Luxury rediscovered through Verbier's circular design

In the heart of Verbier, Val de Bagnes, Switzerland, a former hotel has been transformed into a private residence for a family based in London. Interior designer Marianne Tiegen has reimagined the 1,000-square-meter property as a year-round retreat, guided by a circular design approach that emphasizes reclaimed materials and bespoke craftsmanship.

Exterior view of Chalet 1936 in Verbier, Switzerland.
Photo credit: J. Wilson

The design process began with a clear intention to reuse existing resources wherever possible. Tiegen sourced furniture and architectural components from antique markets, salvage yards, and deconstruction sites. These elements were adapted by local artisans to meet the specific needs of the home.

Living room with bespoke Belgian linen sofas, reclaimed wood coffee table, and antique fireplace.
Photo credit: J. Wilson

Entryway at Chalet 1936 with natural stone walls, wood detailing, and a mix of antique and contemporary furnishings.
Photo credit: J. Wilson

Photo credit: J. Wilson

Photo credit: J. Wilson

In the main living spaces, custom Belgian linen sofas are paired with coffee tables made from reclaimed wood. Antique fireplaces from past centuries were restored and reinstalled. A zinc gutter, originally from an agricultural structure, has been suspended above a 15-foot-long oak dining table and reimagined as a pendant light.

Photo credit: J. Wilson

Stone-clad fireplace with antique finish, surrounded by natural textures and soft neutrals.
Photo credit: J. Wilson

Kitchen at Chalet 1936 with reclaimed oak cabinetry, concrete countertops, and vintage accents
Photo credit: J. Wilson

Dining area with a bespoke oak table and reupholstered 18th-century Os de Mouton chairs. The pendant light was designed by Marianne Tiegen using a reclaimed Parisian zinc gutter.
Photo credit:
J. Wilson

Materials were chosen to age gracefully over time. Walls are finished with mineral-based limestone paint and cladded with weathered boards from dismantled alpine barns. The color palette features earthy browns and soft creams, evoking a calm and natural atmosphere.

Photo credit: J. Wilson

Home office with vintage Florence Knoll desk and mercury mirror collage.
Photo credit: J. Wilson

Cinema lounge with reclaimed wood coffee table and vintage floor lamp made from Dutch barge parts.
Photo credit: J. Wilson

In the bedrooms, reclaimed beams and antique textiles shape the interior mood. Bathrooms include restored wash basins, vintage mirrors, and stone surfaces. The consistent use of natural finishes and muted colors reinforces a cohesive design philosophy throughout the residence.

Photo credit: J. Wilson

Copper bathtub and arched vintage mirror next to an antique linen sofa.
Photo credit: J. Wilson

Photo credit: J. Wilson

The project, titled “1936” after the year the original hotel was constructed, was developed over several seasons. It reflects Tiegen’s ongoing commitment to circular design, with a focus on comfort, durability, and regional connection through local material reuse.

Photo credit: J. Wilson

Bedroom with organic cashmere bedding and antique Louis XIII armchair.
Photo credit: J. Wilson

Photo credit: J. Wilson

Photo credit: J. Wilson

Mass production and standardization were intentionally avoided. Instead, the home features a curated blend of 18th–19th century French antiques, mid-century American and European design, and vernacular alpine objects. Each item retains its original identity, even when adapted for a new function. This renovation joins a growing body of work by Tiegen across Europe and North America, where she applies similar principles. The designer frequently collaborates with craftspeople to extend the lifecycle of furnishings and textiles, using natural dyes, reclaimed objects, and construction salvage.

Photo credit: J. Wilson

Photo credit: J. Wilson

Photo credit: J. Wilson

Photo credit: J. Wilson

The Verbier residence is part of the broader portfolio of Marianne Tiegen Interiors, which includes residential and hospitality projects across Switzerland, France, and the United States. The studio handles both renovations and new constructions, always emphasizing material integrity, environmental awareness, and long-term usability.

Photo credit: J. Wilson

Photo credit: J. Wilson

About Marianne Tiegen Interiors

Marianne Tiegen Interiors is a design studio with offices in Switzerland, France, and California. Founded by Marianne Tiegen, the firm specializes in residential and hospitality projects that highlight material authenticity, historical continuity, and personal storytelling. Emphasizing reclaimed elements, craftsmanship, and sustainability, the studio collaborates with artisans to create interiors rooted in place, memory, and purpose.