Thierry Gaugain, part of the creative team with Philippe Starck behind modern marvels such as Motor Yacht A and Sailing Yacht A has revealed his first solo luxury yacht concept known simply as PROJECT L.
Superyacht concept PROJECT L
The French designer has created a futuristic work of art that flows seamlessly as if it was a single piece. The on board lifestyle is designed as much for business as for pleasure, as Gaugain sees the two becoming more intertwined in the future.
The svelte superyacht features a paint that changes colour as observes see her from different angles at different times of the day. A beach club will have large fold-down platform to increase guest contact with the sea, and one panel becomes a saltwater pool while up on the main deck forward there will be a smaller freshwater pool at the centre of a social area. Stairs have been eliminated as much as possible inside and out, placing everyone on the same level. A hood-like structure maintains the smooth outer appearance by concealing the communications mast and navigational equipment as much as possible, only to be deployed when necessary.
Thierry Gaugain superyacht concept PROJECT L
Light is an important element in the design, entering through the myriad windows placed at innovative angles in dimensions ‘never seen on yachts before’ and much like the exterior will change from muted blue hues in the morning sunlight to fiery orange tones at sundown. Magnifying effects on the one-way glass will further enhance the views of the surroundings.
The Owner’s suite has a private lounge in the bow which makes use of this technology for exceptional views while maintaining the utmost privacy. Luxury yacht PROJECT L is capable of accommodating up to 40 crew and 12 guests over six en-suite cabins. It is possible to further extend the living quarters, however Gaugain is determined to maintain the cathedral-like volumes that make PROJECT L so unique as an experience as well as a mode of transport on the water.
“L merges with the elements,” says Gaugain. “Her striking naval architecture mixes sailing yachts with motor yachts. She will never push water, merely glide through with subtle movements and hammer-like stability under her elegant cloak. With low drag and seamless lines, she will achieve Best in Class low levels of noise and vibration.”
Diesel-electric propulsion systems with azimuth thrusters placed forward and aft allow the Owner to play with the layout and the space this positioning provides. Similar to a sailboat keel, PROJECT L has a retractable ballast to adjust roll time and stability according to sea conditions. The smooth appearance of the exterior will act both as a security measure and as a passive defence against turbulent weather conditions.
Thierry Gaugain will continue to bring his unique vision to luxury yacht projects with Philippe Starck in the near future.
