Fenton Whelan Design a Modern London Penthouse

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a modern penthouse design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Fenton Whelan.

Situated on Kensington Gardens, Park Modern by Fenton Whelan is an extraordinary £550m residential development, showcasing 55 exquisite apartments. The crown jewel of Park Modern is the 9th floor marquee penthouse, meticulously designed by Fenton Whelan’s in-house design studio. This five-bedroom penthouse offers expansive lateral living of over 6,800 ft2. The innovative design and meticulous attention to detail bring forth unrivalled quality, surpassing the standards of London’s super-prime marketplace. Park Modern Penthouse sets a new benchmark by offering unparalleled design features, lifestyle amenities, and a truly exceptional living environment overlooking one of the most well-known parks in the world.

What was the client’s brief? 

The client’s brief was a compelling challenge – to craft an exceptional aesthetic that seamlessly merged modernity, international influences, and a timeless allure, creating a living space that resonates uniquely with each individual resident.

What inspired the design of the project?

The project’s design narrative is an homage to London’s alluring charm and the awe-inspiring Hyde Park. The essence of this iconic location served as the catalyst, infusing the design with a sense of grandeur and tranquility.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

A paramount challenge was defying spatial conventions to preserve the openness and panoramic view of one of the world’s most celebrated parks. This meant artfully avoiding the intrusion of walls, while also orchestrating an intricate dance between materials. The fusion of metal and solid wood, accentuated by the opulence of natural stone, was a technical puzzle that required meticulous craftsmanship.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Amid the array of accomplishments, the spotlight undoubtedly falls on the featured floated marble fireplace. Positioned at the heart of the space, this architectural marvel transcends conventional boundaries. The fireplace stands as a testament to our innovation, where it levitates gracefully, enveloped by marble on two sides, and adorned with transparent glass elements. Its presence not only offers warmth but also bestows an exquisite blend of design and functionality that is truly captivating. This singular element epitomizes the seamless fusion of aesthetics and engineering in our project. Among the many triumphs, the contemporary artwork stands out as a masterpiece of finesse. This piece serves as both a focal point and a harmonious complement, exuding an aura of elegance and an artistic ambiance that elevates the space.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Entering the SBID Awards was a quest for excellence and an aspiration to bring home the coveted trophy, an acknowledgment of our creative dedication, and a testament to the remarkable results we’ve achieved through our passion for design.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being selected as an Award Finalist is an immensely gratifying affirmation of the passion and dedication that have gone into these projects. This recognition on such a prestigious platform amplifies our sense of achievement, motivating us to continue pushing boundaries and redefining interior design standards.

Questions answered by Arta Marku, Creative Director at Fenton Whelan Design.