Firn

High Altitude Living, Grounded in Heritage

Firn is a traditional Swiss chalet perched above Gstaad, surrounded by pine forests, snowy ridgelines, and absolute silence. First built in the early 1970s by local craftsmen using centuries-old techniques, the home still wears its history in the grain of its wood and the lines of its roof. Its recent restoration in 2020 introduced a refined palette of materials and conveniences while fiercely protecting the original soul of the structure.

Set against the Alpine backdrop, the home’s façade features hand-carved wooden balconies, deep eaves, and original timber beams. The pitched roof, built to shed snow naturally, gives the home its instantly recognizable alpine silhouette. Every stone used in the foundation and chimney was sourced from the surrounding region — this isn’t a modern copy of a chalet. It is one.

Wood, Warmth, and Wide-Open Spaces

Step inside Firn and you’re wrapped in timber. The walls, floors, and ceilings are all clad in alpine larch and aged oak, treated with natural oils to maintain their texture and warmth. The main living area is anchored by a monumental stone fireplace, where firelight dances across the high ceilings and soft furs. The open-plan design allows the dining area and kitchen to spill into the space — framed by panoramic windows that look out over snow-covered slopes.

The kitchen is simple but considered: brushed steel counters, an AGA stove, built-in wine storage, and handmade cabinetry. Meals are typically enjoyed indoors during the winter, and on the wraparound balcony in the summer. The dining area comfortably seats ten, with custom lighting made from reclaimed antlers and vintage glass.

There are seven bedrooms in total — three with en-suite bathrooms, two with lofted sleeping areas, and one designed as a cozy bunk room for children or guests. The master suite features a reading alcove, private terrace, and a bathroom with a deep soaking tub and mountain views.

Life at Elevation

Firn’s outdoor offerings match its interior charm. There’s a large, cedar hot tub positioned to face the valley — steaming even in the heart of winter — and a sheltered outdoor dining space built with reclaimed beams. The grounds also include a stone fire pit, a boot-drying hut, and a snow-ready garage with room for skis, snowmobiles, and mountain bikes.

Access to the chalet is year-round, with a private alpine road maintained through the winter. Gstaad’s village center is just 10 minutes away, giving you full access to restaurants, shops, and one of the region’s most respected international schools — all without compromising privacy.

Firn is more than a chalet. It’s a sanctuary shaped by altitude and time. It offers not just a home, but a slower pace, a clearer breath, and a deeper connection to what matters.