STYLE HIGH
Modern design icons meet an authentic Alpine look in Silvia and Andrea’s fabulous family ski retreat
silvia and andrea’s passion for skiing inspired the build of their holiday chalet in the alps
With its startling views of snow-covered alpine peaks, Silvia and Andrea’s mountainside retreat puts other ski chalets literally in the shade; a stunning location to not only enjoy the winter slopes, but also for the couple’s family to enjoy a Christmas break in high – very high – style. Astonishingly, this beautifully conceived building, nestling in its surroundings as though it has always been part of the landscape, is just three years old. ‘We were inspired by the architecture of the entire old Savoie region, which at one time also included some of Piedmont, where I was raised in Italy,’ says Silvia. This influence is highlighted through the use of ancient timbers and stone for both the interiors and exterior of the house.
When Silvia and husband Andrea first came to view the site, it was nothing more than a green field ‘with a couple of silver birches in the middle’, as Silvia recalls. ‘We were so lucky because we discovered this place within months of starting our search. As keen skiers Andrea and I knew Chamonix well, but this location was even more important for us because we wanted an easy-to-reach destination from across Europe as travel is intrinsic to both our careers. Also, we’d like our daughters to have plenty of options for study and work in the future,’ says Silvia. ‘Transport links are ideal and compared to other ski resorts in the Alps, Chamonix offers a great mix of public services and facilities, as well as excellent entertainment and shopping. There’s also a true international community here.’
While based in their main home in Milan, Silvia worked alongside architect Annalisa Mauri to draw up plans for the chalet, which, naturally, had to be constructed from the foundations up. ‘Our brief to Annalisa was for a comfortable, easy-to-use building, teaming elegant, contemporary fixtures with a touch of classical mountain style,’ says Silvia. The idea was to source reclaimed timber for the structural elements, such as the beams and roofing, while securing the core with reinforced concrete. The double-height living area was an integral part of the design. ‘I oversaw all of the work once the site was excavated,’ adds Silvia, ‘and continued to supervise right until completion, even though I was pregnant with Anna [the couple’s youngest daughter] for the final four months of the project.’
In all, it took a little over 18 months for construction to be finished. ‘Then we drew on Annalisa’s expertise to help fit out the chalet,’ says Silvia. Reclaimed oak flooring and cladding is a constant theme throughout the house, while more on-trend touches, such as the steel lining the chimney breast and supporting the floating staircase, add an industrial element to the look. Practical considerations are well to the fore, too – the ski/boot room and bedrooms and bathrooms on the ground floor give the family the chance to change in comfort once they return from the slopes, so freeing the living spaces up above of any clutter. These latter rooms also offer a measure of privacy, as the upper floors are not overlooked by any of the neighbouring properties.
The kitchen is one of Annalisa’s designs, chiming in with the decor downstairs with its waxed-iron extractor hood and African black marble worktop. Italian excellence is evident wherever you look: ranging from the stunning, custom-made chandelier hanging in the double-height living area to the chic seating, subtle soft furnishings and stylish accessories. The bedrooms and bathrooms are also masterclasses in modern minimalism, showcasing standout pieces while keeping the schemes pared back and pristine. Furnishings were sourced from a mix of well-known brands, small independent companies and second-hand shops, and some pieces were designed by Annalisa and made to order.
In keeping with the low-key ethos of the decor, Silvia doesn’t go overboard when dressing the house for the Yuletide festivities. And who would, knowing that the sparkling and snowy slopes of the Alps can provide all the Christmas cheer one could need. ‘It’s just perfect,’ says Silvia. ‘I’ve been skiing since I was four and now my daughters can enjoy my passion, too. I know they’re going to love this place as much as I do…’
To see more of Annalisa Mauri’s architectural and design portfolio, visit annalisamauri.it