An introduction a year ago has landed a prominent American home designer his first yacht project. Malibu-based Scott Gillen, the founder of the residential design and development company Unvarnished, is responsible for the interior design of a 160-foot (49-meter) megayacht at Rossinavi.
Justin Blue, the CEO of the brokerage firm Yachtblue, brought the duo together. Already familiar with Gillen’s work, he believed the designer could bring his different approach to yachting. A former stunt driver, Gillen turned success with his personal home renovation a few years ago into the above-mentioned Unvarnished. He’s earned a reputation for a warm, minimalist aesthetic. To date, he has designed, built, and sold more than two dozen homes in Malibu.
We reached out to Rossinavi for comment, but it did not respond by press time. Regardless, Federico Rossi, the CEO, issued commentary for a press release from Gillen’s studio. “From Rossinavi’s experience for high-performance boats, a new challenge opens up in the full custom category,” he says. “An extremely lightweight superyacht with a super-sporty attitude, that can reach significant speeds, above 30 knots, in which technology blends with luxury.”
Although exterior renderings aren’t available, the megayacht features styling by Fulvio Di Simoni. Gillen says he’s striving for “a look and vibe that is cohesive all the way through” the 10,000 square feet 929 square meters) of interior space. As much as it complements the high-performance profile, though, the open-plan design (above) will feel like the owners’ land-based home. Additionally, “I’m creating one of the most unconventional designs you’ve ever seen in a yacht of this caliber,” Gillen declares. “I want to create a true sense of sanctuary for this home at sea.”
Expect, therefore, this Rossinavi megayacht to make good use of teak, oak, and walnut woods, along with white and sandy tones. Polished stainless steel comes into play, too. Further noteworthy, Gillen says he’s re-imagining Art Deco design for everything from the guest staterooms to the master and the saloon to the beach club.
We may have to wait until the yacht’s completion in three years to learn more. In the meantime, consider what Forbes has to say about the designer: “Scott Gillen is many things. Builder. Artist. Designer. Perfectionist. Visionary. Bold. Unapologetic.”
Fulvio Di Simoni italprojects.com
Rossinavi rossinavi.it
Unvarnished unvarnishedco.com
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