LIVING SPACE
A sophisticated scheme featuring precious finishes and plush fabrics does justice to this penthouse with breathtaking views
Striking views and plush finishes in an impressive glass penthouse.
The mix of cashmere, silk, velvet and fur adds a cosy element to the scheme.”
CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE PROPERTY?
Situated in St Moritz, this striking Norman Foster-designed penthouse extension to an older stone building was originally two apartments. My clients amalgamated it into one and most of the internal walls were removed. The main living space is an exaggerated L shape and consists of a television area centred around the fireplace, a more formal sitting area and a large dining space featuring a five-metre-long table.
HOW DID YOU DEVISE THE FURNITURE LAYOUT?
The two seating areas were very much dictated by the views; it made sense to make this the more formal seating area where the layout is oriented towards the vista – hence the low-line stools next to the window, which don’t obstruct the window and can easily be moved on castors. The second sitting area focuses on the fireplace and features an L-shaped sofa and a large ottoman. Our clients love to entertain families and this configuration enables adults and children to be together, yet have their own spaces.
WHAT INSPIRED THE COLOUR PALETTE?
I believe you have to consider the light outside. Here, the reflection of the snow makes the spaces very bright, so we started with an off-white backdrop to enhance it; the curtains, made using bespoke cashmere, are also off-white, encouraging the eye to travel to the view. We added stronger colours to ground the space; the rugs, which are inspired by Italian textiles, were the starting point. We found the patterned handwoven silk velvet for the cushions and had fur dyed deep blue. The mix of cashmere, silk, velvet and fur adds a cosy element to the space.
TELL US ABOUT SOME OF THE KEY FINISHES.
We wanted to nod to chalet style in a sophisticated way, so we used fumed oak flooring and matched it with an oak veneer on the fire surround. The chimney breast is covered in hair on hide panels, which bring another dimension to the scheme. We added more richness with precious materials such as patinated bronze for the curved stools and scagliola side tables, with burnished brass for the coffee table.
HOW IS THE ROOM LIT AT NIGHT?
A multifunctional space of this scale required careful thought. We asked lighting expert Sally Storey to create the scheme, which features a system that can be very bright when required and very dim in the evening, in order to enjoy the spectacular view by night. Table and floor lamps in metal finishes bring a subtle glow to the heart of the room.