Evolution of yacht design, Superyacht builders, Marine boat construction, Future hull marina architecture
The future of yacht design
9 September 2024
Author: Joanna Lewis
Yacht design is constantly evolving as yacht designers push the boundaries of traditional design and new technologies come to the fore.
The world’s most iconic yachts boast striking design features that set them apart from other vessels, from innovative naval architecture to design features that focus on enhancing a yacht’s green credentials.
Here we take a look at some of the most pioneering yacht design trends changing the yachting industry for the better.
Interior yacht design trends
Interior yacht design has changed significantly to factor in modern yachting lifestyles.
Yacht interiors now have a strong focus on flexible layouts that are more open-plan. Furthermore, there is a growing trend for onboard spaces that blur the boundaries between a yacht’s interior and exterior areas. Vast glass sliding doors that can be fully opened, retractable roofs, and fold-down balconies are designed to completely eliminate any boundary between a yacht’s interior and exterior.
Wellness is a big part of the yachting lifestyle, with private yachts now dedicating a significant portion of their real estate to spas, fitness suites, and yoga and meditation areas. Interior designers are also now bringing nature onboard, with hydroponic and vertical gardens that not only enhance wellbeing but also offer chefs access to an organic garden.
The latest interior yacht design trends are also harnessing exciting new materials such as sustainable textured wood, recycled glass, natural stone, and fine fabrics with a firm nod to organic forms that mimic nature.
Finally, advances in digital technology are transforming interiors, with vast tech windows or walls that offer virtual views and streaming services.
Exterior yacht design trends
Exterior yacht design has, arguably, seen the most significant shift in design trends from vessels with soft curved exteriors that mimic the organic shapes found in nature to avant-garde vessels that challenge conventional yacht design.
One key advancement in technology has been glass, which has led to a slew of eye-catching vessels with vast glass superstructures. Not only does the use of glass create head-turning vessels, but this material also floods the interior with light, while providing owners and their guests with breathtaking views of the ocean.
In addition, yacht exteriors are becoming more striking, with deck spaces being used in new ways. Yacht designers are now placing more emphasis on a yacht’s exterior with an increasing amount of real estate being designated to alfresco dining.
Vast beach clubs are now the norm on modern-day vessels, enhancing an owner’s connection to the water and direct access to the sea. It is common to see multiple exterior decks for relaxing and entertaining.
New advances in hull design are also helping to transform onboard comfort and the overall performance of luxury yachts. A hull typically amounts to around 70% of a yacht’s total structural design, making hull design a complex part of a yacht’s overall design.
Thanks to advances in hull designs, modern yachts now boast enhanced seakeeping and energy efficiencies.
There is no question that the world of yacht design is constantly evolving as designers seek to create ever more eye-catching vessels that meet the demands and lifestyle habits of today’s yachting enthusiasts
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