Luxury Ski Chalets: Heinz Julen Loft (Zermatt, Switzerland)

A huge 300m2 Manhattan style loft set in a wooden chalet in the Swiss Alps; it combines acres of glass, steel, textured concrete and wood in a unique symphony of fusion architecture created by local star designer Heinz Julen. The Loft was Heinz‘s private home where he hosted many rock-star parties.

This is our most stunning and spacious 6 person chalet. It of course includes all modern comforts such as a large TV with DVD and cable, sound system, free wireless broadband internet access, a well appointed kitchen and a sauna. Created as designer Heinz Julen‘s private home, it is full of his unique touches.

From this level a metal staircase leads up to the mezzanine, which has another sofa chill-out area with TV; a free standing Jacuzzi bath, a cosy dining alcove, a galley kitchen (with cupboard handles made out of bent soup spoons), a cantilevered bar area and a guest toilet. As you walk on this floor you will notice that the floating feeling it creates is due to it being made entirely of opaque glass with subtle inset lighting. Both levels of the Loft are served by a private lift (elevator).

Very airy in feel, due to the extensive use of glass, the Loft has a unique bird’s nest view of the village and the Mischabel mountains. The sense of space, light and closeness to nature that the Loft provides is unparalleled: there are no barriers between the nature outside and the home space inside – all is fluid and free. On the two sides overlooking the village, the walls consist of floor to ceiling glass, with French windows 6 metres high leading to a large terrace. (There is a white electric exterior curtain that can wrap itself around all that glass if need be). The ceiling is supported by seven columns, while the glass walls have an inset fireplace and three alcoves.

The main loft living area has a suspended and illuminated table which can be raised and lowered from coffee table, to dining table, to ceiling height; the latter creating a large party space. In one corner you can play on a baby grand Steinway piano, while in another you can sink into a large sofa and gaze simultaneously at the stunning view over the village and at the crackling fireplace set into the glass wall. Around you: two desks, jack-in-the-box armchairs, a wall of art, and a signature Heinz Julen chandelier. In fact, all the sought-after furniture in the Loft is designed by Heinz.

Access is a 2 minute walk from the top of the Omnia Hotel lifts, for which you will have a special key. The village end of the lift delivers you to the heart of Zermatt, in the main street close to the church. Its location perched high on a hill gives it spectacular views, yet access to the heart of the village is easy.

Sleeps: 6
Rental rates: from CHF14,900 to CHF28,000

Source: ultimateluxurychalets.com