Italy

Supernova Design Studio 

In conversation with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7700" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supernova Design Studio (Company)">Supernova Design</a>: “Today’s clients want spaces that feel personal, warm and connected to the sea rather than purely impressive.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377379/image/large-2f4235ac63d70aec60f3f85fdb7277c6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377379">For Giulia Grassi, founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7700" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supernova Design Studio (Company)">Supernova Design</a>, which has offices in Lake Como, Monaco and Miami, the path to yacht design began in the marinas of Monaco. Walking &nbsp;with her grandfather, a residential interior designer known for his work with clients such as Elvis Presley, Liberace and members of various royal families. Surrounded by gleaming yachts, those early visits proved formative, inspiring her interest in yacht design. “I asked him to buy me one of the yachts,” she recalls. “He told me, ‘Sweetie, what’s even more rewarding than owning one is to be the designer of it.’”That remark, and her grandfather’s example of being a self-made man, became the catalyst for Giulia’s pursuit of design. After completing her studies, she began her career in Monaco as an intern and eventually rose to head the yachting department at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5440" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sabrina Monte-Carlo (Company)">Sabrina Monte-Carlo</a>. Her time there, she says, gave her solid technical grounding and insight into the expectations of yacht clients.SuperYacht Times sat down with Giulia to discuss her decision to establish <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7700" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supernova Design Studio (Company)">Supernova Design</a>, the refit of the 52-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a>, the studio’s expansion into residential work, and her views on evolving trends in yacht interiors.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377380/image/large-f461764a550db0bdddeeb5b28e350db9.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377380">Founding&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7700" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supernova Design Studio (Company)">Supernova Design Studio</a>Reflecting on her decision to establish <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7700" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supernova Design Studio (Company)">Supernova Design</a> in 2022, Giulia describes it as “a natural step in my journey.” After several years leading the yachting department at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5440" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sabrina Monte-Carlo (Company)">Sabrina Monte-Carlo</a>, she felt it was time to create something of her own. “I wanted to build a studio that reflected my personal vision,” she says, “bringing together a collective of young designers and architects from both the yachting and residential worlds, all sharing the same passion for the sea.”What began as a solo venture soon evolved into a family enterprise and a small team of designers joining as new projects came in.Collaboration, she explains, lies at the heart of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7700" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supernova Design Studio (Company)">Supernova’s</a> identity. Many of the artisans she works with today once collaborated with her grandfather. “They’ve known me since I was a child,” she adds. “It was important to give something back to them, and together we can offer yacht owners pieces that truly reflect their personality and lifestyle.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377378/image/large-a6475448d6bb9a5ddb89c8125e833d21.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377378">The refit of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7700" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supernova Design Studio (Company)">Supernova’s</a> first major project was the interior refit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a>, a 52-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> built in the 1990s and completed at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4405" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IMS Shipyard (Company)">IMS Shipyard</a> in the South of France. The owner acquired the yacht for family cruising and occasional charter use, with the brief to enhance comfort without compromising her original character.“The aim was to create spaces that could accommodate a large family while preserving the elegance and identity of such a beautiful vessel,” Giulia explains.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377374/image/large-554a2770696b0c4d629de3da6dafc084.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377374">The scope of work was ambitious, involving the complete redesign of the main and upper decks. “After the drawings were approved, we had just four months to complete the work, and we handled everything in-house with our artisans, from fabrication to installation,” she continues. “Completing the refit on schedule without compromising quality was our absolute priority.”The decision to carry out the refit at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4405" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IMS Shipyard (Company)">IMS</a> came from the owner’s project management team. The shipyard oversaw all technical aspects, including the restoration of the engines, which were removed and reinstalled during the process. “It required close cooperation between us and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4405" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IMS Shipyard (Company)">IMS</a> to keep the timeline on track,” Giulia recalls. “While they focused on the engineering work, we coordinated our interior installation around it to ensure the yacht could be relaunched on time.” The refit later received the Best in Refit award at the 2025 International Superyacht Society Awards during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/273" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show - 2025">Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2025</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377381/image/large-70cec902c3d0a687539486452ed1423e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377381">Following the completion of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a>, Supernova soon undertook another project, the refit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13962" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zaffiro27.0m (88'7&quot;)Canados1974">Zaffiro</a>, a 27-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/560" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Canados (Company)">Canados</a>. “The owners approached me after hearing about our work on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a>,” Giulia says. “It was very much word of mouth.”This time, the brief came from within the same family, who wanted to adapt <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13962" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zaffiro27.0m (88'7&quot;)Canados1974">Zaffiro</a> primarily for charter use. “They told me they needed the yacht prepared for a specific purpose, and we began a close collaboration,” she explains. One of the family members, a professional singer, wished to use the yacht as a setting for small private performances and events, so the sun deck was redesigned as an open, flexible area. “We dismantled all the fixed furniture and restored the teak deck to create a completely free space,” Giulia adds. “That way, it can be configured for concerts, private gatherings or simply to enjoy time with guests.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377375/image/large-5f9f87464be53fed13de5673a7056bb9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377375"> Evolving trends in yacht interior designGiulia observes that yacht interiors have undergone a marked transformation in recent years, shifting from displays of opulence to expressions of lifestyle and emotion. “Today’s clients want spaces that feel personal, warm and connected to the sea rather than purely impressive,” she explains. “Interiors from the 1990s were often defined by gold accents and glossy finishes, whereas now we see softer, more organic shapes and natural materials inspired by light and nature.”Sustainability, she adds, is increasingly central to this change. “Many owners today are conscious of their environmental impact and are looking for more energy-efficient systems and timeless design solutions,” Giulia notes. “Among the clients I work with, roughly half place strong emphasis on eco-friendly choices, while others prioritise time and cost. The younger generation tends to be more environmentally focused, but even long-standing yacht owners are beginning to adopt the same attitude."<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7700" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supernova Design Studio (Company)"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377377/image/large-2b19354e0591cc38966ebe5af9db0b28.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377377">Supernova’s</a>&nbsp;future directionAs for current work and future direction, Giulia shares that the studio is presently engaged in the refit of a 20-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> built in the 1960s. “Our focus is on restoring her original character while giving her a new lease of life,” she states.Giulia acknowledges that while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7700" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supernova Design Studio (Company)">Supernova</a> has focused on refit interior projects, the team is also open to new-build opportunities. “Refit projects have defined our identity,” she says. “They require creativity, precision and strong problem-solving skills. We already have a few requests for new builds and see this as a natural progression for the studio. The expertise gained through refit gives us the confidence to approach new construction with the same attention to detail.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377376/image/large-4def95170ec9e30743f68da552f7a3bc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377376">

