When most people think of luxury housing, they likely picture sprawling homes set on large, landscaped grounds. But Laura McCarthy Real Estate, serving the St. Louis community since 1944, knows that to find the pinnacle of luxe living, sometimes you need to look up. The company’s more than 100 agents have expert knowledge of high-rise and condo properties along the central corridor that meet their clients’ needs for ‘the good life.’ “St. Louis luxury buyers want three things: the best in space, location and views,” agent Joan Schnoebelen says.

Schnoebelen and her real estate partner and daughter, Megan Schnoebelen Rowe, are handling Laura McCarthy’s listing at 150 Carondelet Plaza, No. 2801, a luxury penthouse at the Plaza in Clayton. A location like this offers numerous perks, Schnoebelen points out. “There’s a 24-hour front desk attendant, full-time valet and concierge services, a dog-walking area, and a terraced swimming pool,” she says. “There also are lovely landscaped gardens for walking and a gorgeous club room residents can use for private events.” As the only entire-floor unit in the building, the penthouse has its own enticing amenities, including three elevators; two are private and open into a custom, cherry-paneled vestibule featuring Breccia Pernice Rossa marble floors.

The most striking benefit of high-rise living, however, is undoubtedly the views, and No. 2801 is no exception. “The vista is truly exceptional,” Schnoebelen says. “It is breathtaking. You can see St. Louis at its finest.” The penthouse’s four 700-square-foot terraces offer a panoramic view of Clayton and downtown St. Louis. “The views truly distinguish it from any other property in St. Louis,” she notes. “The living room faces east and has a gorgeous view of the Arch.”

Such views make the room perfect for entertaining. “It is graciously divided into three spaces—a formal sitting room, music room and game room—making it perfect for small gatherings or a large event,” Schnoebelen says. It features antique Russian pine paneling, walnut herringbone floors and hand-carved clamshell display shelves. “Everything is custom and one of a kind,” she says. “The hand-carved wood paneling, moldings and bespoke fitted bookcases were crafted and installed by Hallidays of London using the finest natural timbers.”

Schnoebelen’s favorite space is the master suite. “It is a serene escape,” she explains. The room includes a large seating area with floor-to-ceiling, built-in bookshelves and opens onto a north-facing terrace. “It is the perfect place for a cup of coffee in the morning. It floats above Clayton with those amazing views,” she says. Schnoebelen says the penthouse has everything luxury buyers want: stylish spaces that offer good flow for both entertaining and everyday living.

Laura McCarthy Real Estate is a residential real estate Agency Serving St. Louis for more than 70 years. The company has more than 100 agents with expert knowledge of properties along the central corridor. Pictured on the cover: 150 Carondelet Plaza, No. 2801, in Clayton. For more information, call 314.725.5100 or visit lauramccarthy.com