This early 20th century Swiss chalet in the traditional alpine village of Gryon is constructed in the vernacular « strickbau » style. The proposed addition is a light-weight timber structure that rests on an existing lower ground plinth and tucks under the chalet's overhanging eaves. The building sits to the edge and steps back to allow breathing space from large birch and pine trees.

Sliding doors step onto the balcony to face the mountains. A large strip window appears frameless as it face the trees. A more private facade faces the road with only a small window. The douglas fir timber structure was prefabricated and sourced locally from France. Rosewood stained horizontal bands of douglas fir mimic the decorative existing pine construction. These playful planes break-up the douglas fir cladding and connect to the balcony handrail.

The interior is rich and warm with natural douglas fir, reclaimed Canadian maple floor boards, and the existing pine. The step back in the facade creates a line of lower storage units that are hidden beneath the strip window.

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