Chalet Fiocco di Neve

Strategic restyling in special slalom.

Working with Chalet Fiocco di Neve in Pinzolo is always a unique experience, not only for the welcoming atmosphere, but especially for the people who run it. The relationship with brothers Matteo and Marco has always been informal and pleasant. We've bumped into each other several times at trade shows, and finally, this year in Bolzano, Marco stopped by the stand to tell me they needed to renew some of the armchairs and chairs in the lounge.

So, one Sunday morning, I set out alone to meet them. Marco had warned me that I would also have to deal with his mother, a true perfectionist, known for never compromising on aesthetics or practicality. The challenge was daunting: the chairs had to be sturdy enough to withstand the uneven floor, almost like a wavy stone, which put a strain on the furniture legs.

I came prepared with an innovative solution: an X-shaped brace to reinforce the chair legs. This system would ensure greater strength, even with customers who liked to rock or push their chairs back. This approach proved successful. In the end, we opted for the Merano chair and armchair, with a larger, squarer seat, all in a walnut color that matched the existing tables and upholstered in red eco-nubuck, like the old chairs.

A completely new and welcoming atmosphere for incoming guests.

For the more confined areas, I suggested alternating chairs and armchairs to facilitate customer movement, and instead of traditional felt pads, we opted for plastic pads to improve sliding on the floor. The result was a success, so much so that even the usually critical mother was satisfied.

Later, we were also asked to renovate a small entrance hall, designed for winter afternoons and to welcome guests after a day's skiing. We chose the same chair and armchair model to ensure uniformity and flexibility. This time, we opted for a soothing sage green eco-nubuck, which complemented the stove's décor. New round HPL tables with dark walnut decor and black cast iron bases completed the look.

We're waiting for winter to see if customers will appreciate this new atmosphere. Personally, I think a change to the slightly dated lamps could make a difference, but all things come in their own time. The charm of this job also lies in finding the right balance between innovation and tradition, and the Fiocco di Neve brothers, with their mix of friendliness and frankness, are a perfect example of this dynamic.