Courchevel Chalet Renovation & Reconfiguration

Project details:

A ski-in, ski-out Courchevel chalet renovation of some 400m2, built circa 2001.  The chalet had been designed, as many of that time, with a focus on the maximum number of bedrooms.  The walls were finished in light pine wooden cladding, again a theme running through the 1980’s through to the late 1990’s.  The client wanted the renovation to achieve a chalet with less bedrooms but all with generous en-suite bathrooms.  The finish was to be brought up to date with a combination of traditional building materials eg. old wood cladding to the walls and modern bathroom suites.    This type of Courchevel chalet renovation with a focus on traditional building materials is growing in popularity.

This Courchevel chalet renovation included the complete demolition of the existing internal structure. Using the experience of Simon Jones and trustworthy local trades we were able to avoid the removal of the screed flooring and avoid the costly replacement of underfloor heating and the requirement to pour new concrete floors.  A considerable financial saving for the client.

Simon Jones undertakes construction, building, renovation and refurbishment projects in Meribel, Courchevel, St Martin de Belleville, Annecy, Megeve, and Ste Foy Tarentaise.  Our portfolio ranges from simple renovations to full scale rebuilds and new build chalets.

Project Brief:

Reconfiguration of 8 bedroom chalet

Creation of larger bedrooms with en-suites

Complete rip out of internal structure

Partial removal of existing screeds

New walls and flooring throughout

Complete fit out and 5 new en-suite bathrooms

Categories:

Demolition

Construction

Roofing

Steel work

Fireplace specialist

Carpentry

Electrician

Plumber

Tiling

Plastering

Painting & decorating

Architect: Yes

Structural Engineer: Yes

Chalet Courchevel, during renovation

Chalet Courchevel, during renovation

Chalet Courchevel, pre-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, post-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, pre-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, post-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, pre-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, post-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, pre-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, post-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, pre-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, post-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, pre-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, post-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, pre-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, post-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, pre-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, post-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, during renovation

Chalet Courchevel, during renovation

Chalet Courchevel, during renovation

Chalet Courchevel, during renovation

Chalet Courchevel, during renovation

Chalet Courchevel, during renovation

Chalet Courchevel, during renovation

Chalet Courchevel, post-renovation

Chalet Courchevel, post-renovation

Chalet Construction in Courchevel, Meribel, St Martin de Belleville, Ste Foy, Val d’Isere & Lake Annecy

Simon Jones undertakes chalet construction projects across the Savoie region in the Alps and in Lake Annecy in the haute Savoie.   Individual projects can be viewed in our portfolio, whilst this page highlights chalet construction in general.

Simon Jones undertakes build & construction projects of varying complexity and size.  Our construction projects are normally architect-driven and nearly always require the involvement of a structural engineer.

We are experienced in chalet construction from the earthworks and foundations stage through to final delivery.  We are instructed directly by private clients and investors looking for high end results. We only work with qualified, experienced, local tradesmen and contractors who offer the highest level of workmanship, attention to detail and reliability.

Undertaking a building project in France can be a daunting prospect – even for those that live in France year-round.  In France most tradesmen are specialists in one area and there is a real absence of what the British would consider ‘general contractors’ except for large commercial developments. Even with large commercial developments there will be numerous subcontractors involved and you can see them listed on the large planning boards outside large building sites.  For more information on ‘general contractors’ see here.

In the absence of ‘general contractors’ there will always be the need for someone to manage, oversee and coordinate works to ensure that the contractors not only dovetail with one another but also do the chalet construction works according to the local planning and building regulations.  This is no easy task & not for the faint hearted.  Trying to manage a build project in France from the UK is beyond even the most experienced developer and can prove to be an expensive mistake.  Trying to manage a chalet construction whilst resident in France but without prior experience of building in France can also be eye-wateringly expensive. It is a highly sophisticated role that requires both experience & building knowledge to be done effectively & efficiently.

