High-Rise Penthouse

This high-rise penthouse was transformed for a bachelor attorney seeking a refined, contemporary environment that highlights his passion for collecting. His only requests were to incorporate authentic antique Persian rugs, carefully curated modern artwork, and to preserve the existing stone interior walls and blonde wood flooring. He agreed that the previous owner’s dark paint colors and red countertops needed to be replaced, opening the door for a fresh new vision.

To maximize an underutilized wall behind the dining area, I designed a custom bar and painted the entire wall from floor to ceiling a deep blue shade inspired by the iconic Johnnie Walker Blue whisky box. This dramatic gesture created not only a dedicated entertainment area but also a striking focal backdrop for the dining room.

My design approach began with carefully selecting collectible-quality antique rugs as the foundation layer. These grounded the interiors with warmth, character, and a sense of history. Building upon this base, I curated a mix of elevated Mid-Century Modern furnishings and custom-designed pieces, layering in beautiful textiles with pops of color. One of my favorite discoveries was a vintage wardrobe trunk, which I reimagined as an end table. Its patina and storied past brought depth and personality to the space, echoing the client’s appreciation for objects with heritage.

The final layer of the design was a thoughtful curation of original modern artworks, selected in collaboration with the client. Together, these elements transformed the penthouse into both a private retreat and a gallery-like setting, an elegant, highly personal home that showcases his new rug and art collection.