Perched above the bustle of Covent Garden in a Grade II listed merchant’s house, this duplex penthouse combines bold architectural gestures with meticulous, finely detailed joinery. Designed by Carmody Groarke, the project transforms the top two floors into a striking home that balances contemporary living with the character of the historic property.
We worked closely with the architects to create seamless joinery across both floors. Our team crafted and installed American black walnut panelling, cabinetry, a stainless-steel kitchen, and bespoke furniture, each element tailored to flow together. The joinery connects the kitchen to the staircase, corridor panelling, concealed doors, and integrated storage, creating a cohesive rhythm throughout the space. Subtle features, including warming drawers, fold-back bar panels, and a secret lift door, were integrated to maintain the simplicity of the design.
Sitting on top of the Grade II listed merchant’s house in one of London’s busiest neighbourhoods, the two-storey penthouse presented what Ross Norgate describes as their most demanding installation. “This was one of the most logistically challenging projects we’ve undertaken,” he explains. “Not just because of the location, but because the joinery was so interconnected – one misalignment could impact the entire flow of the installation.”
The project required careful planning and precision to translate complex designs into reality. Each veneer, panel, and component was meticulously measured and executed to achieve millimeter-perfect alignment, ensuring the finished interior reflects both technical mastery and considered design.
A curated palette of American black walnut, ash, silver travertine, and stainless steel defines the interior, with materials chosen for both their visual impact and functional performance. Hidden details are fully integrated into the joinery, ensuring the space feels precise and highly practical. The project exemplifies how careful material selection and meticulous craftsmanship can bring ambitious architectural design to life.
Architects: Carmody Groarke
