the product

the land

Buying property in the Alps is an expensive game. One key to the best investment potential and getting the most enjoyment out of a building is location.

Having been in the area for a long time and cultivated friendships plus a good reputation we are usually able to take first pick of new land coming up for sale; often before it comes on the market. This ensures the best plots, no shady valley spots.

the structure

Our chalets are formed on a solid concrete basement with a wooden structure on top. This will either be an ‘Ossature bois’ or post and beam system of construction allowing a more modern, open layout; or a more traditional ‘Madrier’ or interlocking timbers system resulting in a traditional chalet look. The size of madrier we use is so thick that it negates the need for insulation and the outside walls of interjoined wood become the inside walls as well.  Which ever system is best suited to meet your requirements, architects' drawings are passed to the local sawmill where the timber is transformed for the project.  The structure is then constructed on site where the addition of the roof and windows completes the shell.  Floors are covered with a sound proofing concrete screed, so avoiding squeaky floorboards and the shell is insulated to the highest standards to meet the requirements of winters in the mountains. Local plumbers, electricians, carpenters and tilers work together to produce a top quality finish.  chalet construction then guarantee the whole structure against defect for ten years - something similar to the NHBC guarantee in the UK.

the finish

It is often the case that people have to settle for a poor finish to their ski homes. However, our clients will tell a different story with only top class fittings used throughout the property; often those chosen by themselves. If solid granite worktops or roll top baths appeal to you then we can accommodate; if limestone floors or an AGA oven is what you have dreamt of we will arrange it. We understand that some clients will simply want to choose the colour of the tiles, whilst others want to get involved in the creation of a bespoke designed property.