Nautical Interior Design

There is a clear distinction between the currents among fans of the sailboat and among those who prefer the world of motor boatingUsually those who appreciate one category do not support the other but from a design point of view some characteristics unite both typologies.

The essential element to consider for a correct design of the interiors of boats, of any type, is represented by the particular context in which one operates. In fact, differently from the interior design of residences and buildings with various uses, in this case it is necessary to take into account the behavior of the sea. All the furnishings that will characterize the spaces of the boats must be optimal and safe in situations of continuous movement. For this reason, kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms must be equipped with fixed furniture and well anchored to the floor. Even the complements and accessories useful during the stay on the boat will be studied ad hoc so as not to fall and to remain functional over time.

As for style, in recent years there has been a move away from a purely nautical taste, in favor of interiors with a contemporary and more modern flavor that closely resemble those of environments located on dry land.

A short and useful differentiation

As already mentioned, boats are divided into two main categories: sailing boats and motor boats. The former convert wind energy into driving force, while the latter work thanks to the provision of an engine. However, even within the two macro categories it is possible to make some differentiations; the first characteristic that determines the type of boat is represented by the size. They range from small sailing boats, drifts, To semi-cabin intended for daytime navigation, up to large cabin cruisers able to accommodate large and comfortable interiors equipped with all the comforts to stay there day and night.

As far as motorboats are concerned, the same rule applies: there are the open intended for short journeys, the motorboats equipped with cabin, the sports boats designed for competitive purposes, the catamarans and yacht very generously sized. It is important to point out how each type of boat has been designed over time depending on the use that was intended to be made of it and how the exteriors fully reflect the interior spaces which, in addition to having to be aesthetically pleasing, must be functional and practical. 

To view a typical graphic representation of some yachts click here

The organization of the internal environment

Much like the design of residential environments, even on boats the distribution of furniture depends strictly on the space available. While sailboats have fairly limited internal areas, which vary depending on the shapes and characteristics of the lower deck, for yachts and catamarans the sizes and organizational possibilities change.

Despite this, it should be considered that, despite the current trend of recreating classic domestic environments on board through furnishings and accessories that are inspired by contemporary style, we are in a different context where safety is the basis of any choice. For this reason, the planning of interior spaces will be strictly conditioned by the typical movement of boats and each piece of furniture will have to guarantee personal safety even in situations of heeling and rough seas.

The entrance to the internal area of ​​the boat can be done in two ways: on the level of the outdoor space, in the case of yachts and catamarans on two or more levels, by going down a ladder in the case of sailing boats. The first functional area is represented by the “dinette”, the classic living area of ​​our homes, equipped with a central dining table and seats that follow the shape of the boat and are anchored to the structure to ensure stability during navigation. Since this is the area that is most lived in during the daytime, it is essential that there are appropriately sized windows and portholes, in order to filter as much natural light as possible from the outside.

Complete this environment with the kitchen, a space that must be functional and practical for the particular use that is made of it on the move. Furthermore, it is good to size and design the kitchen block according to the expected frequency of use: if it is used for a few days it can be a simple support, if instead it is used for longer crossings it will require all kinds of optional. Here the gas hob must ensure a high level of safety, through knobs that block rotation and pan locks, to avoid dangerous situations in the event of unexpected wave motion. In an adjacent position is the sink with drainer and anchored shelves that guarantee the safe positioning of dishes and food. As for the refrigerator, the most used is the cockpit model with opening towards the top; a gas oven may be present especially in the case of boats intended for longer journeys.

The living area is followed by the sleeping area with a hallway equipped with a wardrobe and storage, bathroom and cabins with bedrooms. The latter usually host a double bed with side rails which guarantee greater safety for sleeping hours during navigation. The number of cabins varies according to the size of the vessel: from single cabins to multiple cabins, up to double cabins with en-suite bathrooms. Sometimes, the bathrooms can be located near the ladder so as to make their use more practical even for those in the deck area. In all cases, the sanitary facilities have handles and accessories to hold on in the event of sudden movements of the sea. Inside the cabins, for beds and mattresses, the choice of natural materials is optimal as cotton, linen and silk fibres ensure greater comfort conditions from a hygienic-sanitary point of view.

Finally, every self-respecting vessel has an area dedicated to planning the route and the voyage. This is the so-called space dedicated to correspondence, where you can find drawing tools, maps and navigation manuals. To complete the whole thing, a desk and a seat for the person driving the boat. In addition, you can find the computerized systems essential for safety on board and the electrical panel of the boat.

Here is a moodboard that contains some useful advice for furnishing a boat in the best possible way 

The deck space 

As important as the interior design of boats is the semi-open spaces located in the deck area. The most modern solutions see these areas inside yachts and catamarans becoming exact copies of terraces and city penthouses. In fact, while on sailing boats, the space is often limited and the cockpit is used for steering, in motor boats this area is used as a relaxation area used for dinners and aperitifs. This difference derives from the functioning and structure of the different boats that require different technical spaces. For this reason, the planning of internal and external environments requires special attention and an in-depth study of the relationship between the hull and the superstructure.

The outdoor space thus becomes an added value capable of recreating a direct relationship with the surrounding marine environment. Current trends see this environment also being used for eating meals and to this end, it may be useful to include a stainless steel barbecue capable of ensuring durability over time. Each seat must be equipped with waterproof cushions and padding, while the support surface must guarantee resistance to the action of salt, sun and atmospheric agents. Container outdoor furniture is very useful, capable of holding objects and accessories when necessary. Practicality must be the basis of any choice and shape the furniture according to the needs of users. Safety in open areas is also essential for personal safety: handles, supports and balustrades must limit access to the sea and life jackets and life jackets must always be present.

Furthermore, an aspect increasingly taken into consideration by designers in the nautical sector is represented by the respect for the maritime environment. The choice must increasingly focus on management systems that guarantee energy savings and on natural and recycled materials.

In conclusion, it can be said that the design of the spaces inside and outside the boats must take into account some fundamental factors:

• the context of quiet and continuous movement that places user safety at the centre of planning;
• the particular microclimatic conditions that require greater attention in the choice of materials suitable for resisting marine action;
• the low heights and limited square footage that require lighting design aimed at increasing the light inside the rooms and passageways;
• environments different from residential ones on the mainland that require the same comfort and high functionality but are in constant movement.

For enthusiasts of the sector, there are numerous exhibitions and fairs that take place throughout the country and that can be visited to stay updated on the most innovative technologies. Famous examples are the Mostra d'Oltremare held in Naples, the Salone Nautico in Venice and the one in Genoa.  

Cover photo: Ferretti Group