What does luxury mean in the contemporary world?
GMC: In the contemporary world, the meaning of luxury has evolved far beyond traditional notions of opulence, extravagance, or material excess. Today, luxury is often defined by the intangible qualities and experiences that add depth, meaning, and uniqueness to our lives.
Modern luxury is rooted in individuality and personalization, the possibility to have something crafted exclusively for oneself, reflecting personal tastes, values, and aspirations. Whether it's a bespoke suit, a custom-built yacht, a work of art, or a private culinary experience, the hallmark of luxury lies in its uniqueness.
Another defining characteristic of contemporary luxury is time and space. In an increasingly fast-paced and connected world, the ultimate privilege is having the time to relax, reflect, and enjoy meaningful experiences. Luxury is about carving out moments of tranquility, whether in a serene retreat, a private sanctuary, or simply the freedom to disconnect.
Sustainability and ethical responsibility have also become key pillars of modern luxury. High-end consumers are increasingly drawn to brands and products that demonstrate a commitment to environmental and social responsibility. The notion of luxury is shifting toward quality and longevity, owning fewer but better things that are crafted with care and respect for people and the planet.
Lastly, contemporary luxury is about exclusivity in experience rather than just possession. It's the journey, the story behind the creation, and the emotional connection that something inspires. This could mean witnessing a once-in-a-lifetime event, accessing hidden cultural gems.
In essence, luxury today is less about 'having' or 'showing off', and more about 'being': being present, being selective, and being deeply connected to the things that truly enrich our lives.
MRM: From the broader concept of luxury to a shipyard that produces luxury yachts: Cantiere delle Marche, a brand that, alongside its position as the world leader in the explorer yachts' segment, became a benchmark in luxury yacht manufacturing.
MRM: If I look at renderings of RAW, trying to put aside all the information I have on the project, what I struck me is how well-proportioned this yacht is. The vessel has a modern and uncluttered design, with recognizable geometrical/orthogonal elements that have lost their sharp angles acquiring a softness. In my opinion, you master the ability to give shape to yachts that are objects of art. Please, tell me what you think of this project.
GMC: I have to start from the very beginning, when Vasco and Ennio asked me to develop a new explorer yacht that, while encompassing all the intrinsic characteristics of an explorer yacht would add to the typology a new touch, a well-defined spirit.
The process was almost immediate, easy I dare say, because we were tuned on the same frequency and from the initial sketches I proposed, very few changes have been done, just minor adjustments.
We started from considering what the yacht should offer in term of arrangements, functionality and technical equipment then we passed to the further level that is the creation of exteriors that, alongside the perception of its robustness and reliability, transmitted a sense of joy and playfulness. This brings me back to the essence of true luxury: it's about the pure joy and deep satisfaction that fill your heart. Luxury is the feeling of smiling with genuine contentment as you immerse yourself in the beauty of your RAW, a moment of connection, creativity, and self-expression. That quality time with yourself, where happiness meets fulfillment, is the ultimate luxury.
GMC: Working with Cantiere delle Marche is a privilege and a pleasure for me. Cantiere delle Marche has earned a well-deserved reputation among the world's top luxury yacht builders, thanks to a combination of profound knowledge of the market, quality, precision, and the ability to think outside the box, redefining what is possible in yacht design and yachting in a broader sense.
One of the key strengths of Cantiere delle Marche is undoubtedly their commitment to producing highly distinctive yachts. Each vessel is a masterpiece of meticulous design, blending form and function seamlessly to deliver not only aesthetic excellence but also superior performance at sea.
What I've witnessed in my experience with Cantiere delle Marche is their uncompromising focus on construction quality. This is complemented by an exceptional attention to detail in both design and execution, ensuring that every aspect of the yacht is carefully considered and perfectly executed. Vasco and Ennio are always there, supervising and 'pampering' each explorer yacht's construction as if it was the first and only.
For me, as a designer, this means that my project receives a unique attention… it is not just a yacht to be sold and built… and well-advised yacht owners chose Cantiere delle Marche for this, among other reasons linked to quality and reliability.
What stemmed from the brainstorming meetings with Ennio and Vasco, and the following design process in our studio, is a little masterpiece with extremely generous accommodations for owners, guests and crew. A yacht where all different parts fit together harmoniously. There is a series of smart design and functional solutions that add a 'bonus' to a yacht that already offers the best in the category it belongs to. I worked a lot to combine aesthetics and functionality.
MRM: Please, describe RAW's main features so that looking at the renderings we are guided to fully understand this project.
GMC: RAW's design is commanding, defined by a modern, geometric aesthetic. The high bow conceals two 5-meter tenders and water skis on the forward section of the upper deck. This is a remarkable aspect, a feat that is unheard of for a yacht measuring just 30 meters. At the opposite end, the main deck's expansive aft cockpit has been designed for year-round usability. It can be enclosed with floor-to-ceiling glass doors on both sides, transforming into a veranda-like space. Simultaneously, the overhang of the upper deck provides full shade and protection, creating a comfortable lounging area seamlessly connected to the salon and a spacious beach zone at the stern. A broad staircase leads down to a swim platform with a panoramic sunbed. Beyond its practical function, the staircase doubles as a casual seating area, perfect for sipping wine or taking in the scenery.
The swim platform itself is an innovative design, acting as a panoramic balcony bordered by a bulwark with a handrail. A section of the bulwark can fold down, providing easy access to the water. This feature is both ingeniously adaptable and elegantly straightforward in its mechanics.
One of RAW's standout design elements is the positioning of ventilation trunks outside the salon, cleverly placed behind the fashion plates to ensure no interior space is lost. This capability is the result of meticulous layout optimization, refined through multiple iterations.
From a functional standpoint, RAW excels in integrating all technical spaces and storage areas into the design from the very beginning. This holistic approach allowed the design to maximize available space and opportunities, turning constraints into strengths rather than limitations.
The interior social spaces seamlessly blend with the surrounding landscape through expansive glazed surfaces, eliminating the visual boundary between indoor and outdoor areas. Open-air spaces further extend the living areas, doubling their utility. I know that other yachts offer similar indoor-outdoor fluidity, yet RAW is not a mere showpiece for trendy Mediterranean marinas or bays. It asserts itself as a rugged explorer yacht with a range exceeding 5,000 nautical miles, designed to handle rough weather and challenging seas.
At just 30 meters, RAW is a true little ship, sturdy and capable, graced by an ineffably fresh, playful aesthetic.
