O.R. Penthouse | United Architects | World Design Awards 2025

United Architects: Winner of World Design Awards 2025. The Penthouse project, with a total area of over 600 square meters, was completed in 2025 in Kyiv by United Architects studio. The project was led by the principal and chief architect Oleksii Shadyria, with chief designer Iryna Hrynyk and technical drawings by Anastasiia Shatkivska.

The design concept is inspired by a minimalist aesthetic infused with elements of contemporary classicism and functionalism, emphasizing natural materials and textures. Integrated furniture solutions and diverse surface finishes form a cohesive architectural language throughout the interior.

This multi-level penthouse features a flowing layout that seamlessly connects shared and private zones across four levels, culminating in an open rooftop terrace with a panoramic view of the city.

Technologically advanced, the penthouse incorporates the Thinknx smart home automation system, bio-adaptive Phillips lighting, and a fully automated climate control system with Mitsubishi ventilation, air conditioning, and heat recovery. Independent power supply is supported through solar panels. Nearly every function in the home is automated — from lighting and curtains to voice-controlled appliances and media systems. Cutting-edge multimedia technologies include a TCL home theater system and integrated audio throughout the interior and terrace.

For year-round outdoor comfort, the terrace includes a floor de-icing system for winter and misting systems for summer heat. A built-in bar and secluded lounge area with a fire feature and Treesse Zen pool offer breathtaking views of the capital. Security and comfort are further ensured with face-recognition access control. The gym features Dorma sliding glass partitions, while access to the terrace is provided by the state-of-the-art, oversized Reynaers HiFinity automated sliding system.

The project aimed to achieve outstanding design quality and the highest level of execution to meet the client’s demanding standards, who brought a professional design vision and pursuit of perfection to the collaboration.

Complexities included the integration and installation of large-format materials — glass, tile, stone, and mirrors — used as seamless cladding on expansive surfaces. A notable design element includes a 4.5 x 6 meter tempered-glass mirror mounted on the ceiling, which visually expands the space.

A key requirement was to minimize or eliminate visible seams at material junctions, ensuring smooth, organic transitions in textures. The penthouse was fully custom-designed, including built-in furniture, cladding panels, and décor. Custom solutions were developed for the kitchen, walk-in wardrobes, bedrooms, offices, bathrooms, the home cinema, and the terrace.

Natural materials and rich textures — including American walnut, various stones, metals, glass, and brass details — elevate the interior’s refined elegance. Notable focal points include large-format backlit onyx slabs with RGB and LED lighting in the entryway and office, as well as a luxurious marble slab on the terrace sourced from Antolini, Italy.

The project features top-tier materials and equipment: high-quality porcelain stoneware from Porcelanosa; sanitary ware from Porcelanosa Krion, Noken, Antonio Lupi, Hansgrohe, Tress, Laufen, Duscholux, Geberit, Gessi, and Cristina Rubinetterie.

Lighting is provided by Occhio, Verone, Bella Figure, Promemoria, Lacasa, Ltx, Flos, Arckoslight, Ghidini 1961, and Dot-spot, with electrical fittings by Basalte. Lighting is designed for multiple zones and scenarios, including circadian bio-adaptive lighting that adjusts to the human biological rhythm through automated control.

Soft furnishings in the living area are by Poliform, Minotti, Natuzzi, and Caccaro. Office furniture is by Rimadesio. Dining, kitchen, and terrace areas feature Arketipo and De Sede furniture. Interior doors by Lualdi with M&T hardware, glass partitions by Rimadesio, wardrobe ladder by MWE Edelstahlmanufaktur, and appliances from Miele, Asko, Samsung, and Dyson. The home gym is equipped with Technogym fitness machines.

The project’s successful realization involved numerous subcontractors and was professionally managed and coordinated by the United Architects team.

The fusion of natural materials, cutting-edge technology, and refined aesthetics makes this interior a unique example of harmony between form and function. Every detail — from furniture to lighting — contributes to an atmosphere of comfort, elegance, and sophistication, aligned with the highest standards of contemporary design.