Refined and well connected

Designed by Penny Del Castillo, Studio Del Castillo

From the designer:

Perched above the city, this penthouse kitchen balances elegance and function, intimacy and openness. 

After eight years in the apartment, the owners sought a space that better supported their lifestyle – where cooking and connection could coexist and be celebrated. 

The existing kitchen and butler’s pantry had become barriers, often isolating Nonna (grandmother) from family gatherings. 

The solution was clear – dissolve these divisions and create a kitchen that fosters both efficiency and shared experience.

Functionality and spatial design 

The new kitchen is reconfigured as an open, flowing space extending into the living and dining areas while the former butler’s pantry becomes a discreet support zone with a concealed appliance station for visual clarity. 

A near-silent exhaust system preserves the atmosphere, while seating for four to five guests encourages conversation without disrupting food preparation. 

Custom joinery ensures accessible storage and maintains a refined aesthetic.

Materiality and atmosphere

A palette of brass and timber introduces warmth, counterbalancing the penthouse’s scale with tactile richness. 

The bold veining of Cote d’Azur natural stone defines the benchtops, splashback, and fireplace plinth – lending a sculptural quality that grounds the space in natural luxury. 

A brass-flued fireplace anchors the space, reinforcing cohesion and permanence. 

Light and reflection interact dynamically, enhancing depth and changing through the day.

Sustainability and longevity 

Throughout, it was integral that material choices prioritised durability and environmental responsibility. 

Responsibly sourced timber, energy-efficient lighting, and high-performance appliances contribute to a design that endures without excess, as well as optimising internal orientation to reduce reliance on external energy.

The wider transformation of the apartment centres around this heart-of-the-home kitchen. 

More than a place to prepare meals, it is a space of gathering and ritual, where everyday moments are elevated. 

The kitchen is a quiet expression of refinement, seamlessly embedded in the rhythms of home life.

Story by: Trendsideas