Logue Studio Design Inc.

Marquee Penthouse

The world appears different when viewing it from 30,000 feet above. Forms and masses that seemed distinct from the ground become apart of a larger picture that is more closely linked and related when viewed from the air. Cartography is about the big picture and as the co-creator of map and navigation software, the penthouse’s owner seemed very much linked to the big picture. His personal space is influenced by this interconnected way of looking at the world. These influences include, the sleek modern lines that have been apart of his Danish heritage, the use of technology, and a quality of “airiness” in the design that might be associated with the concept of flight and motion.

The 2600 square foot San Francisco penthouse it situated within an historic concrete industrial building with an open floor plan. Each space within the unit explores innovation and stands in contrast to the industrial materials and finishes of the existing space.

As one enters the unit, they immediately take notice of an overhead glass and stainless steel lighting chase-way that interconnects several areas of the main floor. This light channel gives the impression of movement as the suspended steel and glass ceiling and lighting elements slip along surfaces and around corners in a manner that resembles energy moving about a circuit board. The entry, main corridor, living room, dining room and kitchen are visually linked by this suspended glass lighting system that along with the LED lighting can change color to modify the space’s ambiance.

Extended off of the glass channels, “winged” ceiling canopies define activity areas beneath them. The frames of the suspended wings are made of stainless steel with a PVC film stretched between. To further enhance the concept of flight within the space, an aluminum fuselage is used as a screen to divide the living room space from the elevated master bedroom. The fuselage has operable panels that open and close to regulate light emitted into the bedroom. Below the panels are concealed rotating bookshelves that are affixed to a hidden motorized platform extending beneath the bedroom area. At the push of a button The platform extends outward into the living room as a reading space complete with sofa and book storage. The kitchen also has a host of technological features that enhance one’s experience within the space. Like the operable reading space, the kitchen’s island has extendable counter surfaces that open to reveal cook fryers, a steamer and griddle beneath them. The kitchen’s upper wall cabinetry has SwitchLite glass incorporated into their frames that go from opaque to transparent at the touch of a switch to allow one to view the contents within the cabinet.

While also incorporating technology into their design and functionality, the main bathrooms of the penthouse contrast each other significantly. The master bathroom is seen as an extension of the bedroom space. Wall tiles that resemble Cortin steel are used as a visual connection to the industrial backdrop of the space. Glass partitions define the steam and shower room area. Within the space, sinuous stainless steel seating appears to float from the walls.

In contrast, the Spa bathroom’s design separates itself from the rest of the penthouse’s industrial feel. Rectangular white subway tiles and a white sculptured wave pattern accent the walls of space. The bathroom contains a two-person soak tub, a shower spa and a dry sauna. Each of these areas is operated by way of an electronic control panel, including the tub fillers which when operated, fill the soaking tub minutes from the seven ceiling mounted laminar tub fillers.

Finally, a glass and stainless steel stair connect the first floor to the second level’s 18-person balconied theater room. The space is designed with a transformable bar area that unfolds as needed along with a stowable popcorn cart. In addition, an elevated niche area was designed to house the owner’s significant DVD collection in an operable storage wall system that he could peruse before selecting a desired film to view.
Country: United States