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Chalet Whymper in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

French Alps Property: Home in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc design by Chevallier Architectes, France

27 Jun 2017

Chalet Whymper, France

Design: Chevallier Architectes

Location: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France – at the base of Mont Blanc

Chalet Whymper

The situation was unique: Chevallier Architectes took on this project when it was on the verge of being abandoned. There were many constraints, but the Chevallier Architectes team studied the file and proposed solutions that would make it possible to successfully complete the construction, including optimization of the space.

Features
The site is very close to the boundary of a protected wilderness, making the building’s orientation and structure key constraints for the team to study and solve. Working in the heart of a large and unavoidable green space, we were able to give the cottage its proper place, including a spectacular view of three iconic peaks, the two Drus and the Aiguille Verte.

The building’s main structure features a classic design, in sharp contrast with its modern addition, which is characterized by generous windows and impressive volumes.

Materials and spatial organization
The materials were chosen and sourced through careful research. For example, the many wood construction elements were recycled, requiring significant colorimetry work to ensure suitably consistent tones.

The mezzanine, suspended above the lounge, is an example of a solution implemented to fulfill one of the owner’s desires – without compromising the view of the Aiguilles de Chamonix mountains. In the same spirit, the architect wanted it to be possible to see the Aiguille Verte and the Drus from the kitchen, or even from the swimming pool in the basement.

Accordingly, one of the kitchen walls is a glass panel facing the Whymper Couloir, while the pool features a window well affording a view of the spectacular scenery. The stone sub-basement supports the cottage and unifies its volumes.

The Chamonix-Mont-Blanc building is equipped with the latest technology, including highly advanced home automation systems, integrated into the project from the very beginning.

The project was completed in fall 2016.

Photographs: Solène Renaud for Chevallier Architectes

Chalet Whymper in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc photos / information received 260617

Location: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France, western Europe

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