13 Dream Penthouse Designs for Ultimate City Living

Explore 13 incredible penthouse designs that redefine luxury & rooftop living. Discover inspiring ideas for your dream luxury apartment with stunning city views.
13 Dream Penthouse Designs for Ultimate City Living
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Ever Wondered What It’s Like to Live on Top of the World? Let These 13 Penthouses Show You

I was walking downtown last week, coffee sloshing in my to-go cup so bad I had to clutch it with two hands, when I just… froze. There’s this new skyscraper—all glass and sparkle, piercing the clouds like it’s trying to high-five the sky—and I found myself craning my neck so far back I almost lost my balance. Spilled a little coffee on my shoe, too. Worth it. “What even goes on up there?” I thought. You know that feeling, right? That tiny spark of curiosity about the highest floor—like it’s a secret club only the sky gets to join.
Spoiler: More often than not, that top floor is a penthouse. But let’s be real—this isn’t just an “expensive apartment.” It’s a statement. A sanctuary. A blank canvas where architects and designers stop holding back, just to make something that feels yours, even if it’s not. If you’ve ever daydreamed about rooftop mornings—coffee in hand, views stretching miles, no noise but the wind rustling your hair—yeah, you’re in the right spot.
This isn’t just a list of fancy homes, though. It’s about those tiny daydreams we all tuck away: What would my perfect sky-high space look like? Would it be full of plants (the kind that don’t die on me)? Super sleek (no clutter, for once)? So cozy I never want to leave (even for pizza)? We’re gonna walk through 13 penthouse concepts—each with its own vibe—so by the end, don’t be surprised if you catch yourself scrolling real estate apps. No judgment. I did it too. Get ready to see how cool architecture, silly little luxuries, and views that make you gasp all come together to make homes that feel like they belong in the clouds.

1. The Verdant Sky Garden: A Penthouse Oasis of Green

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Here’s the thing about city life: We love the buzz—the coffee shops that smell like freshly baked croissants, the street musicians who make you stop and listen, the way the city feels alive at 2 AM. But sometimes? We just need to breathe. Not the “lean against a lamppost and inhale exhaust” kind of breathe. The “fresh grass, blooming flowers, quiet enough to hear a bee” kind.
This penthouse gets that. It doesn’t just stick a few sad succulents on the windowsill (guilty confession: I’ve killed three this year. Once because I overwatered it, twice because I forgot it existed). It turns the rooftop and terraces into a real garden. Imagine stepping out of your living room into a space with actual trees—big enough to sit under when the sun’s blazing—flower beds that smell like jasmine in summer, and even a tiny water feature. The trickle of water drowns out the honking below, and suddenly? You’re not in the middle of the city anymore. You’re in a park, but better—because you can walk inside and make a snack whenever you want. No packing a picnic. No fighting for a bench.
I’d spend every evening out here, book in one hand (probably a cheesy romance, no shame), iced tea in the other, watching the city glow through the leaves. Total bliss. The kind of bliss that makes you forget you have to answer work emails tomorrow.

2. The Minimalist Panorama Pod: Sleek Lines, Endless Views

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If you’re the type who looks at a cluttered counter and thinks, “I need to tidy this right now ”—this one’s for you. It’s all “less is more,” but not the cold, empty “did someone forget to move in?” kind. The good kind.
Clean lines, no random decor (goodbye, that mug your aunt gave you last Christmas with the weird cat print you hate but keep because you feel guilty), and a color palette that’s soft—whites, grays, a hint of beige, like a cloud you can touch. The star? Floor-to-ceiling glass walls. No curtains blocking the light, no bulky frames breaking the view—just you and the city.
Waking up here would feel like floating. You roll out of bed, blink a few times, and the first thing you see is the skyline, sun hitting the buildings just right. Every piece of furniture has a purpose: No “just because” chairs, no shelves filled with stuff you never use (I’m talking about that old blender you got in college that still has a sticker on it). It’s open, light, calm. Like a hug, but without the mess.
I’d never want to leave the couch—especially when it rains. Watching raindrops slide down the glass while you’re warm inside? Chef’s kiss. You could even light a candle. No need to worry about it looking “cluttered.” This space was made for that.

3. The Industrial Chic Aerostat: Raw Beauty, Refined Living

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I’ve always loved the look of converted warehouses—exposed brick, steel beams, that “I’m cool without trying” vibe. But let’s be honest: I’ve walked into a few, and they feel like caves. Dark. Cramped. Like you need a lamp at 2 PM. Once, I visited a friend’s warehouse apartment and had to squint to see her couch. Not ideal.
This penthouse fixes that. Picture exposed brick walls that add warmth (not the “this room hasn’t been painted since 1920” kind of dingy), steel beams that look fancy (not like they’re about to fall on your head), and polished concrete floors that shine. The windows? Crittall-style—those black-framed ones that feel both vintage and modern. They let in so much light, it never feels gloomy.
And the little touches? Reclaimed wood shelves for your books (the ones you actually read, not the ones you bought to look smart), metal fixtures that aren’t too flashy. It’s raw, but still luxury—like wearing a leather jacket with a nice pair of shoes. Edgy, but still cozy.
I could see myself hosting a small dinner here—candles on the table, music playing (probably some indie folk), everyone commenting on how “cool” the space is. Spoiler: I’d take all the credit. Even though I didn’t design it. Sue me.

4. The Classic Grandeur Residence: Timeless Elegance Above All

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This place feels like you’re in a movie. you know the scene. a main character walks into a fancy old mansion. and you think, “wow, i want that life.” but it’s updated. so you don’t feel like you’re living in a museum. no dusty velvet couches you’re scared to sit on. no portraits of people you don’t know staring at you while you eat.
The walls have ornate moldings. coffered ceilings make the room feel huge. herringbone wood floors are so nice you’ll want to walk barefoot. even if you usually wear socks inside—guilty. there’s probably a grand fireplace too. perfect for winter nights. you’d curl up on the couch with a glass of wine—red, obviously. watch the snow fall on the city. and forget all about the cold. no more shivering while you wait for the heater to kick in.
What about the terraces? manicured gardens with neat hedges. maybe a small classical statue that doesn’t feel too stuffy. it’s timeless. no trends that’ll make you go “what was i thinking?” in five years. this penthouse feels “established.” like it’s been here forever—even if it’s new.
And the views? obviously nice. what’s the point of classic elegance if you can’t stare at the city in a nice way? you could even host a fancy dinner party here. take out the good plates. no paper towels allowed.

5. The Smart Sky-Hub: Technology Meets Panoramic Perfection

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Remember when “smart homes” meant a thermostat you could control from your phone, but it never worked? You’d be at the grocery store, trying to turn up the heat, and it’d just say “error”? I once did that and came home to an apartment that was 55 degrees. Not fun.
This penthouse is the future we were promised—and it’s nice. No clunky gadgets, nothing that beeps at 3 AM for no reason. Everything’s seamless. Want to open the roof to stargaze? Just say, “Hey, [whatever you name your assistant]—open the roof.” No fumbling with apps, no confusing buttons. The lights adjust on their own when the sun goes down—no tripping over the coffee table in the dark (I’ve done that too many times).
The climate control? It learns your habits. If you like it cold at night (68 degrees, don’t @ me) and warm in the morning (72, perfect for lazy wake-ups), it’ll do that without you asking. Even the outside is smart: Solar panels hidden in the facade (so they don’t ruin the view) and dynamic lights that change with the time of day—soft in the morning, warm at night.
It’s luxury with a brain. I’d never get tired of saying, “Turn on the terrace lights” and watching them glow. Total party trick. Your friends would be impressed. Trust me.

6. The Entertainer's Sky Deck: The Ultimate Rooftop Party Pad

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If you’re the friend everyone calls when they want a good time—this is your penthouse. It’s designed for hosting, plain and simple. No more panicking at 4 PM because you forgot to buy ice, or running inside 10 times a night to grab drinks. I’ve been there. It’s stressful. This place fixes that.
The terrace is the star: multi-level, with a fully equipped outdoor kitchen (grill, fridge, even a mini bar—game changer). No more carrying plates of burgers from the indoor stove to the roof. There’s an infinity-edge plunge pool that overlooks the city—so your friends can dip their feet while staring at the skyline. No more driving to the beach for a swim.
When it gets dark? Fire pits with cozy lounge chairs, and a sound system that’s crisp (no tinny speakers that make your favorite song sound like it’s coming from a radio in a bathroom). It blurs the line between indoor and outdoor: You can have people inside eating pizza, outside drinking cocktails, and everyone’s still part of the party. No one feels left out.
I can already imagine a summer night here: music playing (something upbeat, like pop or reggae), laughter, the city lights below. You’d never want the party to end. (Pro tip: Invest in a good cleaner for the next morning. Trust me—you won’t want to pick up cups at 10 AM.)

7. The Bohemian Rhapsody Loft: Artistic Freedom at Altitude

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This one’s for the creatives—the people who decorate with stories, not just whatever’s in a catalog. I have a shelf full of weird little things I’ve collected: a ceramic cat from a flea market in Chicago, a tile I picked up from a broken mosaic in Portugal, a mug that says “world’s okayest baker” (accurate). This penthouse feels like that shelf, but bigger. Way bigger.
The terrace has a feature wall covered in colorful tiles—maybe from a trip to Spain, or a local artist’s studio. Hanging plants in mismatched pots: some thrifted (from that cute shop downtown), some handmade by a friend (mine makes pottery—her mugs are lopsided but perfect). The furniture looks like it has history: a wicker chair from grandma (the one she sat in every Sunday), a wooden table you built yourself (even if it’s a little lopsided—no one will notice).
It’s not “perfect” in the magazine sense. There might be a painting that’s slightly crooked, or a rug that doesn’t match the couch. But that’s why it works. It feels like you live there, not a decorator. You can put your art on the walls, your favorite rug on the floor, and no one’s gonna say, “That doesn’t match.”
It’s luxury with personality—and honestly? That’s the best kind. No one wants a home that looks like everyone else’s.

8. The Coastal Breeze Penthouse: A Seaside Escape in the Sky

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We’ve all been there: You come back from a beach vacation, unpack your suitcase (still sandy), fold your swimsuits, and stare at your apartment like, “Why does this feel so… dull?” The sheets are scratchy, the air is stuffy, and you miss that soft ocean breeze that makes you feel like you’re floating.
This penthouse answers that. It’s light, airy, like a beach house lifted up into the sky. Colors? Whites, soft blues, sandy neutrals—no dark tones that make you feel cramped. Weathered wood floors that feel like they’ve been in the sun (even if they’re brand new), linen curtains that blow in the breeze (even if it’s just from a fan—don’t tell anyone).
The terrace has light-toned outdoor furniture, striped awnings to block the sun (perfect for napping), and a hammock—because why not? Imagine waking up, making coffee (cold brew, obviously), and sitting on the terrace. You close your eyes, and for a second, you swear you can hear waves. No traffic, no crowds—just calm.
It’s a vacation that never ends. I’d trade my winter coats for this in a heartbeat. No more shoveling snow. No more freezing commutes. Just sun and soft breezes.

9. The Curator's Sky Gallery: A Penthouse Designed for Art

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My cousin collects paintings. She has them propped against her bedroom wall, hanging over the couch, even one tiny one in her bathroom (it’s a watercolor of a cat, don’t judge). She’s always saying, “I wish I had a place where they don’t just look like clutter.” Where people can actually see them, not just walk past.
This penthouse is her dream. It’s not just a home—it’s a gallery you get to live in. The architecture is designed for art: The terrace has built-in niches for sculptures, with lights that make them glow at night. No more putting your favorite statue on a random shelf. The glass walls let you see your art from outside, too—so when you’re sitting on the balcony, you’re still surrounded by the things you love.
No harsh lights that fade the paint (my cousin once had a lamp that ruined her favorite print—she still cries about it), no weird angles that hide your favorite piece. It’s sophisticated, but not stuffy. You can curl up on the couch with a book next to a masterpiece, and it feels normal. Not like you’re in a museum where you can’t touch anything.
I could see my cousin here, giving tours to friends, pointing out every little detail about each piece—“This one was painted by a student in Paris,” “I found this at a flea market in Italy.” She’d be in heaven. And honestly? I’d be right there with her, sipping wine and pretending I know art.

10. The Duplex Domain: A Multi-Level Penthouse Marvel

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Let’s talk space. I used to live in a studio apartment where my bed was literally three feet from the stove. If I wanted to work, I had to sit on the floor with my laptop on a pillow. When friends came over, someone always had to sleep on the couch—sorry, Mike, again. I still owe you a coffee for that.
So when I saw this duplex penthouse? I sighed. Like, a big, happy sigh. Two full floors of luxury, connected by a staircase that’s probably a work of art—curved wood, or steel with glass railings. No more climbing over your bed to get to the door.
The best part? Two terraces. Lower one for parties: grill, lounge chairs, all that fun stuff. Upper one for quiet: just a small table and chairs, perfect for morning coffee or late-night stargazing (with a glass of wine, obviously). More space means more possibilities: a home office that’s not your couch (no more working in your pajamas—okay, maybe sometimes), a guest room so friends don’t have to sleep on the floor (sorry, Mike, you’re off the hook), a closet big enough to actually organize your clothes (no more piles of sweaters on the chair).
It’s rooftop living, but with room to breathe. No more feeling like you’re crammed into a tiny city box. I’d probably spend all day moving between floors, just because I can. “Oh, I left my book upstairs!” “I need a snack—downstairs I go!” It’s the little things.

