sanlorenzo Explorer 460's interiors

Kisetsu - 季節

COMPANY

UniGe & Sanlorenzo

ROLE

Interior Refitting Designer

TIMEFRAME

3 months

YEAR

2025

Project description

This project provided me with the opportunity to collaborate with Sanlorenzo Yachts on the interior redesign of the Sanlorenzo 460EXP.

After conducting a deep research, we identified the owner as Michele La Rosa: an Italian streamer and tour organizer who has been living in Japan for the past ten years. Michele’s unique background made him the ideal collaborator for exploring a new approach to yacht design, together, we developed a custom concept deeply inspired by Japanese aesthetics and philosophy. Subsequently, we arranged an in-depth interview with the owner to better understand his vision. This conversation revealed key sources of inspiration, particularly the symbolism and rhythms of the four seasons. It also clarified how the yacht would be used, as a space not only for living and working but also for sharing and celebrating the richness of diverse cultures.

Process

The interior design was primarily inspired by the work of Japanese artist Utagawa Hiroshige, whose evocative landscapes significantly influenced European art in the early 20th century. For this project, one artwork representing each of the four seasons was carefully selected. These pieces served as the foundation for translating composition, materiality, and color palette into a cohesive interior concept for the yacht.

This is how Kisetsu — meaning “seasons” in Japanese — came to life: a project that reimagines the yacht’s interiors through the use of natural materials, fluid spatial continuity, carefully balanced lighting, and refined artisanal details. Each area is thoughtfully designed to evoke a specific season, seamlessly blending Japanese aesthetics with nautical functionality, and creating a harmonious atmosphere throughout all around the yacht. Beyond its visual and sensory qualities, the layout is also tailored to meet the owner’s professional needs, including client hospitality, event hosting, live streaming, and podcast production.




Solution

The interiors of the yacht reflect the fundamental principles of Japanese culture and design, emphasizing a deep connection with nature. This is expressed through the thoughtful use of natural materials, the interplay of light and shadow, and the careful balance of spatial composition. Every element was chosen to evoke harmony, simplicity, and a sense of calm (core values in traditional Japanese aesthetics).

More than a yacht for leisure, the yacht was conceived primarily as a professional tool for the owner. His vision was to embark on a journey across Southeast Asia, using the yacht as a mobile platform for cultural storytelling. From live streaming local traditions, food, and artisanal crafts, to organizing events and hosting shows on board, the yacht needed to support a dynamic range of activities, both private and public.

Solution

The interiors of the yacht reflect the fundamental principles of Japanese culture and design, emphasizing a deep connection with nature. This is expressed through the thoughtful use of natural materials, the interplay of light and shadow, and the careful balance of spatial composition. Every element was chosen to evoke harmony, simplicity, and a sense of calm (core values in traditional Japanese aesthetics).

More than a yacht for leisure, the yacht was conceived primarily as a professional tool for the owner. His vision was to embark on a journey across Southeast Asia, using the yacht as a mobile platform for cultural storytelling. From live streaming local traditions, food, and artisanal crafts, to organizing events and hosting shows on board, the yacht needed to support a dynamic range of activities, both private and public.

Results

The Main Salon

This main area of the yacht is inspired by autumn, expressed through warm tones and two key focal points: the artwork positioned behind the dining table, and the strong visual connection to the exterior, enhanced by expansive panoramic windows. This space serves as the owner's primary daytime area, where he welcomes clients and guests in a refined and comfortable setting.

The Master Cabin

Representing winter, the master cabin, is divided into two distinct zones. The day area features a built-in chaise longue and is centered around the tokonoma — a traditional Japanese alcove designed for quiet contemplation and the display of curated objects.The night area includes a king-size bed, a beauty station, a hidden TV, and, of course, an en-suite master bathroom distinguished by the presence of a traditional Japanese bathtub.

The Upper Deck

On the upper deck, we’ve designed an artisanal event space, with displays showcasing sculptures, handcrafted objects, and traditional Japanese prints. This area draws inspiration from the vibrant colors and refined beauty of Japanese spring.

The Sun Deck

Last but not least, the sun deck is dedicated to showcooking and typically hosts evening events. The use of materials and colors here takes inspiration from the lively atmosphere and natural tones of the Japanese summer.

In conclusion, the concept encompasses the main deck, upper deck, and sundeck, each thoughtfully designed with a specific function in mind. Throughout the design process, we assigned a distinct seasonal identity and purpose to every area, creating a cohesive narrative that integrates spatial experience with cultural meaning.

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