A modern wooden house in the Swiss Alps

In the heart of the Valais Alps, in a small village above the town of Sion, a contemporary wooden house project has come to life as the result of a shared vision between two architecture enthusiasts with contrasting tastes. Located at an altitude of around 900 metres, this wooden house, designed by Kontio, the renowned Finnish builder, perfectly embodies the union of modern architecture and traditional log construction.

A meeting of two worlds: Natural wood and contemporary design

He has a deep appreciation for natural materials, the charm and warmth of Scandinavian wood, its authenticity and close connection to nature. Originally from Brazil, she loves clean lines, open spaces and minimalist forms – a true admirer of modern design and contemporary architecture.

Instead of choosing between the two styles, the couple envisioned a project that would bring their two worlds together. With the help of Kontio, a global specialist in wooden house construction, they were able to bring their ambitious idea to life. Kontio’s innovative technologies make it possible to create modern wooden houses with elegant designs while preserving the thermal, aesthetic and environmental benefits of wood.

A strong architectural concept: “The box within the box”

To bring their dream to life, they commissioned Jean-Michel Martignoni, a renowned architect with whom they had worked before. He proposed the concept of “the box within the box,” also known as “the aquarium in the box.”

From the outside, the house looks like a contemporary wooden cube, perfectly integrated into its Alpine surroundings. Inside, a second volume made of glass is set slightly inward. This inner glass cube allows natural light to enter and opens the living spaces towards the majestic mountain landscape. The solid wood provides protection and privacy, while the glass brings modernity, transparency and lightness.

This architectural concept perfectly symbolises the union of the two visions: natural wood and contemporary design, in a constant dialogue between the interior and exterior.

A collaborative project inspired by multiple cultures

The project gained even greater depth through a four-way collaboration on the interior design. The wife’s godmother, a world-renowned Brazilian architect, contributed her vision to the lighting, designer staircase, entrance and interior finishes. Her Brazilian influences, combined with Italian inspiration, created a unique atmosphere that brings together Latin American architecture, European design and Scandinavian materials.

Every detail of the house was designed to reflect their shared identity. The warmth of Finnish wood, the purity of modern lines and cultural touches from Brazil can be found in every room. The result is a warm, refined and deeply personal modern wooden home.

An eco-friendly and sustainable home in the Alps

Building at an altitude of 900 metres presents challenges: the climate, logistics and adaptation to the terrain. However, these limitations were turned into strengths. Thanks to Kontio’s expertise, this eco-friendly wooden house is perfectly adapted to its surroundings. It was designed to reduce its carbon footprint, maximise solar gain and provide excellent natural thermal insulation.

The materials used are sustainable, renewable and environmentally friendly. Kontio’s laminated logs (CLT Smart Log™) are treated without toxic substances and contribute to healthy, energy-efficient construction. The structure blends naturally into the Alpine landscape while offering modern comfort and high-end aesthetics.

A house that tells a story

One year after moving in, the owners express their satisfaction. This “designer” wooden house is much more than simply a place to live. It reflects their story, their relationship and their love of beautiful things. It embodies a vision of architecture in which contrasts complement one another and every space creates an emotional response.

The project shows that it is possible to build a contemporary wooden house that is elegant, eco-friendly and unique, right in the heart of the Alps. It is an inspiring example for anyone dreaming of a sustainable, beautiful and tailor-made home.