Today, it’s not uncommon to hear architects and yacht owners say: “Let’s change everything — that’s the best way.” But behind this seemingly simple approach often lie higher costs, longer downtime, and unnecessary environmental impact. What if there’s a better way?
Crafting Luxury with Purpose
I found inspiration for this topic in a statement by James Roy of Lateral Naval Architects, published in Superyacht Report No. 209: “We all have a responsibility to design, engineer, build, and operate in a smarter way, using fewer resources more efficiently. Sustainability does not mean doing or delivering less. The goal is to have the same functionality, luxury, and performance – or more – using less. That’s the real challenge ahead of us.“
This philosophy perfectly reflects what we promote through our Refined Interior Renovation approach. Our goal is to achieve the same, or even better, results by applying a thoughtful and strategic approach to renovating pre-owned yachts or those with worn interiors, even when the vessel’s purpose is changing.
We always begin with one simple but essential question: “Do we really need to change everything to achieve the desired result?” The truth is, in most cases, we don’t.
Preservation Over Replacement
One example: we encountered beautifully crafted wood paneling on a 50-meter motor yacht that, thanks to careful maintenance, still looked magnificent after more than 30 years. Instead of replacing it, we proposed preserving and enhancing it, and today, it remains one of the most striking features of the refreshed interior.
Examples From Practice
For many interior designers, it’s easier to start from scratch. But true skill lies in recognizing and preserving the value that already exists.
When we look at contemporary design and architecture education, we notice that most projects focus on creating something entirely new, often without any real-world limitations. In Salt & Water studio, we believe in a different approach: careful planning that requires more time and attention but ultimately leads to much richer results.
True luxury is not about erasing the past — it’s about enhancing it, elevating it beyond recognition while honoring its original essence.
The Refined Interior Renovation Approach
This thinking inspired us to develop the concept of Refined Interior Renovation – a smart way to revitalize yacht interiors by respecting existing value and maximizing resources. We work with carefully selected craftsmen and trusted contractors to create impactful, visible changes quickly and efficiently.
For example, on one project, we created an elegant bar as a new centerpiece of the interior without the need for major construction work, adding practical features like a wine fridge and additional storage. In another project, by reupholstering surfaces, updating the lighting, textiles, and select furniture pieces, we transformed the yacht’s atmosphere into an authentic reflection of the owner’s personal style.
Refined Interior Renovation is, at its heart, a form of upcycling — enhancing what exists without compromising on quality or luxury. Refitting an existing yacht is inherently more sustainable than building a new one, as it reduces the demand for raw materials, energy, and transportation, significantly lowering the environmental footprint.
Through our projects, we demonstrate how careful planning, timely action, and precisely executed strategic interventions can completely transform a space, without the need for major invasive work. Every choice of material, every crafted detail, has a purpose and contributes to the overall result.
The process in Salt & Water studio always begins with a detailed analysis of the current state of the yacht. We guide our clients through each step, from initial sketches to selecting materials, colors, and finishes.
The guiding question throughout is not “what can we replace?“ but “what is worth preserving and enhancing?“
This is how we create interiors that not only maintain their original spirit but elevate it to a new level of functionality and beauty.
Craftsmanship at the Core
Our team of craftsmen, with decades of experience and a passion for precision, is an essential part of every project. Many of them are true artists, rare masters of their craft, difficult to find and even harder to keep. It is thanks to their dedication that our interiors radiate authentic luxury and a special kind of warmth.
I believe the future of yacht interior design lies in redefining luxury – luxury that respects what already exists, transforms it creatively, and maximizes the hidden potential within every element of a space.
That’s why I invite you to reflect and join the conversation:
- How do you see the relationship between preservation and luxury in yacht design?
- Have you encountered projects where partial preservation created greater value than complete replacement?
It’s time to redefine luxury — not as consumption, but as wisdom, respect, and craftsmanship.
Contact us to explore how a thoughtful renovation can breathe new life into your yacht — without starting from scratch.
Let’s redefine luxury together — sustainably.
