Zannier Hotels La Chalet Megéve, France

Below the white peaks of Mont Blanc

Situated between the ski resort of La Clusaz and the world-famous ski slopes of Chamonix, we find Zannier Hotels Le Chalet in Megéve, considered by many to be the most charming village in the French Alps. Megéve is a very pleasant ski resort that has managed to preserve the genuine French feeling and atmosphere. Le Chalet is a very exclusive hotel with twelve spacious and uniquely decorated suites, a restaurant that had three stars in the Michelin Guide earlier (and one of the very few to receive a ”perfect score” (20/20) in the French restaurant guide Gault Millau), a cocktail and wine bar, and a luxurious spa and sauna facility.

On the terrace, overlooking the white peaks of Mont Blanc, hotel guests can settle into furniture from Skargaarden’s elegant Djurö collection and enjoy the unique view.

”At Zannier Hotels Le Chalet, the essence of simplicity throughout the design and experience flows effortlessly into the pristine surrounding white peaks of the Mont Blanc Mountain range. Our interiors are pared back, and the atmosphere is relaxed. We were looking to convey a similar atmosphere for our terrace. We aimed to convey a feeling of relaxation, comfort, and tranquility that echo the peaceful atmosphere from the French Alps”, says Quentin Guiraud, Head of Marketing & Communication for Zannier Hotels.

Four decisive factors in the choice of furniture

He explains that four factors guided the hotel’s choice of new outdoor furniture: durability, comfort, safety, and a responsible supplier.

”Due to its localization in medium-altitude and frequent snow, the furniture had to resist harsh weather and frequent use. We were seeking weather-resistant materials like teak or treated wood that would avoid rust, fading, or corrosion. We also needed furniture that requires little upkeep to maintain”, says Quentin Guiraud and continues:

”Of course, we also thought about the comfort of our guests, whether they spend a few minutes or hours sitting on our terrace. Selecting comfortable and well-padded seating options was essential, keeping in mind aspects such as backrest design, seat height, and cushions. As we take sustainability very seriously, we also looked for a supplier with responsibly manufactured products.”

”Finally, we needed furniture that was secure and stable, particularly in rainy or snowy weather.”

According to Quentin Guiraud, creating a functional and well-designed outdoor environment requires good planning and a clear idea of what you want to achieve.

”For us at Zannier Hotels, the most important is to take the surroundings into consideration. All starts with good planning. Defining the available space was key at Zannier Hotels le Chalet, where seasons are short, terrace demand is high, and frequent furniture moving might be needed. During winter, for instance, half of the terrace is covered by snow, imposing constant adjustments on seat placements. We decided to opt for wooden material to fit with the surroundings, which is also the most commonly used material in our rooms.”

Simple and timeless

With its charming and traditional Alpine architecture, the interior design of Zannier Hotels Le Chalet is based on a minimalist philosophy.

”When it comes to choosing a style, we like to start with one or two words, that summarize the place. With its charming traditional alpine architecture, the interior design of Zannier Hotels Le Chalet is based on a minimalist philosophy. Simplicity was then a keyword. Timelessness was another key point in choosing the furniture, and making sure it will match the quality and design of our premises.”

Skargaarden’s Djurö collection met all the requirements and expectations that Zannier Hotels had when they started looking for new furniture for the hotel’s terrace.

Selecting providers that share similar values is very important for Zannier Hotels. Like Skargaarden, we have a “less is more” approach, and are very careful to offer the best experience to inspire the greatest stories in life. We were particularly charmed by the simple yet very comfortable design of the Djurö collection, which brings a modern twist to classic sun loungers. We wanted items in teakwood, and the quality of Skargaarden’s range combined with the sustainability aspect convinced us.

He says that the terrace acts as an outdoor extension of the living room, which is the heart of the hotel with a wonderful view of the mountains.

”All day long, whether it is during the winter or the summer season, our clients can relax and unwind on our panoramic terrace, and be served there. The furniture must reflect the surrounding alpine beauty while being discrete enough to let the panorama speak for itself.”

Skargaarden is known for its sustainable and quality craftsmanship, which Quentin Guiraud explains fits well with Zannier Hotel’s values.

”For us, sustainability should come from the beginning, from the concept itself. When it comes to furniture, it is very much linked to the notion of durability. Our hotel is open all year long, under different climates, so it was essential that we selected a brand that would have the same approach to durability. This aspect, coupled with Skargaarden’s expertise in proposing materials and fabrics that do not change in quality over time.”

Quentin says that the first reactions from guests were very encouraging and positive.

”They loved the new terrace and spent a lot of time in the furniture overlooking the Alps.”