# Modern Alpine Abodes This Contemporary Alpine House Features a Peaceful Design Plan By Vasiliki Marapas | Published 2014-11-18 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/contemporary-alpine-house References: [design-milk](http://design-milk.com/contemporary-alpine-house-ralph-germann-architectes/) & [ralphgermann.ch](http://www.ralphgermann.ch/) Ralph Germann Architects designed the '[Contemporary Alpine House](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cypress-retreat)' for a couple in Fribourg, Swiss Pre-Alps. The couple's main requirement was a harmonious environment. To establish such an environment, the architects decided to update the [simple form of the local farmhouses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mountainous-home). Using larch for the facades, furniture and fixtures, and concrete and lime for the interior walls, the architects created a balanced space that was reflective of the surrounding architectures, but more modern. Inside the home, the architects installed a custom-made fireplace, made of laminated steel, along with a wooden pellet stove that heats the interior in a sustainable manner. The second floor features a lengthy library space, which was specially built to allow the residents to enjoy the [natural light and views](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/omarama-attic). ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.6/10 - Popularity: 70% | Activity: 30% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen X - Top markets: Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/architecture) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Sustainable Architecture:** Exploring innovative ways to incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems in building design. - **Harmonious Environments:** Creating spaces that promote tranquility and well-being through thoughtful design and use of natural materials. - **Modernized Traditional Design:** Updating traditional architectural styles with contemporary elements for a fresh and sophisticated aesthetic. ### Where This Applies - **Architecture and Design:** Opportunities for architects and designers to incorporate sustainable practices and create harmonious living spaces. - **Home Furnishing:** Manufacturing and retail industries can offer eco-friendly furniture and fixtures that align with the principles of harmonious design. - **Renewable Energy:** Developing and promoting energy-efficient heating systems, like wooden pellet stoves, for sustainable and eco-friendly homes. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Contemporary Ski Home Projects](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/traditional-ski-chalet.md) - [Residential Mountain Retreats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/avber-house.md) - [Natural Comfort Chalets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chalet-cocagne.md) - [Nature-Rooted Family Retreats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/haus-am-lagnesberg.md) - [Holiday Mountain Village Chalets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/perfect-day-house.md) - [Chalet-Inspired Showrooms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gstaad-house.md) - [Mountainside Cedar Alpine Houses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/elizabeth-roberts-architects.md) - [Mountain Courtyard Residences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ski-house.md) - [Modern Mountainous Luxury Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/robert-chisholm-architects.md)