Nouveau

Nouveau, which featured in Q18, is a 90m concept by Andy Waugh. This year sees Waugh launch his own brand along with several new concepts having spent the past eight years working with prestigious UK-based design houses. Here the designer shares the thinking behind his concept.

Nouveau is a concept that pushes the boundaries of the yacht aesthetic to an extreme degree, which is made possible by sophisticated surface manipulation and careful management of three-dimensional space. Inspired by the works of the classical exponents of the art nouveau style including Alphonse Mucha and Antoni Gaudi, the design encapsulates the key principles of dynamism and organic form in an innovative and audacious manner.

The sweeping, diagonal lines create drama while concealing a surprisingly spacious interior, with the main deck head clearing 2.7m. The bridge deck is elevated above a character-filled owner's deck that features a full-width suite with balconies on both sides, harmoniously aligned with the circular profile shapes and the main deck entrance below. The sweeping, tentacle-like bulwark adds to the drama of the exterior styling while providing an enhanced sense of light, space and connection with the interior.

Sunbathing and informal lounging areas make up the owner's aft deck, which is linked to the decks above and below by spiral staircases and a water feature. Water runs from the Jacuzzi on the sundeck, across the bridge and owner decks, down via a water slide into the main deck pool. The purpose of this feature is to enhance the feeling of being at one with nature and the seascape.

Practicality and efficient use of space were not primary concerns for this concept but despite its radical looks, it has the potential to be a fully functioning yacht for owner and crew alike. A profile view of the design emphasises the concentric, circular form, which converges on the main deck entrance and gives an impressive sense of scale and theatre when boarding. Likewise if arriving from astern, the bold, organic superstructure appears to sprout and grow from the swimming platform.

Forward of the main deck are twin VIP cabins with fold-down balconies, while dining and lounging space is located aft and leads out on to an intimate deck with relaxed seating and an infinity pool. An owner’s office is situated aft of the wheelhouse, while an intimate sundeck above provides a secluded retreat from the other social areas. It is an ideal 360-degree viewing platform.

Nouveau is aimed at the more modern client with a relatively small entourage who prefers to define themselves by their style and taste in design rather than by sheer size.