Red colored woolen blanket/carpet (Iran) / Antique wooden pillar (China) / Antique Qing dynasty sideboard (China) / Antique wooden basket with lid (China) / Ancient grey pots from the Han dynasty (202 BC –220 AD, China) / Very large, antique wooden wedding basket (China) / Large, dark, antique round pot (China)
Perched amidst the breathtaking French Alps, Chalet Nê stands as a beacon of cultural harmony and architectural innovation, where the essence of East Asian traditions converges with the rugged elegance of Western architecture. We are grateful to have been asked to help weave an authentic Eastern ambiance into this Alpine retreat with our treasures from The Silk Road Collection. Our curated selection of weathered artifacts, including pots, carpets, kimonos, tables, baskets, and much more, now proudly serve as accentuation of the chalet’s aesthetic and enrichment of its soul.
In crafting the serene ambiance of Chalet Nê, the right, specific weathered artifacts play a pivotal role, mirroring the seamless fusion of Eastern tradition and Alpine elegance. This unique design approach has been highlighted in recent press coverage (AD Magazine, Yatzer, Archello), showcasing the depth of cultural exchange embedded within the chalet’s walls.
(Partially seen) Antique boro kimono (Japan) / Low, antique table (China) / Elegant, antique food basket (China) / Finely woven, large, antique wedding basket (China) / Antique little wine pot with woven carrier (China)
A Tapestry of Cultural Exchange
The architectural marvel that is Chalet Nê is a testament to the seamless fusion of Eastern spirituality with the natural Alpine landscape. Inspired by the warmth, community, and artistry of East Asian mountain cultures, A Work of Substance has masterfully crafted a space that resonates deeply with those who step inside. The chalet emerges as a home that celebrates the local building culture, all the while embracing the elemental nature of its highland context.
Antique large sideboard (China) / Antique wooden basket with lid (China) / Four ancient grey pots from the Han dynasty (202 BC –220 AD, China) / Very large, antique wooden wedding basket (China)
Weaving Eastern Threads into the Fabric of Chalet Nê
The weathered décor used in Chalet Nê transcends mere decoration; it represents a dialogue of cultural exchange and a shared passion for exploration. Each piece, thoughtfully integrated into the chalet’s design, tells a story of distant lands, timeless craftsmanship, and the enduring legacy of ancient traditions. From the antique round pots from Hunan, China, to Japanese handcrafted kimonos and intricately woven baskets, these elements serve as a cultural bridge, enriching the living experience with layers of Eastern heritage.
Spotlighting Artisanal Heritage
Key pieces underscore the unique blend of tradition and artistry within Chalet Nê. The antique round pot from Hunan, for example, embodies rustic elegance and the profound simplicity of the wabi-sabi philosophy. Antique wedding baskets from Fujian, China, and opium pillows from the South, stand as testament to the deep-rooted traditions and artisanal heritage of the East, further enhancing the chalet’s narrative of cultural richness and diversity.
Antique Tibetan trunk (Tibet) / Finely woven, antique wedding basket (China)
Envisioning a Sanctuary of Serenity
Chalet Nê offers more than just breathtaking views and serene interiors; it serves as a sanctuary for reflection, imbued with a sense of history, spirituality, and a deep connection to nature. Timeless Asian artifacts are crucial in achieving this ambiance, blending seamlessly with the chalet’s Alpine setting to create an environment where tranquility meets adventure, and the past dialogues with the present.
Antique black pillow box (China) / Antique red lacquered leather opium pillow (China) Antique red lacquered leather opium pillow (China) / Antique red lacquered pointy hat box (China) / Tall, antique bamboo woven basket (China)
A Journey of Discovery
The journey to create Chalet Nê has been one of discovery and a vision of bridging continents and cultures. It celebrates the universal language of art and craftsmanship, showcasing how design can transcend physical boundaries to explore the spiritual and cultural realms. As Chalet Nê stands majestically among the snow-capped peaks, it is a living testament to the timeless allure of Eastern aesthetics and unique weathered treasures on creating spaces that are not only homes but legacies of cross-cultural collaboration.
Antique low table (China) / Bronze incense burner (China) / Antique elegant food basket (China) / Turquoise earthenware opium pillow (China)
We are grateful to have been able to contribute to the creation of Chalet Nê with our collection and are amazed by the depth of cultural richness that these weathered designs bring to the chalet’s aesthetic. It’s a narrative of material, craftsmanship, and history converging to forge not just a dwelling, but a testament to the beauty of cultural harmony.
DESIGNER: A Work of Substance
LOCATION: Haute-Savoie, France
SIZE: 650m2
COMPLETION DATE: 2023
SCOPE OF WORK: Landscape, Architecture, Interior, Branding
PHOTOGRAPHER: Harold de Puymorin
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