Norwegian cabin architecture in the Rocky Mountains: a mountain chalet in Big Sky, Montana

A high-end property at the foot of Lone Mountain: LHM, a specialist in exclusive mountain homes, has built its first chalet on American soil in the upmarket ski resort of Big Sky. The simplicity of typical Norwegian mountain cabins has been luxuriously adapted to the rugged natural landscape of Montana. Dornbracht fittings and shower solutions also contribute to the cosiness and comfort of the property.

Traditional Norwegian log-building craftsmanship reinterpreted
The chalet’s design is inspired by traditional Norwegian log-building craftsmanship, offering a consistent reinterpretation of this style: instead of dark rooms dominated by massive round logs, the result is open, light-filled spaces that combine clean lines, fine materials, and a wealth of handcrafted details to form a harmonious whole. Working closely with the interior design studio 2AM Design, LHM has designed bespoke furniture and accessories for the project, including the kitchen, wardrobes, and integrated storage solutions. All the fitted elements are crafted from brushed oak veneer: With its light colour and distinctive wood grain, it creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.

A statement light sculpture
The centrepiece of the house is the holistic living space, which extends right up to the roof and is framed by a row of tall glass windows. From the luxurious sofa suite, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the wild, forested mountain scenery of the Rocky Mountains, whilst a fire crackles in the dark-panelled wood-burning stove. The bespoke, sculptural pendant light makes a real statement: as a playful arrangement of intertwined leather straps and artfully integrated light tubes, it draws everyone’s attention. The dark brown hue of the leather also complements the other natural materials – such as fur, wood, and brass – to perfection.

The iconic Tara Ultra tap in the kitchen
The kitchen continues the architectural clarity of the ambience. A colour scheme based on muted earth and grey tones allow it to blend seamlessly with the living and dining areas. Particularly striking is the three-metre-long cooking island with its striking natural stone worktop, manufactured in Lithuania. At the sink behind it, the iconic Dornbracht Tara Ultra tap blends subtly into the kitchen design. This is largely thanks to the Brushed Platinum finish, which blends seamlessly with the surrounding grey stone surfaces. The tap is complemented by a matching Hot & Cold Water Dispenser.

Comfortable lounge area
Right next to the kitchen, a staircase with solid oak steps, featuring indirect lighting, leads to the upper floor. In addition to the individual bedrooms, there is a spacious communal area: the lounge area, comprising of sofas, cushions, and a fluffy carpet, is designed for maximum comfort and social relaxation. Several alcoves provide additional sleeping space within the cosy, wood-panelled room.

Vaia completes the bathroom design
Natural stone, wood, and leather prove to be key visual features in the chalet’s bathrooms. The Dornbracht taps and shower solutions are seamlessly integrated into the overall design. Vaia, with lever handles in Brushed Platinum, features in several bathroom designs: Combined with washbasins made of grey natural stone, its understated look exudes cool elegance. The ensembles are each complemented by a variety of mirrors, some minimalist and round, others strikingly staged like paintings. In one of the bathrooms, a bath complete with a freestanding Vaia is staged in front of a room divider resembling a shrine. In another, a Dornbracht rain shower with Vaia controls provides moments of regeneration and well-being.