The chalet pictured above appears as though it could have been perched on this Alpine slope for two-or-three-hundred years, preserved with great care and affection by its succession of stewards. But in fact it was only recently constructed by antiquarian and interior designer Axel Vervoordt and his wife, May. Sited with an enviable view high above Verbier, Switzerland – an international playground for European high society – the Vervoordt-designed chalet is constructed of local stone and wood. “All of the wood is very simple”, noted Axel, “without carving” … seeking “a kind of minimalism, a way of thinking as well as a way of reusing the old, so as not to kill more trees or destroy nature.”
The rustic, minimal interiors – orchestrated in Vervoordt’s imitable elemental style – allow the materials and their natural patinas and the art of the hand-crafted shine through. In an area known for its top quality skiing and glamorous nightlife the Vervoordt’s were more interested in nature and the utilization and re-use of the old in favor of the new and glitzy. Most of the furniture is what Axel refers to as “Montagnard”, or rustic furniture, both antique and new, made by local mountain craftsmen. The simplicity of these pieces allow them to mix with furniture made by mountain craftsmen from myriad locales. An overall sense of quiet and serentity pervades throughout the chalet, where attention to the mellowed pine paneling, not art, for instance, strikes a meditative note.
In lieu of providing descriptions for each photo I think it’s best to allow them speak to you on a soul level. Enjoy this meditative journey into the soul of a very special dwelling.
From Veranda and Russian AD magazines.