When you think of penthouse living, you probably imagine breathtaking panoramic views, soaring high ceilings, and the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. But, stepping into a penthouse apartment with blank walls and an open floor plan can feel overwhelming even for those with a good eye for design.
How do you create a space that feels warm, inviting, and sophisticated without losing that airy, open feeling? That’s exactly what I’m going to walk you through today.
Styling a penthouse isn’t just about filling it with high-quality furniture and beautiful art. It’s about maximizing the natural light, making the most of your outdoor space, and choosing design elements that work harmoniously together to bring warmth, style, and personality into every corner.
As a real estate broker in Toronto who helps clients buy, sell, rent, and invest in luxury real estate, I’ve seen firsthand what separates a stunning penthouse from just another top-floor apartment. Today, I’ll share practical advice on how to style a penthouse so that it reflects your personality and fully embraces the natural beauty and architecture around it.
Let’s get started!
Tip 1: Start with the Basics: Understand Your Penthouse’s Architecture
Before diving into furniture and décor, it’s important to start by understanding the architecture of your penthouse.
Every penthouse is unique. Taking the time to study these elements will help you create a space that feels truly one-of-a-kind.
Respect the Natural Light and Views
One of the main benefits of penthouse living is the abundance of natural light.
Thanks to large windows, sliding glass doors, and sometimes even skylights, penthouse apartments are flooded with sunshine. When you style your space, the first step is to work with the light rather than against it. Maximize natural light by choosing sheer window treatments or none at all. Secondly, arrange your furniture in a way that doesn’t block those spectacular views.
Open Space Is Your Friend
Unlike other apartments, penthouses often feature open floor plans.
Open space creates a sense of grandeur, but it can also feel empty if not styled correctly. Use rugs, lighting, and furniture placement to subtly divide areas like the dining area, living room, and media room without closing off the open feel.
Tip 2: Focus on Natural Elements and Materials
Bringing natural elements and materials into your penthouse design is a great way to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Using features like wood, stone, and natural fabrics helps to balance the sleekness of modern spaces. It helps make them feel more comfortable and connected to the environment.
Focusing on these materials will also highlight the natural beauty of your penthouse’s architecture.
Bring the Outdoors In
A key to creating a harmonious blend between your indoor and outdoor space is to use natural materials like reclaimed wood, stone, and metal frames in your furniture and decor. Whether it’s a reclaimed wood coffee table or metal-framed chairs in your dining room, natural elements bring warmth and authenticity to the space.
Choose Soft Fabrics and Warm Neutrals
Adding soft fabrics like velvet or linen to your upholstery can instantly bring warmth to a modern, contemporary design. Stick with a colour scheme of warm neutrals. You’ll want to think creams, taupes, and soft greys. This will help to create a soothing, luxurious feel throughout your penthouse.
Tip 3: Plan Your Lighting for Every Mood
Lighting plays a vital role in setting the mood and enhancing the overall feel of your penthouse.
A well-thought-out lighting plan can make the space feel warm, vibrant, and inviting at any time of day.
By layering different types of lighting and choosing fixtures that complement your style, you can create a flexible atmosphere that shifts seamlessly from bright and energetic to soft and relaxing.
Layered Lighting Is Key
When it comes to penthouse design, layered lighting plays a vital role.
Use a mix of floor lamps, table lamps, recessed lights, and ambient light fixtures to create different moods.
In the dining room, consider a bold pendant light as a focal point, while recessed lights can highlight artwork or architectural features throughout the living space.
Don’t Forget the Vertical Space
Penthouse living often comes with high ceilings.
Instead of leaving all that vertical space empty, use tall floor lamps, oversized art pieces, and statement lighting to draw the eye upward, emphasizing the grandeur of the room.
Tip 4: Curate High-Quality Furniture That Speaks to Your Lifestyle
Choosing the right furniture isn’t just about filling a room. It’s about creating a space that feels like home.
In this section, we’ll explore how to curate high-quality pieces that reflect your lifestyle, support your daily routines, and bring lasting comfort and style to your penthouse.
Invest in the Right Pieces
Choosing high-quality furniture is critical. Look for items that are both stylish and durable, especially if you plan to entertain guests often. A low sofa with clean lines can add a contemporary touch to your living room, while a sturdy, elegant dining table can serve as the heart of your dining area.
Create Hidden Storage
More space doesn’t mean you want clutter.
Hidden storage solutions like ottomans that open up or built-in shelving behind sleek doors keep your living space feeling open and uncluttered.
Tip 5: Make Outdoor Space an Extension of Your Home
Your outdoor space is just as much a part of your penthouse as the rooms inside.
In this section, we’ll show you how to design terraces, balconies, and rooftop patios that feel like natural extensions of your living space. These tips will help make them perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and taking in the view of the city.
Furnish Outdoor Areas Thoughtfully
If your penthouse has a terrace, balcony, or rooftop patio, treat it like another room.
