An immersive alpine chalet in the heart of London, layered with sumptuous textures, tactile fabrics in rich autumnal hues and the welcoming glow of a cosy fireplace — what’s not to like? Although October’s weather remains relatively mild by seasonal standards, there is something particularly inviting about stepping into this wintery retreat at Decorex 2026.
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| Photo: Decorex / Claudia Dorsch |
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| Claudia Dorsch |
By transforming the VIP Lounge into an immersive alpine retreat, Claudia's installation invites visitors to experience the evolution of chalet design through a considered combination of architectural heritage, contemporary materials and the convivial spirit of European ski culture, says Dorsch.
Running from 11–14 October, Decorex, the premium interiors trade fair at Kensington Olympia, London, provides a platform for Dorsch to challenge conventional perceptions of the mountain home. Moving beyond the familiar association with dark timber, rustic finishes and traditional alpine motifs, her concept presents the chalet as a more architectural, tactile and adaptable living environment, designed for year-round use rather than exclusively for winter holidays.
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| Photo: Decorex / Claudia Dorsch |
Drawing inspiration from the heritage of alpine architecture and the glamour of 1970s skiing in Switzerland, France and Italy, the designer's intention is to offer visitors more than a conventional hospitality space, recreating the atmosphere of a well-established mountain home shaped by time, use and shared experiences.
“I wanted visitors to slow down and experience Alpine rituals,” Dorsch explains. “We have built a home inside an exhibition hall, and my hope is that once you step through the curtain you forget that entirely, and simply feel you are somewhere in the mountains, in a house that has been lived in for years.”
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| Photo by Lucia Carpio |
The project’s title encapsulates Dorsch’s approach to design: revisiting the ideas, lifestyles and craftsmanship of earlier generations while adapting them to contemporary needs. Rather than reproducing a traditional chalet or creating what she describes as a luxury hotel in a mountain setting, she has sought a balance between historical references and modern living.
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| Photo by Lucia Carpio |
“I don't begin with style. I begin with behaviour. I don't design rooms. I design rituals,” she says, placing the way people use and experience a space at the centre of the design process.
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| Photo by Lucia Carpio |
The experience begins at the entrance, where a bespoke tapestry by Embroidery by Design incorporates a collection of heritage-inspired badges designed by Dorsch. Visitors pass through a fur-clad threshold and a shimmering silvered-metal curtain supplied by Amron Architectural. Manufactured by Catalan specialist Kriskadecor, the curtain introduces a striking contemporary element while referencing the visual language of 1970s ski culture. Founded in 1926, the company celebrates its centenary in 2026, adding another connection between heritage and innovation.
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| Photo by Lucia Carpio |
At the heart of the chalet, a sculptural suspended fireplace by French manufacturer JC Bordelet, supplied by Caleo, establishes the principal gathering point. Four curved seating areas, inspired by the conversation pits of the 1970s, are arranged around the fire to encourage informal interaction.
Upholstered by Ben Whistler Blue Label, the sofas, armchairs, poufs and bespoke banquettes combine bouclé, sheepskin and leather. Textiles from Romo’s Kirkby Design line, Pierre Frey, Dedar and Misia Paris contribute to the layered material palette, while House of Hackney’s Plantasia wallpaper in tobacco brings a woodland reference into the interior.
Lighting plays an equally important role. Cameron Design House’s sculptural Vetta pendant hangs above the fireplace, while its Pilvi clusters illuminate the bar seating areas. Rechargeable wall and picture lights from Pooky provide softer, more intimate illumination. A bespoke USM room divider introduces structure to the sloping lounge architecture while accommodating books, plants and decorative objects.
The connection with traditional craftsmanship is reinforced by hand-carved mouldings from Ebanisteria Marelli, the Italian family atelier with which Dorsch has collaborated on several award-winning chalet projects. The carved details provide a sense of permanence and continuity, setting the historical foundations against which the contemporary furnishings and lighting are placed.
The chalet is organised into distinct zones that reflect the different rhythms of alpine hospitality. The Bar & Dining Club features a bespoke bar in backlit onyx and burr walnut, created by Orange Tree Joinery, providing a focal point for entertaining and socialising.
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| Photo: Decorex / Claudia Dorsch |
Connected in an adjacent space is the Mountain Terrace that evokes the relaxed atmosphere of après-ski. A DJ supplies the soundtrack for leisurely afternoons from a customisable console by Club Kiva, while deckchairs upholstered in a bespoke stripe of rich red, blue and green, designed by Dorsch with British fabric atelier Colours of Arley, establish an outdoor-inspired setting.
Tom Dixon’s Melt pendants hang overhead, their fluid forms referencing molten rock and melting ice. The lighting reinforces the project’s wider approach: drawing on the natural environment and alpine associations without resorting to literal interpretations of mountain scenery.
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| Photo by Lucia Carpio |
Art and collectible objects are integral to the installation. A varied selection of artworks, ceramics, glass and sculpture has been commissioned or selected from McKay Williamson, 99 Concepts and Nadia Waterfield Fine Art, giving the interior the character of an evolving personal collection rather than a staged showroom.
The sensory experience extends beyond visual design and materiality. Birdsongs on the terrace, the sound of a crackling fire, film footage of mountain life and a fragrance evoking alpine air, pine and resin combine to create a more immersive environment.
For more information on Decorex, click HERE.
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