chalets

A chalet is a type of rural dwelling characterized by its wooden construction, a steeply pitched gabled roof, and wide overhanging eaves. Originating in the Swiss and Alpine regions as seasonal farmhouses, chalets have evolved into a widely recognized form of mountain housing and vacation residence.

Traditional chalets are timber-framed, log, or plank houses with exposed wooden beams and balconies. The ground floor is often stone or masonry to resist moisture, while the upper floors are clad in wood. Roofs are steep to shed heavy snow, with long eaves that shelter terraces and doors. Interiors typically feature an open-plan living area centered on a large fireplace or hearth, with timber detailing and built-in seating.

Regional variations exist in the Alps, including Switzerland, France, Austria, and southern Germany, where the style adapts to local materials and climate. In North America, "chalet" commonly refers to mountain vacation homes designed in a similar aesthetic, even when built outside alpine regions. The term is also used decoratively in hotel and resort design.

History: chalets originated as seasonal cattle herders' huts in the 18th century or earlier, spreading with alpine agriculture and tourism. The style became fashionable in the 19th and early 20th centuries through Swiss tourism and alpine guides, influencing broader architectural trends in mountain regions and in resort architecture worldwide.

Today, chalets are built in a range of materials, from traditional timber to modern timber-frame or log-and-stone combinations. Modern chalets emphasize energy efficiency, sustainable forestry, and comfortable, informal interiors, while preserving the characteristic timberwork and alpine ambiance.