5 Unusual Interiors To See This Week

Each week our designers scour the web for stunning interiors to inspire their projects. From warm wooden alpine chalets to a converted church, here’s this week’s shot of interior design wanderlust.

Heinz Julen Penthouse - Zermatt, Switzerland

High up in the Mischabel mountains, where your head is literally in the clouds, lies an incredible masterpiece of Alpine beauty created by internationally acclaimed architect, Heinz Julen. This extraordinary 260sqm penthouse is set over 3 floors and features swathes of glass that create a light and airy feel. Julen's original hand-crafted furniture and chandeliers add a sophisticated touch to the cosy setting. Guests renting this self-catering gem can enjoy strolls through the picturesque village of Zermatt village which is easily accessed via private elevator.

Chingford Chapel Loft - London, UK

Pagans of the good times, sing Hallelujah to the travel gods and book thyself a flight direct to London for a stay in this former place of worship, built circa 1890. Brazilian interior designer Gianna Camilotti stuck faithfully by its original architectural features like rustic exposed timber, soaring ceilings and stained glass windows while adding a modern flair with bright white walls and minimalist decor. The loft opens onto a mezzanine level featuring a gorgeous entertainment area with a baby grand piano for those wine-drenched Friday night choral singalongs.

The Igloo Village - Kakslauttanen, Finland

Ever wanted to see the Northern Lights, but you're not keen on being bundled up like the abominable snowman in sub-zero temperatures? Now you can enjoy the view from your bed in the so-cool-it-hurts Igloo Village in Kakslauttanen, Finland. Regularly featured on the 'Most Romantic Hotels in the World' lists, the igloos are made from thermal glass so your view is never spoiled with frost. The idea was initially conceived by Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort owner, Jussi Eiramo, who built them in 1999 with local Finnish construction professionals.

The Muraka Villa - Maldives

Underwater restaurants have been a thing for a hot minute, but 2018 saw the arrival of the first entirely self-contained building to be submerged under the sea. Darling, it's better, down where it's wetter at the Muraka, part of The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. The above-water, two-storey villa has a master suite buried 16 feet deep in the ocean, allowing guests uninterrupted views of the surrounding marine life. The innovative design was created by local architect, Ahmed Saleem, in association with renowned New York firm, Yuji Yamazaki. They took inspiration from private jets and luxury Italian car interiors for the small, enclosed space and used mainly clear acrylic with glare-minimalizing technology in construction.

The Garden House - Cotia, Brazil

This modern remodelling of a 1980’s house is the brainchild of Brazilian architect, David Guerra. As the self-explanatory name suggests, one of the key design elements design was to make the garden an integral part of the house, both indoors and outdoors. The greatest challenge was also the greatest attraction: a centennial fig tree aka the Tree of Life engraved in the centre of the site, around which all construction had to take place. The inspiration for the project? None other than the Garden of Eden.

FCI Lifestyle

Love losing yourself in gorgeous interiors? So do we! Check out our designers' other dreamy picks of the week here and here.