"The outer lines show geometric elements and a hexagonal centre section on which containers can be placed," says Bernd Weel, explaining the principle behind the 2300-tonne vehicle, "our inspiration comes from SUVs". "Project Mission" was developed for expeditions and can transport a variety of toys. Bernd Weel's design demonstrates his enormous versatility; for example, his studio in Egmond aan Zee in the Netherlands designed the 33 metre long "Lady Fleur" designed by Holterman, a rather classic-looking superyacht, or the sporty Weekender Dutch Built 50 from Stratos. To contrast the jagged and sharp-edged outer lines of "Project Mission" with a strong pole, the shipyard from Harlingen chose Carla Guilhem for the interior.
A minimalist interior that is also warm
Her studio, based in Miami, Florida, stands for a rather feminine style and was now faced with the task of filling the rather unique distribution of the 1800 gross tonnes of space with life, creating a distinctive ambience for twelve guests and around six scientists - an ideal setting to admire the most beautiful landscapes in the world, according to the motto: "What you see through the windows attracts the attention of the guests." Guilhem planned a futuristic, minimalist design that would simultaneously appear warm and, in view of the exterior lines, create a balance between the two worlds. "While the exterior of the yacht represents the search for the unknown, I designed the interior to explore itself," says Guilhem about her work on the Explorer.
Huge glass doors connect the rooms
Lots of white and large, smooth surfaces do indeed create a sense of calm, although the designer does take up Bernd Heel's geometric gimmicks in the furniture and wall openings. She uses skilful lighting and free-floating ceiling elements to divide huge rooms such as the high-ceilinged salon into different zones, placing the dining area on a different island to the bar or lounge, for example. She follows a similar principle in the master suite, where the round bed is enthroned in the centre of the room. Floor-to-ceiling glass fronts bring daylight and the spectacular surroundings inside, while transparent doors allow the interior and exterior spaces to flow into one another. "I really think she's done a great job," summarises Bernd Weel, "the interior is a place you want to retreat to after a day of discovering and exploring the furthest reaches of the world."
- Further information: iconyachts.eu
Uske Berndt
Editor News & Panorama
