CityView Magazine

painted walls, Romanesque architecture and an elegant winding staircase leading to the rooſtop. The main living area is vast: high-ceilings, lush furnishings, lay- ers of texture and color, plenty of space for Menno's baby grand (he houses his piano and other stringed instruments in another downtown property they own – the Capital Room, several blocks from their home) and a wall of windows over- looking Fayetteville's south side. The Pennink's kitchen boasts all the amenities you'd expect to find in a mil- lion dollar home: custom cabinetry, leathered granite counters (an Italian process that adds texture to the gran- ite's surface), a large gas stove and even a piece of imported Australian granite covering the middle island and fram- ing the adjoining sunroom's fireplace. "Designing the kitchen to maximize the space was a bit challenging," said Su- zanne, who was used to having a larger cooking area. Working within the confines of a concrete and steel structure presented multiple design challenges for the Pen- ninks. "This isn't like building a regular house," explained Suzanne. "I couldn't bump out a section if I needed more space. I had to work with the rectangle given me." This forced the Penninks to get creative. For example, in their old home, Menno's office occupied it's own corner of the house, but in the pent- house, it's located off the master-suite hallway. Climbing up the wood and wrought- iron staircase leads you to a guest suite with a second kitchen, a game room and an exercise space that also houses their grandson's favorite 'swing' (a hanging exercise bar). However, it's the multiple porches, both shared and private, which truly set theirs and the other penthouses apart from the rest of the units. Neigh- bors oſten meet on the rooſtop for din- ner or drinks and to enjoy the views of downtown's now-thriving streets. Homeowners of the townhouses and condominiums come from all ages and walks of life: newlyweds to retired cou- ples, active duty military, engineers, res- taurant chain owners, doctors and real estate agents. Residents meet regularly for cookouts and social events. Earlier Opposite: Custom-painted walls add individuality and personality to even small spaces in the loft. CityViewNC.com | 25

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