authentically Alpine without falling into the trap of overdone clichés. Gstaad’s strict building regulations left little room for external creativity, but Hruby saw this as an opportunity to focus on what truly matters—the connection to the surroundings.
But here’s where it gets interesting: the original 1960s structure had little architectural merit, which allowed Hruby to completely reimagine the chalet’s orientation. Collaborating with Fend & Partner (https://fend-partner.ch/), she strategically repositioned the home to maximize its relationship with the landscape. Large windows and carefully planned interior axes were designed to flood the space with natural light and frame the stunning valley views. And this is the part most people miss: the chalet isn’t just a building; it’s a dialogue with its environment, nestled among historic farmhouses and open fields that whisper tales of Alpine tradition.
Inside, Hruby avoided the predictable trappings of ‘Alpine chic’ by opting for a palette of earthy tones and untreated, tactile materials. Controversially, she embraced patina—not as a flaw, but as a feature. ‘These surfaces are meant to age gracefully,’ she explains, ‘becoming a living archive of the family’s life, much like the weathered wood of nearby farmhouses.’ Stone, wood, and textiles were chosen to echo the surrounding topography, ensuring the chalet feels rooted in its place.
The heart of the home is an open kitchen and dining area, a space that seamlessly blends functionality with warmth. But here’s the twist: double-sided glass vitrines with pivot doors maintain visual connectivity to the outdoors, even when closed. This design not only preserves the sense of openness but also provides privacy for staff during larger gatherings—a detail that’s both practical and ingenious.
One of the project’s biggest challenges? The clients’ request for a lift. With strict fire safety rules and limited design options, Hruby turned the elevator into a ‘cabin,’ lining it with velvet for a touch of luxury. Is it over-the-top, or is it genius? You decide. The staircase, too, became a focal point, with a fluid metal balustrade that adds elegance to an otherwise tight space. ‘Transitional spaces,’ Hruby notes, ‘are the backbone of a home, shaping its atmosphere more than any living room ever could.’
To give the chalet soul, Hruby incorporated vintage pieces and contemporary art, like Philippe Decrauzat’s Blind Painting VII and a Sedilia London sofa in the living room. But the real question is: does this blend of modern and traditional work, or does it risk losing authenticity? Hruby believes it’s the key to creating a home with a ‘unique signature,’ rather than a generic Alpine look. The result? A chalet that feels both deeply personal and unmistakably Swiss.
From the open kitchen to the hand-carved stone basin in the guest bathroom, every detail tells a story. So, what do you think? Is this the future of Alpine design, or is it a step too far from tradition? Let us know in the comments below. And if you’re craving more design inspiration, sign up for the Vogue Living newsletter (https://www.newsletters.news.com.au/vogue) for your weekly dose of interiors magic.
