
Case Study
Adding a Personal Touch to a Newly Built Luxury Condominium
After downsizing from her single-family home, this client stepped into her dream penthouse condominium in Arlington, eager to make it truly her own. While the space was nearly perfect, she envisioned a few key changes to better suit her lifestyle. She reached out to Gilday Renovations with two specific requests:
- Multi-Functional Den: This client wanted this space to be flexible enough to serve as both a cozy retreat and a guest room when needed.
- Living Room Focal Point: While the living room space was open and full of natural light, it lacked a defined focal point. This client dreamed of installing a fireplace to do just that.
Project Details
Type: Residential interior elements over $30K
Year the home was built: 2023
before the transformation


the project plan
The Den
The open den, nestled just off the dining area, held untapped potential. To transform it into a space that could seamlessly switch between a cozy retreat and a welcoming guest bedroom, designers at Gilday crafted a plan prioritizing function and style.
They began by exploring a range of designs, offering the client a choice between classic and contemporary aesthetics that complemented the building’s character. Ultimately, the client gravitated toward the clean lines and modern sophistication of a contemporary look, perfectly in harmony with the penthouse's architecture.
The Living Room
The living room, with its breathtaking wall of floor-to-ceiling glass, offered a stunning view and an abundance of natural light. Yet, despite its openness and charm, the space lacked a defining feature—a focal point that would make it feel truly unique. It needed something bold that would transform it into the heart of the home. It needed a fireplace.
The Gilday designers presented a variety of design options, ranging from timeless traditional styles to sleek, modern designs, each carefully tailored to the building’s architecture. After careful consideration, the client chose a contemporary approach aligned beautifully with the penthouse’s overall aesthetic.
the Den transformation
Seamless Elegance with "Disappearing" Pocket Doors
One specific challenge was clear: the client didn’t want traditional doors installed that would interrupt the den's open feel. The solution?
Pocket doors that elegantly “disappear” into the walls when open, preserving the space’s airy ambiance while offering privacy when needed.


Floor-to-Ceiling Design: Elevating Light, Space, and Versatility
The floor-to-ceiling doors introduced a seamless and sophisticated solution, transforming the space by enhancing its height and brightness.
This design choice created an open and airy ambiance, ensuring the room feels spacious and inviting regardless of its use.
the living room transformation
Contemporary Fireplace & Floating Cabinetry
Another centerpiece of this condo remodel is a striking contemporary fireplace seamlessly integrated into the only available wall. The “embers” of this faux fireplace cycle through a variety of colors that create a wonderfully playful ambiance in the room after dark.
A custom-fabricated blackened steel mantel, shaped into an elegant nine-foot ellipse, anchors the design with bold sophistication.
Complementing the unique fireplace are recessed, custom-built floating cabinets. These cabinets, with inset doors and curved interiors that flow into the doors, add both functionality and a sculptural element to the space.

Multi-Functional Mirror
A mirror cleverly concealing a television screen was installed above the mantel, seamlessly combining style and functionality. This innovative feature elevated the design, blending technology into the space without compromising its aesthetic.

Overcoming Obstacles
Logistical Challenges
The oversized steel mantel had to be hand-carried up multiple flights of stairs because it was too long to fit into the freight elevator.
structural adjustments
Before installing the pocket doors, exploratory holes were cut into the walls to assess the space, requiring the relocation of pipes and a fire alarm sensor. The positioning of the doors had to be carefully adjusted to accommodate a pilaster on one side and a window wall on the other, as the condo association prohibited any alterations to these structural elements.
condo association requirements
Working in this condo building required thorough, upfront documentation. We needed to provide detailed designs outlining all plumbing and electrical systems impacted by the construction, as well as a comprehensive plan for transporting materials into and out of the building.
The final result
The final result is a beautifully transformed penthouse tailored to the client’s unique style and needs. Thanks to the disappearing pocket doors and thoughtful design, the den became a versatile space that feels open yet provides privacy when needed. In the living room, a contemporary fireplace is a striking focal point, with a custom mantel and cabinetry adding sophistication and playful ember colors, bringing a touch of charm.
As the client shared, “The changes made this penthouse feel like home. The attention to detail and craftsmanship exceeded my expectations!”
This project exemplifies how expert craftsmanship and intentional design can elevate a luxury condominium into a truly personalized space.
Home renovation discovery session
Our home renovation discovery sessions are organized around you: your needs, style preferences, and desire to make the home you have the best it can be.
You can expect our staff to ask many questions, listen, and provide you with actionable information. We’ll help you prioritize, get a clear sense of the project scope, and help you gain a sense of your budget. Everything you need to know to take the next step in your home renovation.