The notion of a ski chalet can be kind of silly for those of us who live in hill-challenged places, let alone anywhere remotely mountainous.

But still, we try. Some of us are actually people who love the winter, who physically engage in winter, and who enjoy the look of snow and ice sparkling in the trees on a frigid, sunny day.

But you do need a warm place from which to enjoy the view, a place to warm up after skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing. And where better to do this than a chalet?

I know some of you are thinking you’d rather be on a beach. Not a bad idea either, but still, I’ve always had a soft spot for the idea of a chalet — a cosy place for drinks with friends, firelight and stomach-warming cheese fondues, après ski.

The idea of a rustic chalet may seem cheesy, and I can concur that I’ve seen some pretty dated, kitschy-looking chalets. But it doesn’t have to be tacky. It can, in fact, be spectacular.

If you’re a winter-lover and you do end up with a chalet (you never know) — do one thing for me: Don’t attempt the faux Swiss look. The thing about a chalet is that it should launch you into the great wintery outdoors in your own locality, and guess what? You don’t live in Switzerland.

Instead, use local materials to make the connection to the environment just outside your window, such as stone for the fireplace, and local wood for panelling. That way, it looks as if it belongs.

Keep the look light and airy, and avoid fussy or formal finishes. Use muted tones or white on the wall. Avoid too much dark or vibrant colour, or bright, shiny finishes. Remember a chalet should be simple and casual, a place to focus on relaxation and the great outdoors.

Avoid “art” or too many decorations — informal, locally-themed items, such as framed local ski trail maps or antique ski posters or photos are best.

Rustic wood (usually cedar or pine) on the walls has traditionally been used to give a “chalet feel.” To avoid a dated look, try using it horizontally as wainscoting, or panel the ceiling. Exposed wooden ceiling or support beams in natural wood continue to look great.

Casual wooden furniture and cabinets in natural, lightly stained or whitewashed wood is a good choice. Weathered barnboard can look sharp when combined with other natural finishes such as non-polished limestone, slate or soapstone.

Upholstery and other fabrics (drapes, rugs) add warmth, especially if warm, rich colours are used. Checks and stripes or subtle plaids work, as do muted solids. Use plenty of throws and cushions on sofas and armchairs.

Hard-wearing stone or porcelain in natural textures and colours works well in the entrance area. Rustic wood flooring with plenty of rugs in simple patterns work everywhere else.

If you are involved in designing a chalet — lucky you, here are some ideas:

• Chalets were originally built with steep-sided roofs so snow would slide off. The delightful result is a central space with a high ceiling and a spacious open feel.

• Big picture windows (facing south, preferably) allow you to appreciate the winter wonderland.