Penthouse in the Clouds Nain Residence by KNKO Architecture Studio — 240 m² Apartment in Moscow

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Modern minimalist living room with white furniture, wooden accents and large windows with beige curtains. Open plan with clean lines, contemporary design and natural lighting

Modern Penthouse Above Moscow

Situated at the top of the historic Clouds Nain Residence in central Moscow, this 240 m² penthouse by KNKO Architecture Studio combines modern restraint with warm intimacy. The two-level apartment occupies the highest floors of this elite residential complex, which itself embodies the principle of adaptive reuse — previously a printing house from the early 20th century, it was transformed into one of Moscow's most prestigious addresses.

The brief was clear: create a home filled with light, tranquility and functionality while avoiding classic motifs or overly bold accents. Designed for a young creative couple active in the digital sphere, this penthouse achieves that balance with quiet sophistication and understated luxury.

Two-Level Core as Social Hub

A defining feature of the project is the two-level volume, which unifies the kitchen, dining area and living room into a single open space. Illuminated by natural light, this high central zone visually connects both levels of the apartment and serves as the social anchor of the home.

On the lower level, two private offices with bathrooms are also provided. Flexible use of one office allows easy conversion into a child's room. Additional spaces include a wardrobe and separate laundry room.

On the upper, mansard level, the master bedroom spans the building's roof with a double wardrobe and spacious bathroom. The windows offer cinematic views of St. Basil's Cathedral, strengthening the apartment’s connection to Moscow’s urban ensemble.

Minimalist Palette, Textural Depth

The material strategy emphasizes texture over ornamentation. Warm wooden flooring and soft matte wall finishes create a calming backdrop, while the palette of white and beige ensures spatial clarity. Tactile richness is expressed through textiles, plaster finishes and delicate details.

One of the most notable features is the monolithic staircase. Originally a raw concrete structure, it later became a sculptural central element. Now painted in durable white with wooden steps, it functions both as a means of circulation and an architectural work of art.

Individual details include built-in pet zones for the couple's dog and cat, integrated door systems that disappear into walls, and custom lighting fixtures.

Furniture, Technology & Comfort

The penthouse is furnished with an elegant selection of pieces from Minotti, Flexform, Potocco and Eichholtz, ensuring timeless comfort and enduring design. A custom kitchen countertop with a seamless faucet demonstrates the precision of craftsmanship in this project.

Technology is seamlessly integrated: a smart home system controls climate, lighting and security without compromising aesthetics.

Creative Collaboration Without Compromise

Perhaps the most striking achievement of this penthouse in Clouds Nain Residence is the level of trust between architect and client. Every element was executed exactly as envisioned, without compromises or concessions — a rarity in modern residential projects. The result is a home that feels both eternal and deeply personal, balancing expressive minimalism with functional clarity.

Photography copyright © Yegor Kodyakov
Penthouse in the Clouds Nain Residence by KNKO Architecture Studio — 240 m² Apartment in Moscow