Ramshackle alpine shed transformed into a rustic mansion in France

An old shed in an alpine valley of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc in France needed some love, but local planning laws put restrictions on what renovations could be made.

So an architect hired Chevalier Architectes to work within the existing framework to create a bespoke new luxury home with a killer view. Hit the jump for the finer details and get inspired to renovate your own mountain mansion.

Achieving a finely tuned balance between a contemporary and rustic aesthetic, not to mention material sustainability, Chevalier Architectes used high quality openwork siding for the facade and roof. The latter had to be laid on top of a waterproof layer to protect against snow. Meanwhile, rusted steel boxes hold glazing to mix up any material monotony and further reinforce the weathered country home ambience.

The interior detailing is tasteful, with different kinds of wood used for flooring, framing, staircases and more. Carefully hewn timber strips also act as decorative trim in the bedrooms and around entrances and windows, creating a warm and relaxing environment. Living space is relegated downstairs, while the bedrooms upstairs each have their own adjoining bathrooms.

Thanks to many large and carefully oriented openings in the facade, natural light illuminates the interior at just the right angle at the right time of day, reducing the need for artificial lighting and excess energy use. Albeit clearly a large and luxurious space that is not attainable by everyone, this renovation is refined and replicable.