Tommaso Spadolini designed a 650 sqm three-storey villa, nestled among the hills overlooking Lake Lugano. The interior and exterior areas were inspired by the world of yachting. The villa was made for the entrepreneur and influencer Serena Spinucci, co-founder of the Milaner brand which markets a careful selection of clothing and accessories produced by the best Italian artisans. Her son Giovanni dealt with the architectural work.
“I met Serena and her husband in 2011, because they were friends of an Italian owner for whom I was following the refit of a yacht,” says Tommaso Spadolini. “It was on that occasion that they asked me to refit their yacht, Virginian, which was followed by the refitting of two more of the family's boats. After so much experience together, Serena kindly asked for my help in designing the interiors and arranging the outdoor areas of her new villa in Lugano.”
The leitmotif of the project was immediately clear, both in the selection of colors and materials. Developed over three floors, the villa integrates perfectly into the hilly landscape overlooking Lugano and its lake.
However, the original building had small windows. This was the first challenge: to connect the inside of the house with the outside as if they were one, so that the garden and the landscape would become an integral part of the villa. The large glass walls of the living room merge into a single environment with the surrounding garden.
In the garden, Tommaso Spadolini and Serena Spinucci studied a layout that was at the same time elegant, comfortable, practical and that could emphasize the “green furniture”, the work of the Hortensia garden design company.
“Together we have studied all the external paths that connect the swimming pool, the changing room and the relaxation area with television," explains Tommaso Spadolini. “By using the inclination of the hill slope, we placed a gazebo on the roof of the villa, which is at the same level as the swimming pool: when you sit down at the table to have lunch, it really feels like being on the flying bridge of a yacht!”
Oak wood is the characterizing material of the interiors, prepared in different ways by the master craftsmen of the Del Curto carpentry in Chiavenna, where mock-ups of all the rooms were also created before they were set up in the villa.
The interior furnishings are a skilful mix of modern and traditional styles, ensured by the presence of family furniture heirlooms, such as the large tapestry that dominates the wall of the dining room, flanked by two ancient rudders, which blend perfectly with the Mars round table, the Audrey chairs and the modern Golden Cloud chandelier designed by Paolo Castelli.
In the living room, Promemoria large sofas and central coffee table create a fascinating contrast with the large antique carpet. The master sleeping area is on the same floor: the bedroom, which overlooks the lake directly through a large window, opens onto a terrace that is perfect for breakfast or relaxing moments.
The sleeping area for children and guests is located on the lower floor, next to a spacious and well-equipped fitness area.
Serena Spinucci, photo courtesy of Norman Rinaldi
“Tommaso studied every detail with the expert eye of a naval architect and, thanks to his many years of experience, he understood our requests and needs perfectly,” says Serena Spinucci. “He really managed to create a welcoming environment that often makes us feel we are on board our own yacht.”
Credits: Giovanni Malgarini
The 91m Lady Lara listed for sale for the first time by Max Bulley of Y.CO. She was built by Lurssen in 2015, features interior and exterior that was made by Reymond Langton Design. Lady Lara stands out among yachts of her size with an extended range, a convenient touch-and-go helipad, and impeccable maintenance and upgrades since her launch, making her ready for immediate cruising.This vessel offers an array of amenities, catering to diverse guest preferences. Guests can relax in the dedicated spa area, work out in the gym, socialize by the teppanyaki grill on the sun deck, or enjoy a cozy night in the onboard cinema. For those seeking aquatic refreshment, there are two large pools. The main deck pool is perfect for daytime cooling and transforms into a dancefloor at night, accompanied by a bespoke music system.The sun deck boasts another pool with a swim-up bar, a teppanyaki grill, and ample space for lounging and sunbathing. An expansive beach club, complete with a sauna and steam room, offers on-the-water relaxation.On the bridge deck, a wellness area focuses on pampering, with a beauty salon, spa-treatment room, massage room, gym, and hammam.The owner’s deck features seamless indoor/outdoor dining with a glass enclosure that becomes part of the interior space. A large private terrace is accessible from the owner's suite, featuring a hot tub and a touch-and-go helipad for extended exploration.The interior is bright and spacious, filled with natural light from large windows. Multiple areas accommodate socializing or private relaxation, ensuring options for everyone. The owner’s deck includes a lounge with a bar, in addition to the owner’s private apartment. On the main deck, a large salon with a grand piano, a formal dining table, and a spacious lounge area await.A spacious glass elevator connects the guest decks up to the bridge deck for ease of access. Six remaining cabins on the main deck, two with fold-out balconies, offer ensuite accommodations. An additional ensuite guest cabin is located on the lower deck.Lady Lara is in turnkey condition, having undergone a €15 million refit in 2022/23, including a full paint job, IT and security system upgrades, new carpets, interior updates, tender refit, maintenance, tank coating replacement, and navigation system upgrade. This comprehensive investment ensures Lady Lara is ready for immediate voyages, setting her apart from yachts of similar size.The yacht’s asking price is EUR230,000,000 and will be displayed at the Monaco Yacht Show.Lürssen is a German shipyard with headquarters in Bremen-Vegesack and shipbuilding facilities in Lemwerder, Berne and Bremen-Aumund. Founded in 1875, Lürssen is one of the world's leading builders of custom luxury superyachts and has launched many of the largest yachts in the global fleet.Credits: Yacht Harbour archive; Y.CO
