How to decorate a luxury penthouse: a comprehensive guide

Furnishing a luxury penthouse is an art that requires taste, experience, and a significant knowledge of design brands, products, and materials. Whether it is an elegant penthouse in Rome, a contemporary apartment in New York, or a luxurious residence in a Dubai skyscraper, the aim is to create an environment that reflects the prestige and uniqueness of the location while ensuring comfort and functionality.

Decorating a high-rise apartment presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The panoramic views and natural light are incredible, but to make the space truly welcoming, it requires a thoughtful approach to interior design, involving expert professionals to ensure excellent results.

Careful selection of furniture, colours and accessories is essential to harmonise the stunning beauty of the skyline with the comfort of the home. In addition to aesthetics, functionality and quality must also be taken into account. Made in Italy design furniture undoubtedly represents excellence. To achieve a harmonious and refined result, it is essential to choose the best design brands, such as Poliform, Cassina, B&B Italia, Flexform, Poltrona Frau, Baxter and Giorgetti, to ensure that each piece chosen contributes to a coherent and refined atmosphere.

Choose low furniture and avoid tall furniture

Choosing low profile furniture for a penthouse is a strategic decision that not only enhances functionality, but also the aesthetic appeal of the living space. This choice ensures that panoramic views remain unobstructed, allowing natural light to filter through and creating a sense of openness.

Low profile furniture, such as contemporary sofas and minimalist coffee tables, not only accentuate the spaciousness of the rooms, but also embody the sophisticated simplicity characteristic of luxury design. Iconic pieces such as B&B Italia's Camaleonda sofa and Tufty-Time sofa perfectly embody this philosophy, as they are low sofas that do not obstruct the view and enhance the perception of space.

Define the “rooms” of your open space

Open-plan living is a hallmark of high-rise apartments, providing a versatile canvas for interior design. Symmetry is crucial in such spaces, providing a sense of order and balance. By strategically placing different rugs, it is possible to delineate different areas such as the living, dining and kitchen areas without the need for physical barriers, maintaining a sense of openness and spaciousness.

The arrangement of furniture becomes an art form, with each piece chosen not only for its aesthetic beauty but also for its ability to define spaces. For example, a strategically placed sofa can separate the living area from the dining area, and a console placed behind it can reinforce this division.

The right arrangement of furniture and decoration creates an environment where each 'room' within the open space is clearly defined, while maintaining an overall cohesive and harmoniously integrated look.

High rise living room ideas

Once the "rooms"of the high-rise apartment have been carefully planned, it is time to select the furnishings. This step is crucial in bringing the intended design to life, ensuring that each piece not only complements the layout but also enhances the overall aesthetic. The focus on luxury, comfort and functionality becomes paramount, with each selection reflecting the sophistication expected in such an setting.

Low sofa

In a high-rise apartment, each piece of furniture must be carefully chosen to combine functionality and style without compromising the spectacular views. A low sofa is not only an aesthetically refined choice, but also a strategic one: it respects the principle of preserving unobstructed views, while adding a touch of discreet elegance to the living room.

The low profile sofa ensures that the interior does not compete with the exterior views, instead providing a luxurious yet comfortable seating option. For those who love design, the Gogan sofa, designed by Patricia Urquiola for Moroso, is an excellent solution, with a low seat and a compact, soft design. Valuable alternatives include Cassina's Soriana sofa, with its modern lines and unparalleled comfort, or Edra's iconic On the Rocks sofa. For those who prefer a cleaner, more linear design, Poliform sofas or B&B Italia sofas are available.

The choice of high quality fabrics and leather, combined with durable materials such as solid wood or metal frames, not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the sofa, but also ensures uncompromising longevity.

Daybed or chaise longue

A daybed or chaise longue in a penthouse or high-rise living room offers a versatile and stylish seating solution. These pieces of furniture not only add a touch of elegance, but also help to optimise the use of space by creating a comfortable corner for relaxation. An icon of contemporary design is undoubtedly the Terminal 1 chaise longue by B&B Italia. Equally attractive and comfortable alternatives are the Ginger chaise longue and the Happy chaise longue, designed by Antonio Citterio for Flexform.

Open plan kitchen

In addition to the living area, the kitchen area is a crucial consideration, often merging with the living area in an open plan space. The kitchen in a penthouse is not only a space for preparing meals, but also a focal point for socialising and entertaining guests. It is therefore important to choose kitchen appliances and furniture with care, opting for high-quality solutions that offer a balance between functionality and design.

It is advisable to opt for cutting-edge and functional islands or peninsulas, well-designed cabinets that maximise the space available, and high-quality, durable materials. Attention to detail is essential to ensure that the kitchen area blends perfectly with the rest of the open space living room, contributing to a cosy and refined atmosphere.

Opt for a monochromatic

scheme

When it comes to choosing colours for walls, floors and furniture, it is advisable to follow a monochromatic scheme. This approach creates a harmonious and cohesive interior that exudes sophistication and elegance. A monochromatic palette focuses on texture and form, ensuring that the space is carefully designed in keeping with the distinctive elegance of penthouse living.

For example, designing a living room with light grey or dove grey walls combined with sofas upholstered in a darker grey and light, richly textured carpets can create a visual layering that adds depth to the room. This choice of monochrome colours and materials not only creates a cosy atmosphere, but is also aesthetically pleasing.