Inside Supernova Design: Giulia Grassi on yacht refits and interiors

SuperYacht Times spoke with Giulia Grassi about founding Supernova Design, refitting the 52-metre Benetti Solafide, and evolving interior trends.

Inside Supernova Design: Giulia Grassi's focus on yacht refits and evolving interior trends

The 52-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a> is on the market with Julien Solari and Della Pearce of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a>. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> has undergone a multi-million-euro refit between 2023 and 2025, enhancing her engineering, systems, interiors, as well as the paintwork on her hull and superstructure.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354493/image/large-9775caa6aa702277d607894c4e1364f1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354493">Originally delivered in 1995, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a> features naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti’s</a> in-house team, with her timeless profile refined under the supervision of Tommaso Spadolini and interiors redesigned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7700" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supernova Design Studio (Company)">Supernova Design Studio</a> during the refit.&nbsp;Her interiors showcase warm wood finishes, soft lighting, and a neutral colour scheme, complemented by elegant onyx accents. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/solafide" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Solafide for sale</a> offers a spacious main saloon, ideal for relaxing or enjoying coffee with guests around the circular table next to the plush sofa. A sliding glass partition provides the option to divide the area for added privacy. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354531/image/large-dfc9cc83bd90eac1c21ddb8b8bd47d0a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354531">Additionally, the upper saloon can be transformed into either an extra guest suite or a private cinema. Integrated LED lighting and mood presets ensure effortless transitions from day to night, while concealed AV systems and custom-designed furnishings with hidden storage help maintain an uncluttered atmosphere.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354540/image/large-671c88a275e74a08b4558690f8229d02.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354540">In terms of accommodation, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> can sleep up to 12 guests across six well-appointed staterooms. The layout includes a main deck master suite featuring a walk-in wardrobe, his-and-hers marble bathroom, and a private office or lounge that can be converted into a media room or an adjoining children’s suite. Completing the accommodation is a newly added VIP suite and four guest suites, two doubles and two twins, one of which is convertible to a double and fitted with Pullman berths. Both twins feature en suite bathrooms, high-quality joinery, and generous storage throughout. Crew quarters for up to 12 are located forward.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354487/image/large-09945d3f5ace84c54664e442a929baa8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354487">Moving outside, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide’s</a> exterior spaces offer a variety of flexible options. As part of the refit, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/benetti/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Benetti yacht for sale</a> now features a helipad-capable sundeck with a centrally positioned Jacuzzi and freestanding lounge furniture for easy reconfiguration. The main aft deck has been updated to include an alfresco lounge area with fold-down terraces. Additional alfresco dining options are available across the main, bridge, and sundecks, each offering wind protection and versatile furnishings.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354485/image/large-e6c47a9a1cbb63a417541a3ad55a82dd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354485">Regarding her propulsion system, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1448" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Deutz AG (Company)">Deutz AG</a> engines, giving her a cruising speed of 14 knots and a top speed of 21 knots.

