Strategic restyling in special slalom.
Working with the Chalet Fiocco di Neve in Pinzolo is always a unique experience, not only because of the cosy environment, but above all because of the people who run it. The relationship with the brothers Matteo and Marco has always been informal and pleasant. We passed each other several times at the fair and finally, this year in Bolzano, Marco stopped by the stand to tell me that they needed to renew some armchairs and chairs in the lounge.
So, one Sunday morning, I set off alone to meet them. Marco had warned me that I would also have to face his mother, a true perfectionist, famous for not compromising on aesthetics and practicality. The challenge was great: the chairs had to be sturdy to withstand the uneven, almost wavy stone-like floor, which put a strain on the legs of the furniture.
I arrived prepared with an innovative solution: an X-shaped cross to reinforce the legs of the chairs. This system would ensure greater strength, even with customers who liked to rock or push back their chairs. This approach proved to be successful. In the end, we opted for the chair and Merano armchair, with a larger, squarer seat, all in walnut colour to match the existing tables and upholstered in red faux-nubuck, like the old chairs.
A whole new and cosy atmosphere for guests to come.
For the smaller areas, I suggested alternating chairs and armchairs to make it easier for customers to move around, and instead of the traditional felt mats, we opted for plastic felt pads to improve sliding on the floor. The result was such a success that even the usually critical mother was pleased.
Later, we were also called in to upgrade a small room at the entrance, designed for winter afternoons and to welcome guests after days of skiing. We chose the same model of chairs and armchairs to ensure uniformity and flexibility. This time, we opted for a sage green eco-nubuck, relaxing and in harmony with the stove decoration. The new round HPL tables with dark walnut decor and black cast iron base completed the look.
We are looking forward to winter to see if customers will appreciate this new atmosphere. Personally, I think a change to the lamps, which are a bit dated, could make a difference, but everything in its own time. The charm of this job also lies in being able to strike the right balance between innovation and tradition, and the Snowflake brothers, with their mix of friendliness and candour, are a perfect example of this dynamic.
