Inside the private chalet designed by award-winning designer Kelly Hoppen

Nestled within Champagny-En-Vanoise in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, this luxury chalet puts a contemporary twist on alpine design.

Award-winning South African-British designer Kelly Hoppen is known for her elegant fusion of east-meets-west style. Her signature look is identified by clean lines, neutral colours and careful layers of texture, resulting in a curated aesthetic that’s as refined as it is thoughtful. Most recently, the acclaimed designer was engaged by an exclusive client to reimagine an alpine escape in Champagny-En-Vanoise, a village close to the upmarket ski resort of Courchevel in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France.

“This beautiful old chalet was restored to the last nail. The whole chalet spans over 400 square meters of accommodation and is now a silver taupe wood and sleeps 16 people,” says Kelly Hoppen of the project. “The view over Courchevel from one side is beyond stunning and on New Year’s Eve you can watch the fireworks display either lying in the bath or from the comfort of the bed. It’s breathtaking and the interior melts into the surroundings.”

Textures and materials

The private chalet is a traditional timber construction with overhanging eaves and a gently sloping roof, but inside the chalet concept has been redefined. Kelly Hoppen has established a contemporary monochrome palette throughout the interior, with taupe wooden cladding lining the floors and walls. Industrial-style metal framework and structured lighting lend a sense of modernity, while the furniture selection ranges from shades of grey to black.

Soft furnishings

To soften the effect of such a monochrome palette, Kelly Hoppen has used plush textures to inject warmth into the chalet. Sheepskin, knits, suede, linen upholstery and window furnishings ensure a cosy yet sophisticated finish. Personal touches, such as vintage furniture, old ski posters and black and white photographic prints make the holiday home – which sleeps up to 22 people – feel personalised and lived in.

Functional inclusions

Throughout, Kelly Hoppen has integrated functional features into the floorplan, such as a wine cellar, walk-in larder, alfresco dining and barbecue area, wood-fired hot tub, bunk beds and a ski closet. For the owners, who use this private haven during both winter and summer, it creates an entirely self-sufficient retreat for bi-annual family gatherings and the hosting of events throughout the year.

Finishing touches

A curated selection of furnishings and elevated basics are what polish this modern chalet concept. A vintage glass vase collection by Anthony Stern offers a graphic touch to the entry, while retro tiles add character to the kitchen and bathroom. A Timothy Oulton ‘Cloud’ sofa takes centre stage in the living room, balanced by two vintage boucle chairs from a market in Paris and a petrified wooden log from Andrew Martin. Bedding throughout the chalet has Egyptian high thread count sheets and cashmere blanket. Every detail has been considered to create a warm and relaxed aesthetic with immense style in a neutral colour palette.