Invest in outdoor furniture made from natural materials like teak or weather-resistant wicker. Use outdoor rugs, string lights, and cozy seating areas to create a relaxing vibe where you can entertain guests or unwind with a view.
Maximize the Connection Between Indoors and Outdoors
Sliding glass doors make it easy to transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. Arrange indoor seating areas near these doors to create a natural flow. The goal is for your outdoor space to feel like a seamless extension of your living area.
Tip 6: Design Each Room with Purpose
In a penthouse, every square foot counts and every room should have a clear purpose.
Next, we’ll dive into how intentional design choices can elevate each space, creating a seamless flow that matches both your lifestyle and the luxury of your surroundings.
Define the Living Room
The living room is often the heart of a penthouse.
To make it both beautiful and functional, position your furniture around a focal point. Keep the space open but inviting by using soft fabrics, warm neutrals, and layered lighting.
Create a Dining Area That Encourages Connection
Your dining room should be more than just a place to eat, it should be a place to gather.
Choose a table that fits the scale of the room and your entertaining needs. Pair it with comfortable chairs and ambient lighting to create an intimate atmosphere.
Personalize the Penthouse Bedroom
The penthouse bedroom should feel like your personal sanctuary.
Use soft, luxurious fabrics on your bed, incorporate natural elements like reclaimed wood nightstands, and stick to a calming, neutral colour scheme. Don’t forget to use ambient and task lighting for a layered, cozy effect.
Add Character to the Media Room
A media room is a must-have in any luxury apartment.
Darker wall colours, plush seating, and layered lighting can make this space feel warm and inviting. Use hidden storage to keep electronics out of sight and maintain a clean, streamlined look.
Tip 7: Incorporate Statement Pieces and Art Thoughtfully
Statement pieces and art aren’t just finishing touches. Instead, they’re what give a penthouse its character. We’ll explore how to choose and place standout items thoughtfully, creating a space that feels curated, personal, and effortlessly sophisticated.
Make Art Part of the Design Process
Art isn’t just an afterthought, it should be integrated into your penthouse design from the beginning.
Large, bold pieces look incredible against clean lines and neutral colours. Whether you choose contemporary design or more traditional styles, the right art can add personality and soul to your space.
Use Statement Furniture Sparingly
One or two standout pieces like a sculptural coffee table or a striking armchair can elevate a room’s design without overwhelming it. The key is to let these items breathe in the space so they can truly shine.
Tip 8: Keep It Aesthetically Pleasing Yet Practical
Luxury living is all about balance. Your penthouse should look stunning, but also feel effortless to live in.
Tip 8 covers how to design spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical, blending beauty with everyday functionality.
Prioritize Comfort and Function
While it’s tempting to focus only on the look, comfort and practicality matter too. Choose furniture that feels as good as it looks, and design each room with its daily function in mind.
Maintain Clean Lines
Whether you’re styling your dining area, living room, or bedroom, clean lines help maintain a modern, sophisticated aesthetic. Avoid overcrowding rooms with too much furniture or overly ornate decor.
Tip 9: Work With Professional Interior Designers If Needed
Whether you’re styling your dining area, living room, or bedroom, clean lines help maintain a modern, sophisticated aesthetic. Avoid overcrowding rooms with too much furniture or overly ornate decor.
Tap into Expert Advice
If you’re not sure how to style a penthouse to its full potential, working with professional interior designers can be a smart move. They can help you create a cohesive look, maximize natural light, and ensure every design element feels intentional and luxurious.
Stay True to Your Style
Even if you work with experts, remember that this is your home. It should reflect your personality, tastes, and lifestyle. Choose pieces and design styles that resonate with you, rather than blindly following trends.
Tip 10: Don’t Forget the Final Touches
It’s the small details that truly complete a penthouse. By following the tips below, you’ll see how final touches like textiles, lighting, and accessories can tie everything together.
Add Personality Through Accessories
Small touches like throw pillows, layered rugs, textured curtains, and interesting sculptures can add character without cluttering the space.
Bring Warmth with Plants and Natural Elements
Plants are a simple but powerful way to bring warmth and natural beauty into your penthouse. Choose easy-care greenery that thrives in bright light to complement your space.
Final Thoughts On Styling A Penthouse
Penthouse living is all about embracing natural light, panoramic views, open space, and luxurious design. However, styling your penthouse takes more than just buying nice furniture. It’s about creating a harmonious blend of natural materials, soft fabrics, statement pieces, and thoughtful lighting to make your penthouse feel like home. Whether you’re buying your first penthouse or simply refreshing your current living space, the design process can be as exciting as the spectacular views you’ll enjoy every day.
If you’re considering your next real estate move whether it’s finding your dream penthouse, selling your current property, or investing in a luxury apartment, reach out to me, Toronto REALTOR® Marco Pedri. I’m here to help you navigate the Toronto real estate market with confidence and make sure your next move is your best one yet.
