Living in (black & white) DESIGN

When you say penthouse, you think of a huge well designed huge apartment. When you say Black&White, you most of the time think - boring... 

I must say I am not the biggest fan of Black & White interior as well, but this house is really special.

This penthouse was designed by spanish architect Héctor Ruiz-Velázquez. The shape of this penthouse if very unusual, and besides the space is just 60 square meters! Can you imagine a penthouse being so small? 

But what attracts in this house is its DESIGN! Wow, to me this is the top of what you call design your house. I love those shapes! 

Source: Design Idee

House for sale: Martha Stewart's Penthouse

Are you looking for a penthouse around the Hudson River, New York? You might want to consider this one.  It's Martha Stewart's house..

 Light seems to be coming in from all directions, with these amazing floor to ceiling windows.

The industrial looks combined with white furniture create a great modern look.

Always enjoy the heat of sun on your skin, with no worries. These windows are UV protected.

There's no need to set your alarm any longer: The sun will wake you up!

The view down the Hudson river is incredible.

Having a glass of wine, in the middle of NYC Skyscrapers..

Yes, of course it's the top (15th) floor which will be yours..

A gorgeous evening view down the city, while having dinner..

And at last, watch the sunset over the Hudson River..

Do I need to say more?

Kips Bay Decorator Show House 2010: Jennifer Post

I started my tour of this year's Kips Bay Decorator Show House at the top with the Penthouse designed by Jennifer Post and worked my way down.  After I stopped huffing and puffing, I was able to admire the three spaces (yoga room, television room, and terrace) that encompass the entire sixth floor.  By the way, there is an elevator which should be working during the regular tours.  Jennifer was not on hand for my tour but according to the press materials she is known for her "exploration of minimalism within a black and white palette.  Infused with artful mystery and visually calming vignettes, Post's designs possess the ability to transform from a living space throughout the day, into a glamorous entertainment space at night." 

I have to admit that I don't normally like minimal design or a lack of color but I really liked this space.  There were a lot of tones and textures in the television area which made it warm and cozy.  I could see the penthouse floor being a wonderful place to workout and also relax.  I was also thinking that if you created a bedroom area instead of the yoga studio, you could create a fabulous master bedroom suite or separate apartment for an older child living with their parents.  There was a little kitchenette by the terrace which means you wouldn't always have to run down to the first floor a drink.

The best thing about show houses is that the style of the rooms doesn't have to reflect your own aesthetic for you to be able to appreciate them.  I always come away with new resources and inspiring ideas for future projects and I hope you do too!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic