Fenton Whelan Design Balances Contemporary Aesthetics With Timeless Character

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a sophisticated penthouse design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Fenton Whelan Design.

Fenton Whelan Design was commissioned to design the interiors of a penthouse, with a vision of refined international luxury. The design merges modern minimalism with Asian-inspired details, expressed through rich textures, sculptural forms, and a harmonious palette of soft neutrals accented by green and blue. Calacatta marble, bespoke furnishings, and curated artwork bring depth and elegance to each space. From the panoramic city views of the living room to the serene, layered bedrooms, every detail reflects thoughtful craftsmanship. The result is a sophisticated, tranquil residence that balances contemporary aesthetics with timeless character and global influence.

What was the client’s brief?

The client wanted a home that transcended the idea of a traditional penthouse — a space that was at once modern and timeless, offering both dramatic views and a calm sanctuary. Their brief centred on creating a refined environment for entertaining while still feeling deeply personal and liveable.

What inspired the design of the project?

The inspiration came from the dialogue between architecture and lifestyle. With panoramic views as the backdrop, the design sought to frame the skyline while layering in warmth through textures, craftsmanship, and carefully curated details. We were inspired by the idea of “quiet luxury” — elevating every finish, proportion, and piece of furniture so the space feels sophisticated yet effortless.

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

Balancing bold architectural gestures with intimacy was our greatest challenge. We wanted to honour the scale of the penthouse without losing the sense of comfort that makes a home truly inviting. Achieving that harmony required a meticulous approach to proportion, zoning, and lighting — ensuring the space feels both expansive and human.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The moment of installation, when all the layered elements — bespoke joinery, tailored furnishings, curated art — came together. Seeing the client walk into a space that reflected both their aspirations and our vision was an incredibly rewarding highlight for the team.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

SBID represents excellence in global design, and entering the Awards felt like the right platform to benchmark our work against the very best in the industry. It was also an opportunity to share a project we are truly proud of with an audience that values innovation, craft, and impact.

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

Being shortlisted has been both validating and motivating. It reinforces our belief in pushing boundaries and confirms that our design philosophy resonates beyond the client. For the studio, it has opened new conversations, elevated our profile, and reaffirmed our commitment to delivering projects that blend vision with execution at the highest level.

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