Natural Selection
Sustainable Interiors
Recycled plastics, plant-based leathers and reclaimed teak leaves: the future of yacht interiors is being reshaped by sustainable materials – without compromising on comfort or elegance.
Onboard M/Y Santosha, a 57-metre yacht launched by Heesen Yachts in 2024, design elements such as faux leather produced without PVCs, plasticizers or other harmful chemicals, and stone surfaces made of carbon-neutral Dekton porcelain were the specific choices of owners wanting clean aesthetics, comfort and natural fabrics.
57m Heesen design M/Y Santosha (Photo: Georges van Wensveen)
The yacht’s interiors, designed by Harrison Eidsgaard studios, were conceived with environmental responsibility as a guideline, says the Dutch shipyard. “Eco-conscious material selection was prioritised throughout, reflecting the growing demand from owners for greener, more ethical solutions,” says Heesen’s PR & Press Manager, Sara Gioanola, of the yacht, which has been celebrated at both the BOAT Design & Innovation Awards and the World Superyacht Awards.
Accelerating Trend
Sustainable design is no longer simply a, nice to have, in yacht design. “There is a clear and accelerating trend towards greater environmental awareness among our clientele,” says Gioanola. Not only are clients more receptive to sustainable options, but they “are increasingly requesting them”.
This shift is driven by a desire for responsible ownership and an appreciation for the innovation that sustainable materials often represent, she continues.
At Heesen, high-quality engineering woods are a cornerstone; these often utilise faster-growing wood species or recycled wood content, processed to achieve exceptional durability and aesthetic appeal while minimizing the impact on old-growth forests. Similarly, advanced performance leathers and leather alternatives have quickly become indispensable.
Winch Design Studio leads the way in developing sustainable materials (Photo: Winch Design)
These materials offer the luxurious feel and resilience of traditional leather but are often produced with more environmentally-friendly tanning processes or are entirely plant-based or synthetic.
Sunreef Yachts are another builder who are trailblazing in the sustainable interiors space, using natural materials such as fine wood veneers, stone, linen and ceramics. “We’ve introduced recycled PET foam into the interiors of our yachts,” says Marta Kaszuba, Sunreef’s Interior Design Department Manager. Made from up to 150,000 recycled plastic bottles, not only is this material repurposing a common waste, but it also reduces interior structure weight by 60 per cent compared to traditional plywood to improve fuel efficiency.
Sustainable solutions onboard the Sunreef 80 Eco and 60 Power Eco go further to include features such as Mosaicomicro tiles, made from discarded TV and PC screens, on bathroom walls, bed elements made from recycled textiles and floor carpets crafted from reclaimed fishing nets. Products like the award-winning ‘Smile’ armchair by Paola Lenti, which is crafted from waterproof, long-lasting and recyclable yarns, have also become a fleet favourite. “It's ideal for yacht environments and represents the kind of innovation we seek in all soft goods and furnishings,” says Kaszuba.
Leading design studio, Winch Design, now includes a sustainable materials specialist among its in-house team. Some of their favourite materials to incorporate into the studio’s designs include BeLeaf, a plant-based material crafted from real teak leaves that are naturally shed and responsibly harvested and are fully biodegradable and vegan. “Each Marche. “We integrated a thoughtful selection of environmentally-friendly materials such as reclaimed seashell composite, eggshell-textured walls and Flax, a versatile natural fibre derived from the stem of the plant, used for everything from fine linen to durable rope,” explains Dixon. The aesthetic, he continues, embraces earthy tones, matte finishes and organic textures, placing nature firmly at the heart of the design ethos. Delivery is scheduled for later this year.
Limited Availability
While significant progress has been made, challenges persist, such as higher wear and tear of natural materials in marine environments, limited availability of some of the more artisanal products and inconsistent supply chain. Yet the day a yacht floats out with a fully-sustainable interior isn’t a pipe dream.
Sheet retains the unique veining and texture of the original leaves, resulting in a beautifully organic aesthetic. No two pieces are ever the same,” says Jim Dixon, Winch Design’s Managing Partner and Creative Director.
Though it has a delicate, natural appearance, BeLeaf is coated with a non-toxic, water-based sealant that adds strength, flexibility and durability. The material was chosen for the dining room chairs onboard Heesen’s M/Y Sparta. “It brings a distinct sense of nature and craftsmanship to the space,” Dixon continues.
Lounge and Study by Winch Design on board of the Flexplorer 146 (Photo: Winch Design)