What Goes into Designing a Luxury Penthouse?
Credit: Onni Group
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When it comes to luxury living, few spaces embody prestige and exclusivity quite like a penthouse. Positioned at the pinnacle of high-rise buildings, these residences offer panoramic views, expansive layouts, and premium finishes that define modern luxury. But what truly sets a luxury penthouse apart from other high-end residences?
Designing a penthouse requires a deep understanding of spatial planning, materials, and lifestyle needs. From maximizing natural light to customizing every detail to meet the owner's specifications, a penthouse is a seamless blend of architecture, interior design, and functionality.
This guide explores the essential elements that go into designing a luxury penthouse, drawing from my experience working on high-end projects with Onni Group, including Cambie Gardens, Level LA, Centerview Penthouses and other multifamily and luxury developments.
1. Maximizing the Location: Views, Orientation & Light
A penthouse’s defining feature is its vantage point. Whether overlooking a glittering city skyline, mountain range, or waterfront, a penthouse’s design must enhance its surroundings.
Key Considerations:
Floor-to-Ceiling Windows: Expansive glazing allows natural light to flood the space while framing breathtaking views.
Terrace & Outdoor Living: Many luxury penthouses feature wraparound balconies, rooftop terraces, or private garden spaces to extend the living area outdoors.
Privacy & Orientation: While expansive windows are essential, privacy remains crucial. Smart design integrates tinted glass, motorized shades, and strategic layout planning.
Example: At The Charleson, the penthouses were designed with oversized terraces and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions, fully immersing homeowners in Vancouver’s skyline.
2. Bespoke Interior Layouts & Customization
Unlike standard apartments, penthouses allow for full customization. Homeowners expect layouts tailored to their lifestyles, whether they prioritize entertaining, work-from-home spaces, or spa-like retreats.
Customization Options:
Flexible Floor Plans: Open-concept designs allow fluid movement between kitchen, dining, and living areas while maintaining intimacy.
Private Entrances & Elevators: Many penthouses feature direct elevator access for added exclusivity.
Multiple Suites: A well-designed penthouse often includes a master suite, guest suites, a secondary prep kitchen, and staff quarters.
Luxury penthouse owners want their homes to feel unique, so every detail - from room proportions to hidden storage solutions - should reflect their lifestyle.
3. Bonus Spaces that Elevate Daily Living
In high-end penthouse design, owners expect purposeful, exclusive spaces that elevate daily living. These bonus spaces aren’t just perks; they’re increasingly expected by discerning homeowners who prioritize privacy, lifestyle, and personalization. Whether built into the unit or offered as part of the building’s amenities, these tailored additions enhance the feeling of luxury and convenience:
Private parking garages with direct elevator access
Climate-controlled wine rooms or wine storage walls
Dedicated private libraries
Well-appointed fitness studios or yoga rooms
Spa-style bathrooms with steam showers or infrared saunas
Private screening rooms or media lounges
Butler’s pantries or secondary prep kitchens
Walk-in safes or secure storage rooms
Custom dressing rooms with boutique-style displays
Soundproof music or art studios
These features signal a home that’s been designed not just for living, but for living exceptionally well - meeting the demands of a refined and elevated lifestyle.
4. Material Selection & High-End Finishes
In a luxury penthouse, finishes define the experience of the space. Every surface, texture, and fixture should exude refinement and sophistication.
Top-Tier Material Choices:
Stone & Marble: Natural materials such as Calacatta marble, travertine, and quartzite create statement pieces in kitchens, bathrooms, and feature walls.
Exotic Wood: High-end millwork crafted from walnut, oak, or custom-stained finishes enhances warmth and depth.
Metals & Glass: Brushed brass, polished nickel, and custom glass installations elevate the sophistication of the space.
Example: In Cambie Gardens, we curated materials that blended organic textures with contemporary luxury, ensuring both timeless elegance and durability.
5. Smart Home Technology & Automation
Luxury penthouses integrate the latest smart home technology, allowing residents to seamlessly control their environment.
Must-Have Smart Features:
Lighting & Climate Control: Automated lighting systems that adjust based on time of day and occupancy.
Motorized Window Treatments: Control privacy and ambiance with smart drapery and blinds.
Integrated Audio-Visual Systems: Whole-home sound systems, hidden TVs, and in-wall speakers for an immersive experience.
Security & Access Control: Biometric locks, facial recognition entry, and discreet security systems for ultimate privacy.
Example: At Level LA, we incorporated state-of-the-art smart home systems to offer a seamless luxury living experience.
6. Kitchen & Bathroom Design: Elevating Everyday Experiences
In a luxury penthouse, the kitchen and bathrooms are not just functional - they are statements of refined living.
Kitchen Features:
Oversized Islands: Expansive marble or quartz countertops that double as dining and prep spaces.
Chef-Grade Appliances: High-end brands such as Sub-Zero, Wolf, La Cornue, and Gaggenau enhance functionality.
Custom Cabinetry: High-gloss lacquer, hand-carved wood, or matte stone textures elevate the overall design.
Bathroom Features:
Spa-Like Retreats: Heated floors, soaking tubs, rain showers, and smart mirrors turn the bathroom into a sanctuary.
Designer Fixtures: Custom vanities, marble-clad walls, and high-end faucets create an opulent feel.
Integrated Lighting: Soft backlighting behind mirrors and under vanities for a relaxing ambiance.
7. Amenity Spaces: Extending the Living Experience
Luxury penthouse living extends beyond the private residence into exclusive building amenities.
Sought-After Penthouse Amenities:
Private Wine Cellars: Climate-controlled storage for curated collections.
Sky Lounges & Entertainment Areas: Dedicated event spaces with panoramic city views.
Wellness & Spa Facilities: Private saunas, steam rooms, and plunge pools.
Fitness Centres: Boutique-style gyms with personal training spaces.
Example: At The Charleson, the private wine cellar and tasting lounge created an exclusive experience for residents, elevating the overall lifestyle offering.
8. The Final Touch: Art & Furnishings
No luxury penthouse is complete without carefully curated furniture and artwork.
Design Considerations:
Custom Furnishings: Many penthouses feature bespoke furniture pieces designed specifically for the space.
Statement Artwork: Large-scale paintings, sculptures, and installations that reflect the owner’s taste.
Layered Textiles: Silk rugs, cashmere throws, and upholstered panels that add warmth and elegance.
Example: In Cambie Gardens and Level LA, we carefully balanced contemporary elegance with personalized decor to create inviting yet luxurious atmospheres.
Final Thoughts
Designing a luxury penthouse is about more than just creating a high-end apartment - it’s about curating an exceptional living experience. From bespoke layouts to premium materials and cutting-edge technology, every detail must align with the lifestyle and expectations of high-net-worth homeowners.
Maximizing views with seamless indoor-outdoor transitions
Customizing layouts to fit the homeowner's unique needs
Selecting high-end materials for an elegant, timeless aesthetic
Integrating smart technology for effortless living
Creating spa-like sanctuaries in kitchens and bathrooms
Enhancing the lifestyle with private amenities
Luxury penthouse design is an intricate art - one that combines innovation, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance.
“I believe that if you are true to expressing yourself, coupled with the right amount of discipline and routine, your space can reflect your personality, and you can turn your home into your haven.”
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