A good project manager (Maitre d’oeuvre) adds value to a project and will more than pay for his own fees by the savings that he makes for a client through running a project effectively & avoiding expensive mistakes.  The use of a good project manager also allows a client to focus on the exciting aspects of a build project and the final finishes rather than on the daily grind of dealing with issues such as drainage and continued compliance with building regulations.

Simon Jones undertakes chalet construction, building, chalet renovation and refurbishment projects in Meribel, Courchevel, St Martin de Belleville, Lake Annecy, Ste Foy Tarentaise, Val d’Isere and Tignes.  Our portfolio ranges from simple renovations to full scale rebuilds and new build chalets.

Chalet Renovation Meribel New Kitchen

Project details:

To oversee the partial renovation of a ski in, ski out apartment on the Route des Chalets, Meribel.  The rip out of an old, dark and dingy kitchen and to create a light and modern feel with this Chalet Renovation Meribel.

We are normally involved in large scale building and construction projects in Meribel but were able to fit this small renovation into our schedule.  As our work across Meribel, Courchevel, Val d’Isere and Ste Foy Tarentaise involves large scale renovation works we are able to oversee small renovations and works with ease.  Where our schedule allows we are able to take on other small building works such as roof and roofing works including the renewal of roofing materials including stone, slate, lauzes, tin and wooden shingles.

Simon Jones undertakes construction, building, renovation and refurbishment projects in Meribel, Courchevel, St Martin de Belleville, Lake Annecy, Ste Foy Tarentaise, Val d’Isere and Tignes.  Our portfolio ranges from simple renovations to full scale chalet rebuild projects and the construction of new build chalets.

Project Brief:

The Chalet Renovation Meribel New Kitchen brief was:

Kitchen renovation

Rip out of existing kitchen

Supply of a new kitchen

Replacement plumbing

New electrical board and electrical wiring

New tiled flooring

Plastering, painting & decorating

Categories:

The following categories were invloved in the Chalet Renovation Meribel New Kitchen:

Demolition

Plumbing

Electrical

Carpentry

Tiling

Plastering

Painting & decorating

Architect: No

Structural Engineer: No

Original building

Post-Renovation

Original building

Post-Renovation

Original building

Post-Renovation

Val dd’Isere & Courchevel Chalet Roof Replacement

Chalet roofs in the Alps, in particular at the resort heights of Courchevel, Meribel, Ste Foy and Val d’Isere, should have a lifespan of 20 years or so.  Depending on the materials used a Courchevel chalet roof replacement need not be extortionate in itself.  However, if the the roof covering has been allowed to deteriorate over the years this can lead to damage to the waterproofing layer below and to the wooden covering – the lambris.  In severe cases the actual structure of the roof may need attention. Whilst copper guttering has a longer lifespan than tin it will invariably not last as long as the roof covering. Wooden snow stops (arret des neiges) can also fail & may need replacing.

Courchevel chalet roof replacement – replacement of a roof covering will still be of interest to the local Mairie even though it is not a matter that requires planning permission.  A declaration of works should, therefore, always be submitted prior to work commencing.  When replacing a roof covering it can often pay dividends to take the opportunity to increase roof insulation at the same time.  This will require planning permission as the roof height will be increased by 30cm or so.

Whilst the roofs in Ste Foy Tarentaise are all stone / slate / lauzes, there are more options available in the resorts of Val d’Isere, Meribel, Tignes, St Martin de Belleville and Courchevel chalet roof replacement.  The main roof coverings used are tin, wooden shingles or stone / slate.  A change in roof covering material will also be of interest to the planners and an application should be made in this case.  Different chalet roof coverings have different weights – a stone roof will be far heavier than one made of tin.  Before opting to replace a tin roof with a stone one it is essential that a structural engineer has carried out the calculations to ensure that the purlins are able to support the additional loading.

Simon Jones in experienced in all areas of roofing from repairs and replacement of roof coverings to new roofs and the whole replacement of roof structures.

