Harvey Specter-Approved: Inside Toronto’s Luxe Penthouse by Reflect Designs

The Toronto-based Reflect Architecture firm has recently completed an innovative renovation for Noah “40” Shebib, the acclaimed Grammy-winning producer and frequent collaborator with the artist Drake. The redesigned space, known as 40 PH, occupies a notable penthouse previously featured as Harvey Specter’s residence on the popular TV show Suits. This redesign captures the essence of Shebib’s unique style and professional needs.

This renovation transcends the ordinary, transforming every aspect of the 2,700-square-foot penthouse. The project includes architecture, interior design, landscaping, and tailor-made furniture, all harmonized to create a unified aesthetic. Noteworthy elements such as the sculptural liquid tin kitchen island designed by Nicholas Schuybroek and custom pieces by Sabine Marcelis showcase the project’s focus on bespoke, detailed craftsmanship.

The residence is subtly infused with musical elements and cultural references throughout its design. The main living space is an open-concept area that cleverly integrates three zones: a kitchen, dual lounges, and a dining area, each defined by custom-designed ceiling features made of cork and aluminum, reminiscent of amplifiers and speakers. These features not only distinguish each area but also enhance the acoustic quality of the space—a vital factor for someone deeply involved in music production.

Technological integration is also key in this space. For example, the dining table, crafted by Sabine Marcelis out of glass and stone, includes CAT-6 cables, enabling Shebib to connect seamlessly with his music studio from the dining area. This fusion of technology and design ensures that the home is an active part of Shebib’s creative process.

In the kitchen, the centerpiece is a striking liquid tin island created by Schuybroek. Its design, reminiscent of a deconstructed ’80s boombox, not only ties back to Shebib’s musical heritage but also highlights modern craftsmanship, produced by the Belgian company Obumex. Nearby, a distinctive Bösendorfer grand piano, adorned with artwork by Takashi Murakami, serves as a testament to Shebib’s appreciation for collaborative art.

The design approach by Reflect Architecture to the penthouse is all-encompassing, optimizing the layout to enhance intimacy and tranquility within the space. A continuous granite base links the interior with the exterior while managing subtle level changes, providing the living areas with a cozy, recessed feel without the need for obtrusive barriers.

The choice of materials is intentionally limited to wood, concrete, natural stone, and brushed metal, focusing on texture, craftsmanship, and the interplay of light. This restrained material palette helps create a calm backdrop, allowing Shebib’s lifestyle and artistic endeavors to take center stage.

Additionally, the penthouse includes designated areas for work, creativity, and collaboration. Shebib’s personal studio is equipped with a versatile Vitsoe 606 shelving system by Dieter Rams and a vintage Braun Audio 310 record player, echoing his father’s hobby of stamp collecting and highlighting family heritage. An office space nearby, designed for use by Shebib’s team and collaborators, features a minimalist aluminum desk by Johan Viladrich and wire shelving by Muller van Severen, with personal memorabilia tastefully displayed.

The master suite continues the theme of refined minimalism. It features a bespoke floating bed with an integrated desk, designed by Reflect and made by local craftsperson Mary Ratcliffe, which appears to hover within the glass enclosure of the room. The space is further accented with a Ceniza chair by EWE Studio and a playful pink Slide lamp by Sabine Marcelis, adding artistic flair without overwhelming the serene atmosphere.

The ensuite bathroom is dominated by a blue savoy stone bathtub with dramatic veining, reminiscent of cracking glaciers, and a sun-inspired vanity mirror, maximizing the use of natural light flowing through the penthouse.

The terrace outside has been completely transformed into a serene oasis featuring a reflecting pond, a vibrant garden, Italian-style outdoor dining, and a swimming pool, all designed to provide peaceful moments and a connection with nature. These outdoor areas extend seamlessly from the indoors, blurring the boundaries between luxurious interior spaces and tranquil outdoor environments.

For enhanced comfort and sustainability, Reflect Architecture upgraded the penthouse with new high-performance glass windows and external shading devices to reduce thermal bridging and manage solar heat gain, all while maximizing the views and natural illumination of the space.