Benetti yacht Solafide for sale

The 52-metre Benetti superyacht Solafide is on the market with Camper & Nicholsons.

52m Benetti superyacht Solafide for sale

New images of the 52-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a> have been unveiled, providing a closer look at the vessel following an extensive refit that took place between July 2023 and April 2024 at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4405" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IMS Shipyard (Company)">IMS Shipyard</a> in Toulon, France. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354482/image/large-775084376a9f8e0cd406fead2168c188.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354482">Originally delivered in 1995 under the name Tommy, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a> has been reimagined by architect <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Arch. Tommaso Spadolini (Company)">Tommaso Spadolini</a> and designer Giulia Grassi of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7700" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supernova Design Studio (Company)">Supernova Design Studio</a> working in close collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4405" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IMS Shipyard (Company)">IMS Shipyard</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354475/image/large-b676bd35195e9af236a8fb141e7241d1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354475"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354476/image/large-3e0bc1b3e5ab921d3e2890aa0dd496f8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354476">As architect <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Arch. Tommaso Spadolini (Company)">Tommaso Spadolini</a> explained, "The owner's vision was crystal clear: he had fallen in love with this <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> but wanted to refresh it both technically and aesthetically – &nbsp;inside and out – while maintaining the classic character of the yacht, but with a contemporary look. Above all, he needed a yacht capable of accommodating his large family."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354479/image/large-fbb36f4678cdb730a8d0382e8dbe2bc0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354479"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354477/image/large-d1598934d1b09953e853165bbd6f26c8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354477">Initial contact with the owner kicked off in July 2023, and by August, the first drafts were drawn up. After the plans were approved in December, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a> was completed and had re-entered the water come April 2024. “It was a true pleasure modernising such a beautiful yacht as this <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> 52m, originally designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/245" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Stefano Natucci (Company)">Stefano Natucci</a>, whose work was truly exceptional,” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Arch. Tommaso Spadolini (Company)">Tommaso Spadolini</a> enthused. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354484/image/large-4fabf1055bbdb6f5e09fadf93ceaeaad.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354484"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354486/image/large-c85de70dd5a945a7bfa94858d1661d88.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354486">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Arch. Tommaso Spadolini (Company)">Spadolini</a>-led refit was centered around modernising the superyacht’s exterior design with a refreshed, contemporary aesthetic, as well as upgrading her technology, which required renewal after over three decades of use.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354493/image/large-b7fa700a7679216f8d3c2b12befc0096.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354493"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354487/image/large-d91c96a58f56f4ead4e2889f933572fd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354487"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Arch. Tommaso Spadolini (Company)">Spadolini</a> recounted, ”We started with the yacht’s original cream colour, which we replaced with white, adding dark stripes and stainless-steel grids for a sleeker look. In particular, we focused on the aft area of the main deck, which was initially designed to house two tenders. We transformed it into a lounge area that can be enjoyed while cruising or at anchor. Hatches were added and we modified the aft railing by opening the two retractable side terraces to improve the sea view.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354502/image/large-4401772dc8d94dcee19a40c5c1ad712f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354502"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354507/image/large-6d7ed8b2949adeb703e7de90b316f6eb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354507"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354500/image/large-484da8936a1984b2634f658f4a2d62a1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354500">“We also created a fully equipped sunbathing area forward of the helm, complete with awnings and a new access point. On the flybridge, the original technical space was transformed into an elegant area with teak flooring and posts for the awnings,” he continued.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354501/image/large-d4a447ed3be904bd8f2d74f946d92c4a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354501"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354505/image/large-a124fe995d3d7b67c8a8b0b7c3dd4ccc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354505"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354503/image/large-44e91c296c52ddbdb23bf9f8a8740f0d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354503">Solafide</a>’s two 16-cylinder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1448" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Deutz AG (Company)">Deutz</a> engines, each with 2,400 horsepower, needed to be removed in order to complete their overall, for which the living deck was cut through. The deck could only be closed and the fitting-out resumed cutting once these engines returned from the factory.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354558/image/large-e4ca7f8168d36a0d0dc37e1ce5befbb3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354558"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354521/image/large-4cd82742d2dcddfc8ad193230a565bff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354521"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354525/image/large-4a7b0a166eb1876657009edce74b208e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354525">As for the yacht’s structural side, here, multiple steel plates and the hull panels on the superstructure have been replaced. The sunbathing area, which doubles as a platform to land helicopters during navigation, had its entire structure reinforced and was equipped with movable furniture and an ‘H’ design across its teak floor.