Creating A Chic Chalet

Lisa Kanning

That last post sent me into a tailspin.  If I can't actually look at the mountains outside my frost covered windows, I can damn well make sure the inside has a little of that ski chalet warmth I yearn for.  This is one of those stories where you can add and subtract to your heart's content, based on seasonal changes, pocketbook constraints, and the materials or designs that resonate with you.

A buffalo or deer head may or may not call to you, but being enveloped in cowhide is undeniably luxurious.

Aerin Lauder

Architectural elements set against the natural materials, warm woods, and stone that mimics the outside provide the indoor/outdoor connection.  That's what it's really about ~ being grounded; at one with nature.

Kristen Ditmer

Adding fur, real or faux, is one of the easiest ways to "naturalize" your high alpine environment.  I might get carried away with this one, I can't seem to stop myself.  It's kind of a happy accident my home looks like an interesting hunting lodge

Anything made of antler is de rigueur.  I love this inkwell/candle set.  It's a tad less predictable than a chandelier, and would feel at home amongst modern or western decor, whispering the western look like the wind thru Aspen trees.

1st Dibs

or perhaps something more modern, referencing the antlers, without actually being antlers

Emery et cie

Black Forest Bears originally thought to be carved in the Black Forests of Germany, actually come from Switzerland.  Since their 1800's carved roots to today, they remain highly collectable and are synonymous with a lodge look.  They are always whimsical and amusing, even if they truly pose danger!

Antique skis or snow shoes make great authentic art

I decided my husband needed to collect Edward Curtis serigraphs one year.  Edward documented the rites and rituals of a dying nation, but anything that represents the past is a great connection to sacred mountain land.  Are you a Cowboy or an Indian?

Carrie Fell

Pendleton Blankets are making a comeback, but for some, they were never out of style

I love a good basket collection as much as a porcelain collection.  Cluster them together on a piece of furniture or hang a grouping of them on a wall ~ making an impact for mere pennies (depending on the baskets of choice, of course)

Great basket makers

Something covered in sheepskin ~

or shearling ~ Oooh la la…love it!

This wallpaper proves to be popular all over the country, but is especially at home among the pines and poplars surrounding you.

Nobilis

Root, twig, or log furniture lends a rustic air, again, bringing nature in, and in your own way cuts to the core of mountain living.  You can do it casually or elegantly

Anything from Ralph Lauren is a safe bet.  Did I mention I am predicting a Southwestern trend approaching?

Creating a cozy retreat home is the essence of the chic mountain home.  The interest lies in the blending of the rustic and refined, with one eye always out the window

Cathers Home