September 22, 2023
Dynamiq has unveiled the Global 550, a contemporary explorer yacht that seamlessly blends adventure with refined luxury. The Global 550's exterior design is credited to Monaco-based studio Dobroserdov Design, while Vripack Design, Dynamiq's long-term partner contributed to the design as well.It sets a new benchmark for efficiency, featuring a robust yet lightweight all-aluminum hull powered by two highly efficient 625 kW Volvo Penta heavy-duty engines. This powerhouse allows for an extended transatlantic range, surpassing 5,000 nautical miles on a single tank, making her a true explorer with remarkable autonomy. The yacht boasts immense freshwater tanks totaling 21,000 liters and ample storage spaces throughout.With four stabilizer fins, double the industry norm, and a Hull Vane, it offers exceptional pitch and roll minimization, ensuring a smooth cruising experience in all sea conditions. Furthermore, the yacht prioritizes environmental sustainability with smaller IMO Tier III engines, a battery system, and advanced exhaust gas filtration and water treatment solutions.One standout feature is the focus on nature observation, featuring panoramic lounges on each deck, including a crow's nest, underwater drones, and a telescope. The yacht also boasts a fully certified helipad, a lavish spa area with hammam and sauna, and a spacious owner's office that doubles as an observation lounge, all within the 500 GT limit.Notably, this project introduces Zrobim architects, renowned for their residential designs, to the world of superyacht interiors. They have adopted the concept of "quiet luxury," reflecting the shift towards eco-conscious and sustainable living. The interior design embraces "natural minimalism," incorporating elements like American oak, wenge, and dark Shimo ash to create a warm, tactile, and inviting atmosphere, especially important for long journeys in cold waters.The interior design draws inspiration from glaciers and remote mountain ranges, evident in details like illuminated Golden Queen onyx wash basins that resemble submerged glaciers. Various textured stones, including Arabescato Orobico Grigio and Spider green marbles, enhance the aesthetic.The interior's individuality is defined by art objects crafted from aged wood and textured wooden panels, serving both aesthetic and zoning functions. The full-height windows and expansive outdoor terraces seamlessly blend the interior and exterior, creating a modern and technologically advanced vessel for sea travel.Construction time for the Global 550 is 30 months from contract signing, and it's listed at EUR27,900,000, a price valid until the end of 2023. The world premiere of this project will take place at Dynamiq's stand during the upcoming Monaco Yacht Show.Dynamiq was founded in 2014 by experienced yacht broker and designer Sergei Dobroserdov. Dynamiq is the first company in the superyacht industry to introduce an online configurator, allowing the yacht to be easily and transparently customized down to the last detail. Dynamiq unveiled its first launch, 39m Spring (ex-Jetsetter), at the 2016 Monaco Yacht Show to wide acclaim. The following project, the GTT 115 M/Y Jaaber, was developed in conjunction with the renowned Studio F.A. Porsche design firm and successfully unveiled at the 2017 MYS. The latest addition to the Dynamiq fleet is the GTM 90 Beach Club and new Global series of long-range explorer yachts.Credits: Dynamiq
September 22, 2023
The 45m Gran Turismo is the latest project by ISA Yachts made for a client, who was introduced by Peter Redford and Eugenio Cannarsa of Fraser Yachts Australia. The naval engineering of UV II was handled by Palumbo Superyachts; Enrico Gobbi – Team for Design designed the exterior lines, and Luca Dini Design & Architecture penned the interior design.The interior spaces are defined by expansive windows on every deck and a harmonious color palette featuring gold, sand, and turquoise hues. Natural oak floors with an irregular pattern impart an airy feel to each area. Light oak wood slats set against bands of black lacquered wood embellish the walls and ceilings, adding richness to the interiors while maintaining a harmonious balance.Below deck, four VIP cabins await, including two with convertible twin beds and two with double beds, each with a private bathroom. The beach club at the stern is lavishly equipped with chaise lounges, armchairs, and a bathroom. Forward lies the crew area, accommodating up to eight individuals in four cabins, each with a private bathroom, along with a comfortable dining area and an adjacent laundry.The capacious full-beam owner's cabin is positioned at the forward end of the main deck. It features an entrance hall with a sofa and