A transformed chalet by Studio Razavi redesigns an existing structure into a well-crafted Alpine retreat
This overhauled chalet in the French Alps blends traditional forms with a highly bespoke interior

High up in the French Alps, in a resort fabled for its altitude, lay an all-concrete chalet, a rather unhappy attempt at modernism within the traditional residential architecture of the region. The clients wanted to update the structure and give it back some genuine character, and they approached Studio Razavi, the firm founded in 2008 by Alireza Razavi with offices in Paris, New York and London.
The living space in the refurbished chalet
Studio Razavi's modern chalet transformation
As the architects note, despite the relative youth of the structure, all façade changes had to be subject to landmarks approval in a region where every building is gone over with a fine toothcomb to protect its Alpine character. Not only that, but the interior posed another challenge as load-bearing concrete walls had to be modified and altered to give the chalet a more open and amenable layout.
Large windows frame the Alpine views
After four decades in the mountain air, the chalet had acquired a lived-in look that tied it nicely to its surroundings. ‘From conceptual design onwards, we were mindful not to lose the chalet’s existing façade patina,’ the architects say. ‘Therefore the changes to the interior layout were carefully weighted in light of their exterior impact.’ This weaving of old and new is especially apparent in the surviving timber components like lintels, which currently contrast strongly with the new cladding and roof structure. ‘In a few years, hopefully it will all become a coherent ensemble,’ the architects note.
Details of the exterior and balcony of the chalet
Inside, the emphasis is on simple, enduring craftsmanship with a nod to the pared-back, hard-wearing style that has defined chalet architecture for centuries. The architects write about creating a ‘hierarchy of openings to the outside’, ensuring that each room has its own unique relationship with the landscape, with a combination of large picture windows, smaller portholes and diaphanous curtains to preserve privacy while also conveying some of the rich mountain light.
Interior details are deliberately simple
The generously scaled project covers 214 sq m, with living areas tucked into the eaves to benefit from ceilings that are raised up into the roof. A modern interpretation of the traditional stone chimney takes pride of place, with subtle layers of stone mimicking the mountain ridges that surround the house. There’s a bunk room for the children, while key features like the staircase have been rendered with utter restraint, featuring a slender metal balustrade that’s deliberately at odds with the solidity of the stone façade and overhanging roof.
Every surface in the chalet's revised layout has been carefully crafted
Razavi studied at Columbia University in New York and Paris’s Ecole Nationale des Arts Décoratifs before working with Peter Eisenman, Shigeru Ban Architects, and others. His office defines its approach as a synthesis of ‘technique and architectural sensitivity… free of stylistic limitations, open to context’, and recent projects have covered everything from private houses to transportation and mixed-use projects.
Bespoke details include the wooden bath and children's bunk room
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Jonathan Bell has written for Wallpaper* magazine since 1999, covering everything from architecture and transport design to books, tech and graphic design. He is now the magazine’s Transport and Technology Editor. Jonathan has written and edited 15 books, including Concept Car Design, 21st Century House, and The New Modern House. He is also the host of Wallpaper’s first podcast.
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