11. The Wrap-Around Vista: A 360-Degree Penthouse Spectacle

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I’m the person who moves their couch three times a year just to chase the sunlight. “If I put it here, I’ll get morning light!” Two weeks later: “No, this spot is better for sunset!” My roommate thinks I’m crazy. She’s probably right.
This penthouse fixes that. Why pick one view when you can have all of them? It has a terrace that wraps around the whole building (or most of it). So in the morning, you can watch the sunrise over the park from one side. By lunch, you’re on the other side, staring at the river. At night? You turn again to watch the skyline light up. No more running from window to window to catch the good light—it’s all right there.
The design makes sure nothing blocks the view: extensive glass, multiple doors to the terrace, railings that are thin (but safe!). It’s immersive—like the city is your personal movie, and you get the best seat in the house.
I’d probably spend hours just walking around the terrace, checking out every angle. “Oh, look! The library’s over there!” “Wow, the bridge looks so pretty from here!” I’d be that person. But who cares? It’s worth it. No more couch-moving marathons. No more missing the sunset because you’re in the wrong room.

12. The Eco-Conscious Canopy: Sustainable Luxury High Above

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I try to be sustainable. I use reusable bags (even when I forget and have to buy one—oops), I recycle (most of the time—don’t ask about the plastic straws), I even have a pothos plant that’s somehow still alive (shoutout to you, little guy). But sometimes it feels like choosing “green” means giving up style. Like, you can have a sustainable home, but it has to look like a hippie commune (no shade—just not my vibe).
This penthouse proves that’s not true. It’s got a green roof—plants that help absorb rainwater and cool the building—so you’re saving water and staying cool. No more cranking the AC in summer. Solar panels that blend into the facade (so they don’t look like an afterthought—no more ugly boxes on the roof). A rainwater harvesting system for the garden.
The materials? All sustainable: recycled steel, reclaimed wood, no toxic paints. The terrace has native plants that help local bees and birds (I once saw a hummingbird in my friend’s garden—best day ever). It’s forward-thinking, but it’s still fancy. The views are amazing, the interior is nice, and you get that good feeling of knowing you’re doing your part.
It’s a win-win. I’d be proud to call this home—for me and the planet. No more choosing between style and sustainability. Finally.

13. The Glass Pavilion Peak: Living Within the View

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I’m a little scared of heights. Like, if I’m on a balcony, I won’t go near the edge unless someone’s holding my hand. Once, I went to a rooftop bar and stood against the wall the whole time. My friends made fun of me. I didn’t care.
But this penthouse? It’s so cool I’d get over it. Like, immediately. It’s like a glass box perched on top of a skyscraper. The structural parts are minimal—no thick walls, no bulky columns. Just vast expanses of floor-to-ceiling, frameless glass. You feel like you’re in the sky, not just looking at it.
The terrace? An extension of that glass space, with glass railings so there’s nothing between you and the view. At first, you might hesitate—“Is this safe?”—but once you sit down with a drink and look out? It’s incredible. You can be cooking in the kitchen and still see the skyline. You can be reading in bed and watch the sunset.
It’s rooftop living at its most connected—to the city, to the sky, to everything around you. I’d probably take a million photos (sorry, friends, your feeds would be flooded). But who wouldn’t? This place is breathtaking. Even for someone scared of heights.

Dreaming of Your Own Sky-High Sanctuary?

From gardens that feel like they’re floating to glass pavilions that let you live in the view, penthouse design is all about making your sky-high dreams come true. Each of these 13 concepts is a different way to do rooftop living—some are cozy, some are flashy, some are all about nature or tech. But they all have one thing in common: They’re more than just luxury apartments. They’re a lifestyle—one with views that take your breath away, privacy that feels like a gift, and the pride of living at the very top of the city.
I hope this made you daydream a little—maybe even grab a notebook and jot down what your perfect penthouse would have. Would it be the bohemian one with all the thrifted finds? The minimalist pod that’s calm and bright? Or the eco-conscious one that’s good for the planet?
I already know my pick: The Verdant Sky Garden. I’d bring my favorite book (the one with the golden retriever on the cover, you know the one) and a glass of iced tea, and sit under that tree until the sun went down. No work emails, no city noise—just me and the leaves. After all, who wouldn’t want a little piece of the sky to call their own?
Let me know—what’s your dream sky-high spot?
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