In the heart of the Valais Alps, in a small village above the town of Sion, a contemporary log house project has come to life, the result of a shared vision between two architecture enthusiasts with contrasting tastes. Situated at an altitude of around 900 meters, this log 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 is deeply attached to natural materials, the charm and warmth of Scandinavian wood, its authenticity and close connection to nature. She, originally from Brazil, loves clean lines, open spaces, and minimalist volumes: a true admirer of modern design and contemporary architecture. 

Instead of choosing between two styles, the couple envisioned a project that would merge their two worlds. With the help of Kontio, a global specialist in log house construction, they were able to bring their ambitious idea to life. Kontio’s innovative technologies allow for the creation of modern log homes with sleek designs, while preserving the thermal, aesthetic, and ecological benefits of wood. 

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

To bring their dream to life, they enlisted Jean-Michel Martignoni, a renowned architect with whom they had previously collaborated. He proposed the concept of the “box within the box,” also nicknamed “the aquarium in the box.”  

From the outside, the house appears as 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 lets in natural light and opens the living spaces to the majestic mountain landscape. The solid wood provides protection and privacy, while the glass offers modernity, transparency, and lightness.  

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

A collaborative project inspired by multiple cultures 

The project gained even more 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, gave rise to a unique atmosphere that blends Latin architecture, European design, and Nordic 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 are found in every room. The result: a warm, refined, and deeply personal modern wooden home. 

An eco-friendly and sustainable home in the Alps 

Building at 900 meters above sea level comes with challenges: climate, logistics, terrain adaptation. But these constraints were turned into strengths. Thanks to Kontio’s expertise, this eco-friendly wooden house is perfectly adapted to its environment. It is designed to reduce its carbon footprint, maximize solar gain, and provide excellent natural thermal insulation.

The materials used are sustainable, renewable, and environmentally friendly. Kontio’s laminated log (CLT Smart Log™) is treated without toxic substances and contributes to a 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” log house is much more than just a place to live: It is a reflection of their story, their connection, and their love for beautiful things. It embodies a vision of architecture where contrasts become complements, and where each space evokes emotion. 

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