The Story Behind
Penthouse West: Olson Kundig Architectural Masterpiece Above West Hollywood
Crowning the prestigious 8899 Beverly building, Penthouse West represents the pinnacle of contemporary design in West Hollywood's Design District. This 7,303-square-foot residence showcases Olson Kundig's architectural mastery through soaring 14-foot motorized Vitrocsa glass walls that dissolve boundaries between interior and exterior living. With four bedrooms, a wraparound terrace offering panoramic city views, and a private four-car autostable, this penthouse delivers an unparalleled fusion of artistic vision and luxury living.
Penthouse West stands as the crowning achievement of 8899 Beverly, an architectural tour de force conceived by the renowned Seattle-based firm Olson Kundig. Known for their innovative approach to materiality and their signature kinetic elements, Olson Kundig has created a residence that embodies their philosophy of blending industrial precision with organic warmth.
The penthouse's defining feature lies in its revolutionary 14-foot floor-to-ceiling motorized Vitrocsa glass walls—a Swiss-engineered marvel that transforms the great room into a seamless extension of the 1,900-square-foot wraparound terrace. These disappearing boundaries create an ever-changing canvas where the Hollywood Hills and Los Angeles skyline become living artwork, shifting with light and weather throughout the day.
Inside, architectural columns punctuate the open floor plan, their structural presence adding rhythm and definition to the flowing spaces. The material palette speaks to refined sensibilities: rich hardwood floors flow throughout, while the gourmet kitchen showcases the marriage of function and artistry through Calacatta gold marble countertops paired with custom white oak cabinetry. Premium Gaggenau, Miele, and Subzero appliances transform culinary endeavors into precision performances.
The primary suite spans over 1,000 square feet, functioning as a private sanctuary with dual walk-in closets and luxurious dual bathrooms. Each of the three guest bedrooms features ensuite privacy with south-facing exposures that bathe the spaces in natural light. A separate media room and private office provide dedicated spaces for work and entertainment away from the main living areas.
Perhaps most remarkable is the private four-car autostable—a sophisticated garage that elevates vehicle storage to an art form. Behind bespoke enclosed doors, this climate-controlled space accommodates the most discerning collector's automobiles, while two additional valet spaces and private elevator access ensure seamless transitions between the garage and penthouse levels.
The residence's design philosophy extends beyond mere luxury to embrace the California indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Every detail, from the butler's kitchen with its discreet service entrance to the wraparound terrace's strategic positioning, has been conceived to enhance both intimate daily living and grand-scale entertaining. This is architecture as lifestyle catalyst, where form and function unite to create spaces that inspire and elevate the human experience.
The West Hollywood Design District represents one of Los Angeles' most dynamic and culturally significant neighborhoods, where creativity and commerce intersect in a vibrant tapestry of design showrooms, galleries, and architectural innovation. This area, centered along Beverly Boulevard and Melrose Avenue, has evolved into the epicenter of Southern California's design industry, attracting internationally renowned architects, interior designers, and creative professionals.
Historically, this district emerged from the mid-century modern movement that defined Los Angeles architecture, gradually transforming from industrial warehouses into sophisticated design destinations. Today, the neighborhood houses flagship showrooms for premier furniture and design brands, creating an environment where residents live surrounded by the latest in contemporary design and luxury goods. The Pacific Design Center, just minutes away, anchors this creative ecosystem as one of the largest design centers in the western United States.
The location's Walk Score of 92 reflects its exceptional urban convenience. Bristol Farms provides gourmet grocery options within walking distance, while the neighborhood's restaurant scene includes everything from intimate bistros to celebrity chef establishments. The proximity to Melrose Avenue's boutiques and galleries, combined with easy access to Beverly Hills' luxury shopping district, creates an unparalleled retail environment.
Cultural amenities abound in this sophisticated enclave. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art lies just south, while the historic Sunset Strip stretches to the north, offering legendary entertainment venues and nightlife. The neighborhood's central location provides quick access to Century City's business district, Hollywood's entertainment industry, and Beverly Hills' luxury services.
West Hollywood itself maintains a distinctive character as an independent city known for its progressive values, well-maintained public spaces, and commitment to urban planning excellence. The city's dedication to walkability and public amenities creates an environment where luxury living extends beyond private residences to encompass the entire community experience.
The Design District's appeal extends to its architecture, where contemporary buildings like 8899 Beverly stand alongside mid-century landmarks and cutting-edge developments. This architectural diversity reflects the neighborhood's evolution while maintaining its essential character as a place where design innovation flourishes.
For residents, daily life unfolds against a backdrop of creativity and sophistication. Morning walks might include browsing design showrooms, while evenings offer world-class dining and cultural events. The neighborhood attracts a community of design professionals, entertainment industry leaders, and international residents who appreciate both the area's creative energy and its central location within the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area.
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Curated Content • Presented by Michelle Montany