SWISS CHALET LIGHTING

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps,  this luxury chalet is the epitome of alpine elegance, blending breathtaking natural surroundings with impeccable interior design. To enhance its warm, inviting ambiance, a carefully curated lighting scheme was essential. The EU team worked to create a scheme for this project by Marina Nickels Architects that balances functionality with atmospheric charm. From soft, glowing accent lights that highlight the rich textures of wood and stone to statement fixtures that add a contemporary edge, every detail was meticulously designed to create a seamless blend of comfort and sophistication. This case study shows how low glare discreet luminaires transformed this chalet into a stunning retreat, elevating both its aesthetic appeal and everyday living experience.

Lighting was strategically placed to enhance both the structure and the materials creating a luxurious atmosphere in the living room. The lighting is mainly indirect, with the Kew 40 fully integrated into the architecture both above and below the beams. They not only highlight the texture of the timber but also emphasise the beams above. The architectural lights are used to accent the rustic aesthetic of the house and the decorative lamps are to provide a diffuse and soft illumination.

The shelving becomes a key, standout element of the space. The light from the Ettas highlight the rhythm of the black structural elements within the shelving. This sequence of light and shadows illuminates the interior of the niches while leaving the wood subtly in shadow creating a luxurious feel in the space.

In the kitchen to the side of the double-height living area, ceilings were lower allowing for the use of Polespring 50 downlights directing task lighting onto the centre of the kitchen island. Pendants add a decorative element. Etta Eyelids were used to light under the kitchen shelving to provide more task lighting on the kitchen counters.

IP rated Polespring 50 downlights give ambient and accent downlight to the gym and spa, creating a warm and relaxing environment. Close to the wall a series of Lucca 30 miniature downlights highlight the texture of the timber wall adding further interest to the space. The lighting here plays an important role as it’s used to separate each space but also to link them together to read it as one big open plan room.

The lighting in the bathroom combines both decorative and architectural luminaires for best effect. Polespring 50 downlights with bronze bezel blend perfectly with the warm, rich brown of the wood, passing almost unnoticed and standing out as a subtle and discreet light source. Lucca 30 have been used to light the niche and to add accent light to the space.

Finally, the staircase is cleverly lit with a combination of a multi-light pendant running throughout the space adding interest throughout, slim decorative wall lights and low level Cazalla floor washers.

The result is a chalet where lighting harmoniously enhances both architecture and atmosphere. Thoughtfully concealed architectural lighting accentuates the natural beauty of the wood, highlighting its rich tones and textures while preserving the chalet’s warm, inviting character. The carefully balanced design creates a space that feels both vibrant and serene—perfect for unwinding in luxurious comfort while taking in the breathtaking alpine surroundings.