The chalet is located nearby the slopes of a well-known Swiss ski resort. The strict local planning regulations delineate the building’s volume, shape and materials. We worked within stringent constraints and found room for creativity by applying a “less is more” approach to the local vernacular tradition, working on minimalist and clean details. Among the client’s requests, one was to provide a generous space for the family’s large amount of books. The staircase is integrated with a wooden structural system which serves as a support and bookcase. We called it the “Stairway to wisdom”.