We are thrilled to be able to share some details of an exciting new project on which we have been working for some time. A few years ago we were approached by a couple who already owned a chalet in Les Gets, but were looking for a larger and more luxurious property. They liked our work on previous projects such as Chalet Joux Plane, La Maison and Chalet Sapphire, and wanted to collaborate with us on their future venture.
However, at this stage our clients had not found either suitable property to renovate, or (preferably) land to develop accordingly. We introduced them to some local estate agents and in the meantime worked with them on honing their requirements for the future property. There were a few key requirements to consider: Firstly, our client has retained a close friendship with seven childhood friends, with whom they frequently holiday as a group, so it was essential that the property had at least eight bedrooms. Secondly, the project was to be a luxury chalet that would be operated by catered chalet operator Summit Special – a Les Gets based company owned by friends of the owner. The design, interior and facilities were to rival the most luxurious of our previous projects. Finally, and critically, the location had to be right in the centre of Les Gets – within a short walk of the bars, restaurants and ski lifts. Nothing further afield was acceptable, which is nigh on impossible to find!
After over a year of searching, a plot became available via the exclusive chalet constructor Grosset Janin. They had secured rights to an old run-down chalet with surrounding land – on the prestigious Route du Front du Neige, next to chalet-hôtel Le Sabaudia, only 200 metres from the main ski lifts of Les Chavannes.
We worked with the clients and Grosset Janin on the design of the new property, and at a very early stage we recommended Hervé Marullaz as the architect, as we wanted his exceptional creativity and vision. However, before the sale was completed, we were all thrown a huge curve-ball. The plot is in a planning zone which means that we could not build a private chalet – any redevelopment is required to have a commercial element. After much debate Hervé suggested that instead of a chalet, we could build a luxury boutique hotel, for which the owners would have priority for reservations!
And this is where we are! We are working on the designs for what will become not only the first five star hotel in Les Gets, but amazingly the first in the whole Portes du Soleil region. We are so excited!
Site progress has been unavoidably delayed by Covid, but it is now moving forwards apace, and we delighted to have been appointed as the interior architects and interior designers for this prestigious new venture.
I will keep you updated on the progress!
