Après ski is the time spent socializing and relaxing after a day on the slopes, in both refined and cozy settings. This interior decorating style creates sophisticated mountain-inspired spaces that encourage leisure. “It combines rustic lodge elements with a touch of luxury,” explains Heather Goerzen, Havenly’s design director. Picture soft wool throws, warm wood tones, a crackling fire, balanced with modern accents and a refined color scheme. The goal is to feel embraced by comfort, like a warm hug after a chilly day on the slopes, says designer Kathy Kuo, CEO of Kathy Kuo Home. To achieve a blend of comfort and elegance, embrace the après ski lifestyle in your decor, creating a space that invites gathering and relaxation.
Expert designers Heather Goerzen and Kathy Kuo offer these 7 Easy Ways to Achieve an Après Ski Look at Home:
1. Mix Natural Materials, Cozy Textures, and Patterns
Incorporate a variety of textures and materials like wood, stone, leather, faux fur, and wool to create a cozy ambiance. Layer different textures and patterns to enhance the immersive feel of the space.
2. Add Pops of Color to a Polished Palette
Use earthy hues like blues, greens, burgundies, and golds to convey elegance and relaxation. Add unexpected pops of color such as red, sky blue, and forest green for a vintage ski resort vibe.
3. Give It a Modern Edge
Balance the rustic elements with modern touches like art pieces, brass or gold accents, and clean-lined furniture to maintain a sophisticated look.
4. Incorporate a Little Winter Kitsch (and Ritzy Details)
Embrace winter motifs with elements like antique skis, snowglobes, or faux snowflakes to celebrate ski culture and the beauty of the mountains.
By following these expert tips, you can bring the cozy yet chic après ski atmosphere into your own home.
Framed vintage lift tickets are just the thing to capture the style. Kuo also recommends balancing winter elements with upscale details like family crests for old-world luxury. “Personal touches are always the most effective way to make a space feel truly warm, inviting, and unique,” says Kuo.
Make It a Gathering Place Socializing is an inherent part of après-ski, and your space should be arranged and outfitted with that in mind. “I like the idea of an après-ski-inspired space as being very conducive to gathering and sharing snacks, drinks, and stories,” says Kuo. “Consider an oversized coffee table that could work for games or for a big charcuterie board,” suggests Kuo. A bar cart is quintessentially après-ski, signifying a communal cocktail hour or simply providing an at-hand spot for grabbing a drink while unwinding.
Choose Comfortable Seating “A key element of après-ski style is creating an environment where you can really relax,” says Goerzen. She recommends a mix of oversized, comfy furniture that encourages lounging: plush armchairs, generous sofas, and oversized ottomans. “Make sure there’s a good flow for entertaining and conversation, but also quiet nooks where you can curl up and escape,” says Goerzen.
Add Warmth (Literally) Warming up after a day outside is part of the après-ski lifestyle, and there are multiple ways to approach it at home. “A statement fireplace (wood or gas) is a must for setting the mood,” says Goerzen, noting that it can also be used to anchor the space while adding that “rugged, mountain lodge energy.” Also, make sure there are plenty of lounge-worthy comforts. “It’s a nice touch to have baskets of extra blankets and floor pillows so that your ski buddies can all cozy up with ease and style!” says Kuo.
