For a couple of years now, we have seen that one of the features heavily promoted by shipyards is the quantity and quality of the natural light inside, first to offer a better view of the sea and a better atmosphere to the passengers, but also to reduce electricity consumption.
Azure Yacht design & Naval Architecture has worked with relevant consultants on a project to find a new approach to the use of glass. The goal is to break boundaries between interior and exterior areas by using glass on superstructures or aft areas (such as tender garages and beach clubs) and find solutions to the side effects (like solar radations).
Hugo van Wieringen, Azure Managing Director, explained: "Our research has shown that load bearing glass is not advisable on a yacht due to the dynamic behaviour in a seaway, so our focus has shifted to using glass with an alternative construction method. This has evolved into a concept using full glass walls on all superstructure decks. This concept results in great panoramic views, particularly when accompanied with glass bulwarks, without compromising the structural integrity of the vessel".
Azure will integrate the results in future designs.