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354530/image/large-0430bece8551d384b029dd9abbc756f3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354530"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354518/image/large-d95302f2c8fa29c3d9e83e1f256d9c42.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354518"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354520/image/large-18b050b2f30f8c86ef02196e77c9f2e2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354520">Furthermore, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a> has had her electrical system completely overhauled, while also benefitting from upgrades to the navigation aids and connectivity systems for the latest technological standards. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354495/image/large-084429585495eda67dddbb087c424de7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354495"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354498/image/large-e40eef3fadbd32a06098f7c10dfc4395.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354498"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354528/image/large-bc94071db5a3d9fb5992421d6321f6c2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354528">Moving inside, designer Giulia Grassi, owner of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7700" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supernova Design Studio (Company)">Supernova Design Studio</a>, was tasked with preserving the vessel’s history while simultaneously introducing modern design details. Here, the aim was to enhance the bright and contemporary feel of the living spaces, while also building upon the classic 1990s furniture, without sacrificing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a>’s interior character.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354539/image/large-4320a66332431b035dc499888b5f2e2c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354539"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354531/image/large-73a069cedb82b6f50b7c52917880637a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354531">Grassi commented: “The owner requested more seating capacity – both in terms of lounge areas and cabins. We carried out a full transformation of the spaces, optimising them by reorganising internal partitions and adding custom-designed furniture, like sofas and pieces that reflected the yacht’s overall aesthetic. For example, we removed some built-in furniture from the dining area on the main deck to make room for a table that could comfortably seat the entire family. The outdoor areas were also enhanced with custom cushions and modular furniture which increase comfort and flexibility, particularly in the new aft area of the main deck where the connection to the sea is now more intimate than ever.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354534/image/large-743cc573dd3647523b716f6647597317.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354534"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354533/image/large-e6d0a781322748d6fe722f71bc08af19.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354533">When it comes to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a>’s main deck, the furniture has been removed and the bulky curtains scrapped for a sense of aerial spaciousness. Not only that, but the seating arrangements have been expanded and the furniture has been redesigned with custom-made pieces, apart from the armchairs and chairs. The saloon’s sofa, for instance, was conceived with built-in storage and the side tables that can be converted into extra seating to host more family members.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354532/image/large-201ddabeb50ccfcbbd7589c6ef81e75f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354532"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354536/image/large-035824d087e119a61160b94f85fdaf9c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354536">New life has also been breathed into the dining room, where the partition was repositioned aft, paving the way for more room. In addition, the floor has been replaced and now dons a white onyx-coloured section beneath the table, paired with a backlit, colour-changing wall. Meanwhile, a system of mirrors ensures that the sea is within view of every seat at the dining table.Although the owner’s suite remains mostly unchanged, several of the upper deck living areas have been repurposed. For example, the lounge area now has the ability to transform into a stateroom for sleeping guests when it isn’t being used as an interactive TV room with a bespoke sofa crafted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7700" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supernova Design Studio (Company)">Supernova Design Studio</a>. The upper deck is also home to a new VIP stateroom.&nbsp;Moving outdoors, the aft exterior area has been upgraded with new furniture and air conditioning. Similarly, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/268" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solafide52.0m (170'7&quot;)Benetti SpA1995">Solafide</a>’s flybridge now boasts aft furniture that is removable in order to accommodate a helicopter. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354496/image/large-b541635e8d517e00c6a07554dca40df6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354496"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354488/image/large-59ae8413fc2be5fd19eafda4cd2bcf28.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354488">“Now, with virtually new engines, the yacht can cruise at 21 knots thanks to its narrow, high-performance hull. The maximum beam is ‘only’ 8.9-metres, which is quite rare for modern yachts of similar size. We’re also proud to have kept the displacement under 500 tons – 472 tons, to be precise,” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Arch. Tommaso Spadolini (Company)">Spadolini</a> concluded.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354478/image/large-ada04e8c1658643c38f017172099c123.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354478"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354489/image/large-b56650e7932716eaed01add92074244d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354489">

Onboard 52m Benetti yacht Solafide post-refit

New images of the 52-metre Benetti superyacht Solafide have been unveiled, providing a closer look at the vessel following an extensive refit.
