Last week I was invited to look round Artemest’s first fully furnished penthouse in the UK, brought to life by acclaimed interior designer Róisín Lafferty

The two storey residence on the 17th and 18th floor at Embassy Gardens, London SW11 offers sweeping views of the London skyline, taking in The Thames, Big Ben and the London Eye. Róisín Lafferty collaborated with Italian design platform Artemest to create interiors dressed exclusively with furniture, lighting and accessories by Italian artisans, embodying Artemest’s mission to celebrate heritage

To create a warm and welcoming space, Róisín drew inspiration from the shifting colours of the sky and the city’s ever-changing light. The palette flows from room to room with walls and ceilings in warm, earthy tones teamed with rich timbers, natural stone and soft bouclé.

The dining space is anchored by a monumental travertine marble table surrounded by sculptural upholstered chairs under a chandelier that refracts light across the room. In the living areas, rounded seating in neutral tones creates a cocooning atmosphere, layered with rugs, soft textures and accents of Murano glass, ceramics and lacquered iron. Carefully curated artworks and accessories add character, ensuring the interiors feel collected rather than staged.

Bedrooms extend the penthouse’s language of understated luxury. Muted tones, tactile fabrics, and bespoke Italian craftsmanship create serene retreats, while floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of London. Artisanal lighting and finely detailed finishes further heighten the sense of tranquillity and sophistication

From the dining room, it’s up a flight of stairs and you arrive at a roof top bar enclosed in a glass box that opens onto a private terrace. This outside space offers panoramic views of the Thames and, extending the design philosophy of the interiors, it is imagined as a peaceful al fresco retreat above the city

(Photo credit: Ben Anders)

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