The picture of a Swiss chalet brings to mind a quaint little cottage tucked away in an alpine meadow. These cottages usually have outside gingerbread trim, floral motifs inside and outside and warm wood everywhere you look. And traditional chalets are unmistakably homey and welcoming. Whether you would like to decorate a Swiss chalet, or simply delight in this type of decoration, you can look forward to creating a comfortable, cozy atmosphere.
Walls, Floors and Ceilings
A Swiss chalet interior reflects the natural environment around it using plenty of unfinished, unpainted wood. Wood paneling on walls and ceilings made from soft woods, like pine and birch, provides warmth and comfort. It is possible to add character with reclaimed barn wood planks on walls and exposed wood beams on ceilings. Go for organic aged patinas of silver grey or deep, golden amber. Among the most notable characteristics of Swiss chalets is wood parquet flooring. Parquet flooring can produce the floor appear basket-weaved, in a herringbone pattern or other geometrical shapes.
Traditional Elements
Should you prefer a traditional look of a Swiss chalet interior, use mainly white fabrics and textiles. Bedding may have a light shade woven into the stuff, with mild blue being the most common for this style. Crocheted lace for curtains, tablecloths and doilies with embroidery on couches, cushions and table runners provide a classic Swiss state feel. Drape a wool blanket over a conventional sofa to cozy up the living room. Built-in seating and cupboards, ornamental woodwork and intricately decorated furniture are additional common conventional elements. Include new flowers whenever possible or use silk flowers in rustic earthenware vases or a vintage ceramic pitcher. Stylistic painted flowers frequently embellish the gingerbread trim and fretwork of vintage Swiss chalets.
Contemporary Furnishings
The sleek, clean lines of minimalist, contemporary furniture fits surprisingly well with the rustic background of natural wood interiors. Create a unified, organic feel with the delicate textures of wool, hemp and linen upholstery. Neutral hues of beige, ivory, brown and tan mix seamlessly with the natural, earthy tones from the wood. When selecting wood furniture, use the exact same wood species or finishes that match or complement the walls, ceilings and floors. Alternatively, whitewashed wood paneling provides a clean, crisp look for a larger range of colour palettes. Provide extra heat and a chic look to chairs, beds and couches with faux fur pillows and throws. Throw in a few rustic or vintage elements to add charm, like an old wooden chest for extra linen storage or antique lantern style wall fittings.
Eclectic Accessories
The near proximity of neighboring European nations often results in an eclectic mix of styles in this decorative strategy. A vintage claw foot bathtub and pedestal sink create the ideal backdrop for a female, Swiss and French-inspired bathroom. Include wildlife motifs on fabrics, artwork or sculptures. Mount deer or elk antlers on the wall or use them to create Alpine-inspired decor, like lamps. Brighten a wood cabinet with vintage Swiss chalet pottery featuring little blue and green leaves and trees. Once a favorite souvenir of Switzerland, a Swiss Chalet styled cuckoo clock produces an intriguing accessory. For the Swiss-styled ski chalet, mount a pair of vintage skis or ski poles as wall art and hang a canvas painting of the snow-covered Swiss Alps.