TV, a bathroom with double sinks, and a walk-in wardrobe. Notably, this area boasts direct access to the forward outdoor lounge via a private staircase.The UV II’s main saloon showcases a generously sized L-shaped sofa paired with two armchairs featuring golden aluminum structures and a coffee table. Two backlit metal sides adorned with a geometric motif lend a pop touch to the room. The expansive external cockpit on the main deck offers semicircular structural sofas with side tables, creating a youthful and vibrant ambiance in shades of gray complemented by emerald and acid green. The large swimming pool is adorned with silver-colored mosaic tiles.Moving to the forward upper deck, you'll find the helm station and the Captain's cabin. Amidships, a circular dining area with 180°-opening circular windows extends to the cockpit. The latter is furnished with structural sofas, armchairs, two coffee tables, and several poufs.The fly deck serves as a secondary, more casual dining area, complete with a bar, a round table extendable to seat up to 10 people, and a sundeck.Constructed with a steel hull and aluminum superstructure, the UV II is powered by 2 CAT C32 ACERT engines, each delivering 1300 hp for a top speed of 15.4 knots and a cruising speed of 14 knots. A 5-meter tender is stored in the starboard garage on the lower deck, which opens laterally. At the bow, there's a rescue boat, and in the hangar, two jet skis are easily launched with the hydraulic crane.ISA Yachts is part of Palumbo Superyachts network, which also includes: Columbus Yachts, Mondomarine and Extra Yachts. Currently in build are two 80-meter yachts which will serve as the new flagships models for ISA Yachts.Credits: ISA Yachts
September 22, 2023
Benetti presents the world premiere of two models of B.Now 50M, the family of steel mega yachts whose innovative and versatile DNA has been engineered for long cruises with an at-home feel: FantaSea and Alunya, the latter fitted with the revolutionary Oasis Deck® at the Monaco Yacht Show, from September 27 to 30, 2023. FantaseaM/Y Fantasea (B.Now 50m) beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its expansive 36 sq.m beach club, a main deck pool at the stern, and a forward sun deck hot tub. A notable addition, unlike its predecessors, is a luxurious steam room in the beach area for ultimate relaxation. All outdoor furnishings are custom-made to the owner's exact preferences, and the yacht's sizable glass doors create a seamless indoor-outdoor ambiance. Inside, the modern interiors, curated by Benetti's Interior Style Department, boast high-quality ceramic finishes. AlunyaAnother attention-grabber from Benetti at the Monaco Show is Alunya. This 50-meter yacht is the second in the B.Now family to showcase the Oasis Deck™, a groundbreaking solution that reimagines the conventional stern swim platform. It features hydraulically operated terraces that extend across the entire width of the deck, creating an expansive 110 sq. m beach club. The Oasis Deck™ provides an uninterrupted 270° view aft and includes a glass-walled infinity pool and multiple social areas.Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. They design, build and sell composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. Their fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom, to meet all the needs of the market, and they belong to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.Credits: Benetti
September 21, 2023
As the shipyard prepares for its 70th birthday, unit #3 of the Otam 70HT made its international debut at the 2023 Cannes Yachting Festival. The yacht was designed by Giuseppe Bagnardi of BG Design Firm with hull lines by Umberto Tagliavini Marine Design. On special request of the owner, Otam was able to further improve fuel efficiency at speeds in excess of 40 knots, thanks also to the lightweight yet rigid construction in Aramat, Kevlar and carbon fiber.Although the yacht shares some characteristics with its series counterparts, such as the absence of a tender garage and side-access to the aft cockpit, there are notable distinctions. The owner prioritized a spacious rigid sliding rooftop to maximize natural ventilation when at anchor or in motion. Furthermore, marble countertops were crafted from a single block of stone to maintain consistent veining throughout the yacht.The lower deck features three cabins, a galley, and crew quarters with separate access from the foredeck. On the main deck, a dinette and a secondary galley are situated.“Like every Otam, the Otam 70 HT is designed to exceed the expectations of our demanding owners,” says Matteo Belardinelli, Otam’s sales & communication manager. “Without exception they are looking for something unique and exclusive and that means we’re always pushing our own boundaries. This latest delivery is yet another example of our mission to build extraordinary, high-performance yachts that are tailored to every client’s personal requirements.”The shipyard’ history started in 1954 in Liguria. Its professionalism is what made it stand out, very quickly becoming the first authorized Riva yacht Service Center for the Med Sea. In the 80’s Otam fit around 25 yachts for an American builder before starting his own production of Otam 45’ and 55’, earning significant attention. Today Otam has produced around 90 yachts, becoming an Italian specialist, and, together with its custom range, offers a limitless choice between 45’ and 130’.Credits: сourtesy Alberto Cocchi & Alessandro Guerrieri/Otam
September 21, 2023