Simon Jones undertakes construction, building, renovation and refurbishment projects in Meribel, Courchevel, St Martin de Belleville, Annecy, Megeve, Ste Foy Tarentaise, Val d’Isere and Tignes.  Our portfolio ranges from simple renovations to full scale rebuilds and new build chalets.

A traditional stone / slate (lauzes) roof covering with wooden snow stops

A Chalet Extension Courchevel 1650 / Courchevel Moriond

Project Description:

Construction & building of a small chalet extension Courchevel to an existing chalet to provide a dedicated ski and boot room with terrace above.  Simon Jones has been responsible for this project from inception to completion.  The client has trusted Simon Jones to deliver a building project in Courchevel that meets their expectations in terms of quality of build, timescale and budget.  Simon has been involved from the earliest stages and has represented the clients best interests at all times.  This has led to a stress free chalet construction for the client.

Simon Jones undertakes construction, building, renovation and refurbishment projects in Meribel, Courchevel, St Martin de Belleville, Annecy, Megeve, Ste Foy Tarentaise, Val d’Isere and Tignes.  Our portfolio ranges from simple renovations to full scale rebuilds and new build chalets.

Project Details:

Groundworks and Foundations.  Demolition, site clearance, excavation of land.  Footings, construction of concrete slab ground floor with internal and external openings.

Exterior structure.  Stonework, timber frame, balcony, terrace.

Interior fitting out. Electrical, plumbing, internal walls, screeds, entire internal fit out.  Further exterior works, paving and stonework.

Simon Jones undertakes construction, building, renovation and refurbishment projects in Meribel, Courchevel, St Martin de Belleville, Annecy, Megeve, and Ste Foy Tarentaise.  Our portfolio ranges from simple renovations to full scale rebuilds and new build chalets.

Project Brief:

The Chalet extension Courchevel required:

Construction of chalet extension

Building of of terrace

Creation of an exterior stairwell

Internal carpentry & internal finish

Categories:

The following categories were all applicable in the chalet extension Courchevel project:

Demolition

Construction

Foundations

Building

Masonry

Steel work

Carpentry

Electrician

Tiling

Painting & decorating

Architect? Yes

Structural Engineer: No

Contractors to co-ordinate:

The chalet extension Courchevel involved all of the following contractors: Earthworks, foundations, masons, engineer, plumber, electrician, fireplace specialist, carpenters & joiners, roofing, windows & doors.

Courchevel Demolition,, Excavation, Foundations

Courchevel chalet, Extension structure

Courchevel chalet, Stairwell excavation, foundations

Courchevel chalet, Stairwell retaining walls

Courchevel chalet, Stairwell masonry, stonework

Courchevel chalet, Stairwell masonry, stonework

Courchevel chalet, Stairwell carpentry & bespoke metal foot treads

Courchevel Chalet extension

Courchevel chalet, terrace carpentry

Courchevel chalet new terrace & balustrade

Courchevel chalet extension & new stairwell

Courchevel chalet extension

Courchevel chalet extension

Courchevel chalet extension

Courchevel Chalet extension

Courchevel Chalet extension & creation of stairwell

Chalet Renovation Courchevel

A simple chalet renovation Courchevel including structural alterations to allow the removal and relocation of a fireplace & wood burning stove.  This would allow the chalet to have a more natural flow and a more inviting layout.  As the works involved the demolition of an external chimney (& the creation of a new one) planning permission was required as the external appearance of the chalet would be affected.

The demolition of the existing internal stone chimney breast had knock on effects & the opportunity was taken to move some internal walls, removal of a WC, new plasterboard walls, new flooring, painting and decorating.  The new chimney flue outlet involved roofing and stone masons.  The further renovation works required more trades both electrical and plumbing contractors.

Simon Jones was instructed to manage the Chalet Renovation Courchevel at Chalet Sophie from the architectural and planning stage through to final delivery.

