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Three-story penthouse is all bookshelves and midcentury furniture

A designer retreat in the sky

It’s hard to decide what to be more in awe of in this São Paulo penthouse: the cavernous space itself, with dramatic city views and entire walls of shelves, or the owners’ fetching collection of furniture, art, and objects. Either way, the total effect is jaw-dropping.

Designed by noted local practice Studio MK27, the award-winning "apartment" spans three floors, the highest of which is the double-height library with wall-to-wall wooden shelves holding books, plants, and more. The same dark wood is employed throughout the home, in hallways, lounge areas, and intimate bedrooms, where warmer materials like carpet and linen set the tone.

Like its covetable collection of original midcentury furniture on display, which includes pieces by Hans Wegner, Franco Albini, and Gio Ponti, the home is sharp and cozy at the same time, dangerously cool without feeling like a villain’s lair. Let’s just try not to think about dust.


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