Chalet Heinz Julen rips up the rulebook when it comes to alpine living.

At first glance the building looks like a traditional wooden chalet, but step inside and this 300 sq ft Swiss apartment offers loft living at its most extravagant.

Designed by architect Heinz Julen as his own home, the three-bedroom apartment features floor-to-ceiling glass windows inset with a roaring fireplace, and unobstructed views over the slopes and village. The main living space comprises a sitting and dining room, with a table that can be lowered from the apartment’s double-height ceiling.

A baby Steinway piano sits in one corner, and the room is crowned by a chandelier designed by Julen.

Elsewhere, a steel staircase leads up to two of the bedroom suites; and there’s also a hot tub second lounge area on this level, which look out onto the mountains.

Available to rent from Mountain Exposure via One Fine Stay for $2,288 per night, the ski chalet is just two minutes walk from the top of the Omnia Hotel lifts, which take you to the heart of Zermatt.

Added perks include discounted access to the Backstage Hotel Genesis Spa – also designed by Julen – and in-house catering services.

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