Part 2: Bigger Boats

By Eileen Mansfield — May 2002

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Bigger boats also allow for gyms, offices--even libraries. Espinosa says that the last three big boats he has worked on have boasted fitness centers. But such rooms can also be convertible. One room Rose designed on Lady Val appears to be a dedicated gym, but lower the four pullman berths, roll the foldable treadmills under the bottom bunks, stow the weight bench and weights below the entertainment center, and ta da...you have a stateroom. Better yet, one with a steam shower in the en suite head.

Offices are in high demand these days as well. Clients are spending more time away from the workplace and more time on their boats, but they still need to stay connected to their businesses. Designers are making sure such owners have onboard offices that are comfortable and well-equipped, including the best communications electronics.

More specifically, many clients rely on both wired and wireless Internet connections for themselves as well as for guests. They "are anticipating guests bringing their laptops with them and wanting to get connected to a network," says Johnson. Consequently, designers must plan for such things as comfortable work spaces, power outlets, data ports, and proper lighting.

Most designers agree about such must-have features on yachts these days, but when it comes to what's most fashionable in decor, they are not as unified. The majority agree that boat interiors reflect the individuality of the client. "Each owner has their own particular desires," says Starkey. But some designers feel there is a decor trend starting to emerge. Rose foresees a shift from traditional to contemporary. But not chilly contemporary. "Since 9/11 there is a coldness that is gone that contemporary used to hold," she says. "People are wanting a much warmer grade of contemporary. There might be mirrors, but now they will be surrounded by plants, books, and framed photos. There might even be a dog or cat bed over in the corner."

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