First look inside classic 54m Benetti yacht Sojo following extensive interior refit

Greek design studio Ira Petromanolaki Yacht Design (IPYD) has unveiled a first look inside the classic 53.9-metre Benetti motor yacht Sojo following extensive interior refit works. 

Originally named Seabreeze, the motor yacht was sold in March this year, subsequently undergoing refit works under her new owner. Greek yard Spanopoulos Shipyard in Athens was responsible for the refit, which was redesigned by IPYD, while Ioannis Agrotis served as project manager throughout.

Sojo was originally delivered in 1984 by Benetti, constructed in steel and aluminium to a design from the yard's in-house team and outfitted with interiors by Celeste Dell'Anna - though refits over the years have seen Evan K. Marshall and Mongiardino complete interior redesigns. 

This time, IPYD has overseen the yacht's interior redesign, transforming Sojo's previous interiors with a contemporary, mid-century modernist style, while giving special attention to preserving original elements and honouring the yacht's classic original exterior lines. 

According to the studio, "every detail has been carefully curated", from the materials and textures to the loose furniture, which has also been sourced exclusively from high-end Italian brands. Light also played a major role throughout; each area was redesigned to enhance the feeling of brightness and openness, offset by warm woods and supple leathers to create a welcoming ambience.

Both the main deck saloon and the upper deck lounge now feature contrasting tones and textures, curated in a "distinctive yet harmonious atmosphere". The main saloon is now fitted with low-profile twin sofas to aft, providing a welcoming flow through to the dining table for 12, which lies forward. 

Above, the sky lounge is host to another 12-seating dining table, yet a marble bar and loose contemporary furniture catch the eye. 

Up top, the sundeck has been transformed with a palette of green and blue, creating a serene atmosphere across the lounging areas. A large bar, a Jacuzzi and a touch-and-go helipad complete the space.

IPYD is responsible for the interiors of several other yacht builds, including the 41.4-metre Baglietto motor yacht Aquila, owned by the legendary late Italian designer Roberto Cavalli, which was listed for sale in October.