Simon Jones undertakes construction, building, renovation and refurbishment projects in Meribel, Courchevel, St Martin de Belleville, Annecy, Megeve, Ste Foy Tarentaise, Val d’Isere and Tignes.  Our portfolio ranges from simple renovations like this one at Chalet Sophie, Courchevel to full scale rebuilds and new build chalets.

Project Brief:

This Chalet Renovation Courchevel project brief:

Chalet Reconfiguration

Removal of existing fireplace & chimney stack

Creation of new chimney stack

Installation of wood burner

Tiled flooring replaced with carpet

Removal of WC

Painting and decorating throughout

Categories:

The Chalet Renovation Courchevel project involved:

Demolition

Building

Structural

Roofing

Electrician

Plumber

Plastering

Carpentry

Tiler

Carpet fitter

Painting & decorating

Architect: Yes

Planning Permission: Yes

Structural Engineer: Not required

Thermal study: Not required

Ground survey: Not required

RT2012: Exempt

Contractors to co-ordinate:

All of the following trades and professional contractors were involved in the Chalet Renovation Courchevel at Chalet Sophie: Architect, demolition, construction, fireplace specialist, roofing, masons, carpenter, plumber, electrican, chimney specialist, flue specialist, plastering, tiler, carpet fitter, painters and decorators.

Courchevel fireplace & chimney stack removal & reconfiguration

Courchevel fireplace & chimney stack removal & reconfiguration

Courchevel fireplace & chimney stack removal & reconfiguration

Courchevel fireplace & chimney stack removal & reconfiguration

Courchevel fireplace & chimney stack removal & reconfiguration

Courchevel fireplace & chimney stack removal & reconfiguration

Courchevel fireplace & chimney stack removal & reconfiguration

Courchevel fireplace & chimney stack removal & reconfiguration

Renovation Courchevel – External chalet renovation

A simple external renovation Courchevel of a private chalet where the external woodwork (bardage) of the chalet was looking tired and the tarmac driveway had seen better days.  Including some small landscaping works done to improve the external appearance of the chalet.

Woodwork that covers the external face of chalets (bardage) battles the elements and UV throughout the year.  Bardage will become discoloured over time (different shades depending on direction exposure) and if close to standing water will soak up water which results in water marks.

Even in the most exclusive areas of Courchevel 1850, Meribel and Val d’Isere chalets were generally built using cheap pine for the bardage.  If a chalet is undergoing extensive renovation it may be a good idea to consider replacing the pine bardage with a harder wearing wood such as meleze (larch).  Meleze will age naturally and looks better over time.  It requires no on-going maintenance.  Whilst a more expensive initial investment meleze will cost less over the long term and gives a natural external appearance to a chalet.

Woodwork on terraces, handrails and balustrades works even harder throughout the year than bardage.  To extend the life of wood on terraces annual maintenance is essential.

Bardage traditionally covers the upper storeys of a chalet (with a stone or crepie finish on the ground floor).  Sandblasting is heavy work and ladders are not sufficient so there will normally be a requirement for scaffold to safely work on the bardage.

It was fairly commonplace for bardage to be treated with varnish and this is still the case for terrace handrails.  Varnish, however, will have a blocking effect on the wood and will peel within a fairly short period of time.  It is now more usual for bardage to be treated with a stain or a ‘lasure’.  The lasure soaks into the wood and hence should not peel.  It is claimed that it will not discolour at all over time (it contains significant UV reflective properties) though this seems unlikely and no actual time frame is given.  Given it’s longer lifespan, extensive range of colours and comparable cost, a lasure finish is certainly preferable to varnish.

Colour finish.  Different communes will have their own planning regulations on colour and a significant change to a chalet will be of interest to the planning department.  Advice and permission should always be sought in these circumstances.  The range of possible colours for a lasure are endless and bespoke colours can be mixed.  The final lasure finish will always differ somewhat depending on the type and age of the wood that it is applied to.  There are also different methods of application to give either a block colour finish or a brushed finish.