Add unique design accessories

Designer accessories reflect the owner's taste and add personality and style to the apartment. Each piece, whether it is a piece of art, an exclusive lamp or a handmade vase, must be carefully chosen to match the overall design of the home. These details not only make the space unique, but also tell the story and taste of the owner. A simple mirror or a decorative sculpture can become focal points, adding character and charm to the living space.

Curtains for optimal light control

The abundance of natural light is one of the main benefits of living in a penthouse, but it makes the use of curtains essential. Not only do curtains need to effectively manage the high levels of light, but they also need to blend in with the design of the apartment. The use of modern, high quality fabrics can ensure both functionality and aesthetics, enhancing privacy and comfort without compromising the visual appeal of the room. Choosing curtains made from innovative materials such as high-tech sunscreens or advanced filtering fabrics can help create the perfect balance of light, privacy and style.

Designer lighting for a skyscraper apartment

Lighting is the final touch that can transform a well-designed space into an interior design masterpiece. The right lighting highlights the architectural features of the penthouse, enhances the artwork on the walls and creates a welcoming atmosphere.

In the living area, for example, it is important to ensure that the lighting not only enhances the space and architecture, but also matches the design of the apartment. Items such as the Light Ring Horizontal suspension lamp by Henge or the timeless Arco floor lamp by Flos are perfect in this context, offering lighting solutions that combine aesthetics with functionality.

In a penthouse or high-rise apartment, lighting also plays a crucial role in compensating for the lack of natural light in certain areas, especially those that are more indoors or less exposed. The use of spotlights or recessed lights can create a sense of spaciousness and brightness even in more enclosed spaces.

Penthouse bedroom: comfort and luxury

Furnishing a penthouse bedroom is an opportunity to create a charming and comfortable personal retreat. To make the most of the vertical space, always choose low furniture and clean lines that accentuate the ceiling height and create a sense of openness.

An elegantly designed bed can become the focal point of the room. The Kelly bed by Poliform and the Aurora Tre bed by Poltrona Frau are two examples of beds that combine style and comfort, ideal for a refined environment. The Kelly bed, with a fabric headboard and wooden bed frame, adds a touch of classic elegance, while the Coupé bed, fully upholstered in leather, adds a sophisticated look with its refined design.

Neutral colors on the walls enhance the natural light streaming in from the panoramic windows, creating an airy and relaxing atmosphere. The addition of soft fabrics and cosy textures, such as soft carpets and decorative cushions, personalises the ambience. The choice of functional, high quality furniture ensures that each element respects not only aesthetics but also everyday comfort, transforming the penthouse bedroom into an oasis of luxury.

Outdoor furniture for the perfect high-rise terrace

Furnishing the terrace of a penthouse or high-rise apartment requires special attention to detail and careful selection of furniture and accessories. The first step is to choose quality weatherproof furniture, such as teak or anodised aluminium tables and chairs, which are not only elegant but also durable and practical.

The Vis à Vis outdoor sofa by Tribù is an ideal choice for wood lovers, with its attractive teak inserts adding warmth and character to the outdoor space. The Elements outdoor sofa by Manutti, on the other hand, features a contemporary design and an LED strip at the base that gently illuminates outdoor evenings.

For those seeking an informal and relaxed atmosphere, the Maia outdoor hanging sofa by Kettal offers a unique experience, ideal for immersing yourself in the comfort and tranquillity of your own terrace, perhaps enjoying the breathtaking views of Miami Bay, the New York skyline or the incredible Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

Designer sun umbrellas or awnings can be used to provide shade during the hottest hours.

Lighting is essential: LED lanterns, adjustable spotlights and outdoor lights create the perfect atmosphere for outdoor evenings.

You can also incorporate natural elements such as plants in large ceramic or resin pots, choosing varieties that thrive on balconies, such as lavender, olive trees or bougainvillea, to add a touch of greenery that completes the interior in a harmonious way. Paola Lenti, B&B Italia Outdoor, Kettal, Roda and Talenti are just some of the luxury outdoor brands that produce a wide range of outdoor furniture and accessories that guarantee uncompromising quality, design and comfort.

Indoor plants

Incorporating greenery into a high-rise apartment provides a vibrant contrast to the urban landscape outside. Indoor plants not only purify the air, but also bring a sense of freshness to any living space. The strategic placement of these plants can enhance the overall aesthetic, bringing life and colour to modern interiors.

The choice of plants should be in harmony with the overall style, with elegant pots that evoke the luxury finishes typical of high-end design, creating a harmonious blend of natural beauty and design excellence. In the living area, for example, a simple flower pot placed above the Concorde table by Poliform or the Xilos table by Maxalto adds colour and vibrancy. A potted tree gently illuminated by sunlight can create an elegant and natural effect. Simple flowers on a coffee table, on the other hand, add a discreet yet sophisticated touch.

In conclusion, decorating a penthouse or high-rise apartment is a sophisticated art that combines aesthetics, functionality and luxury. Each design choice must take into account the unique characteristics and potential of these distinctive spaces, transforming them into extraordinary environments. This creative process is not just about arranging furniture and accessories; it is about creating unique and memorable experiences for those who live there.