Due to an increasing demand for larger beach clubs, more natural light and a greater connection with the marine environment, Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture began a project last year to investigate the use of larger glass areas. Designs with large open spaces and windows from deck to ceiling are appealing and help work out the wishes listed earlier, but can cause problems for the strength of the vessel.  They have contracted Lloyd’s Register and a leading yacht glazing specialist to provide their relevant input.

Glass Design for Superyachts by Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture

“Our ultimate goal is to use more glass on the superstructure and in the hull, to blur the boundary between interior and exterior spaces. We understand that the use of such large expanses of glass will have repercussions on air conditioning due to solar radiation, but believe that we can find suitable solutions. Our research has shown that load bearing glass is not advisable on a yacht due to the dynamic behaviour in seaway, so our focus has shifted to using glass with an alternative construction method.”

This has evolved into a concept using Azure’s glass research project to be fully transformed into full glass walls on all superstructure decks. This concept results in great panoramic views, particularly when accompanied with glass bulwarks, without compromising the structural integrity of the vessel.

In addition to using glass on the superstructure, the project is also focusing on using glass in the aft areas. Tender garages, for instance, have the potential to be fully transformed into beach clubs with swimming platforms. Azure is developing a number of exciting solutions for beach club ideas for a number of clients. Azure plans to integrate the results of their research project into their own designs, but will also offer their specific knowledge in this field to partner yacht designers and yacht builders.

Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture

Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture is an independent Dutch design office dedicated to provide design, engineering, supervision and support for new build or the refitting of luxury motor yachts of 30M and above. Azure was founded in 2003 and is independently involved in the yacht building industry. Thier office employs over 20 persons.

Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture staff has its background in the Dutch and international yacht building industries. They offer a wide range of services for clients all over the world and have established long term relationships with other key players in the yacht building industry. Within Azure, projects are handled in an efficient way by small dedicated project teams. They are open minded, creative and dedicated.