Simon Jones undertakes construction, building & renovation projects in Meribel, Courchevel, St Martin de Belleville, Lake Annecy, Ste Foy Tarentaise, Val d’Isere and Tignes.  Our portfolio ranges from simple renovations to new build chalets.

Project Brief:

The renovation Courchevel project brief:

Sandblast exterior of chalet

Application of lasure stain

New tarmac driveway

Landscaping

Categories:

The renovation Courchevel project involved:

Scaffolders

Sandblasting

Tarmac removal and reapplication

Landscaping

Architect: No

Planning Permission: No

Structural Engineer: Not required

Thermal study: Not required

Ground survey: Not required

RT2012: Exempt

Contractors to co-ordinate:

All of the following trades and professional contractors were involved in the renovation Courchevel project: scaffolders, sandblasting team, landscapers, groundworks (tarmac).

Sand blasting & lasure Courchevel chalet

Building in Courchevel

We were asked to advise a client on the provision of a new roof to a chalet in Courchevel.  On inspection it became clear that the old chalet roof had failed in several places and that it was beyond economic repair.  The old roof had been finished in a bitumen roof tile.  These tiles had come away from the wooden roof allowing the wood below to become exposed to the elements and to rot.  A new roof was required.  With many years of experience of building in Courchevel, we are familiar with all roof types and roof construction.

For this chalet building in Courchevel the old bitumen roof tiles were scraped off, the wooden boards removed and old batons replaced.  A new waterproofing layer followed with wooden batons and was finished with a new tin roof.  Close management of the project meant that no unnecessary works were undertaken and that the main roof structure remained intact.

Simon Jones is experienced in both roof repair and new roofs in Courchevel, Meribel and the surrounding areas including Bozel, Val d’Isere, Tignes, St Martin de Belleville and Ste Foy Tarentaise.  Subject to planning regulations your new roof in Courchevel can be finished in tin, stone, slate or wooden shingle.  Simon Jones is experienced in the application of all of these materials.

For the different types of chalet roof finish see here.

For one of our recent projects including a new slate roof for a chalet in Ste Foy Tarentaise click here.

For one of our recent projects including a new tin roof for a chalet in Meribel click here.

For one of our recent projects including repairs to a wooden shingle roof of a chalet in Courchevel click here.

Project Brief:

Courchevel roof removal and replacement with a new tin roof

Categories:

Building Courchevel

Roofing in Courchevel

Roof snow stops

Guttering & downpipes

Carpentry

Waterproofing

Tin roof covering

Replacement roof Courchevel

Replacement Roof Courchevel

Chalet Extension Meribel

Project details:

A traditional chalet in Meribel to be extended to provide an additional 2 bedrooms and increased living accommodation.   Minor internal renovations as part of the works and creation of a large, raised wooden terrace with hot tub.  Excavation of ground, new slab, new structural walls, new roof structure.

Simon Jones was instructed to manage the chalet extension Meribel project from the architectural and planning stage in the autumn 2008 through to final delivery in December 2009.

Simon Jones undertakes construction, building and renovation projects in Courchevel, Meribel, Ste Foy Tarentaise, St Martin de Belleville, Val d’Isere, Tignes and Lake Annnecy.  Our portfolio ranges from small building & renovation projects such as this chalet extension Meribel through to major construction projects & new build chalets.

Project Brief:

This chalet extension Meribel project brief was:

Excavation to create chalet extension

Creation of structural openings

New roof structure for half of the chalet

New roof insulation & covering

New internal floors & walls

New windows and window openings

New bathroom

New flooring throughout

Painting and decorating

Categories:

This building project involved all of the following contractors:

Groundworks

Excavation

Foundations

Building

Steel work

Carpentry

Electrician

Plumbing

New windows

Meribel extension completed