When people speak of chalets, different types may come to mind. There are Swiss, ski and mountain chalets. There are even more types depending where you are around the globe. These distinctively built homes originally began being built in the mountains regions. They were built for a specific farming venture in mind.

These amazing homes first appeared at the Swiss Alps. The cattle farmers would take their herds up to the mountain for the summer months. They would live in the home during this time while taking care of their livestock. Right before the winter months came in, they would then take their cattle and head back down to the valley.

Now, these types of homes are widely used for vacation stays for people on ski trips in the winter, hiking trips in the summer or hunting retreats during the fall to name just a few. These homes are known as cottages, bungalows, cabins, lodges and camps. The way they are built, they offer a quiet place to relax and get away from the city life. In certain parts of the world, these homes can be found on beach fronts and other luxury type places, as well.

These homes are designed with breathtaking beauty, no matter what they are called or where they are located. With deep covered porches and roofs that slope gently, just a few of the simple styles that gives them their beauty. Most have large rustic wooden beams that are exposed on the inside of the home, as well as the outside.

An open floor plan and high vaulted ceilings make them seem even grander and more breathtaking. This also makes it easier for larger groups at once to be in the home at one time. Large storage closets are very common for ski clothing and other bulky winter attire. Large windows are a necessity, not only to enjoy the beauty outside, it lets the warm sun light in.

When these homes were first being built, they were topped with shingles that were cut in decorative designs. The eaves are built to be over sized, so they need to be supported by brackets or beams. In older days, these brackets had a softer, lacy appearance to them. Now, they are built on a grander scale, using larger pieces of wood for a more rustic look.

Chalets are two stories tall and sometimes a half story will be added for a loft. Since they are normally placed in the mountains, they offer large fireplaces with grand stone chimneys. No matter where they are built, they’re most likely to offer large windows featuring a picturesque scene from inside.

At the turn of the 20th century, these types of structures started to appear and instantly became popular. This style made its way over to America in 1885. These beautiful homes are being built all over the world today.

More information on chalets can be found by placing a simple search over the Internet. Details about the history, house plans, architectural style and beautiful pictures can be found on these outstanding homes. Information on classic designs to the new, modern, up-to-date designs can be found in abundance.

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