Hot off the Mondomarine custom superyacht production line comes the racing red 50-metre Ipanema dressed in her eye-catching exterior shade. We take you onboard this Italian beauty to reveal that the madness does not stop at what’s to see outside, but features an equally extroverted take on a modern classic interior on the inside.
For Milan-based design studio, Hot Lab, Ipanema was a home run as the trio was tasked with the design of both interior and exterior areas on Ipanema. The concept was born in 2012 known as the M50 model created for the Italian shipyard. The dynamic and sporty exterior gives the impression that Ipanema is constantly moving at speed, even while relaxing at anchor.
This is achieved with a shallow sloping stern line and bold, cutting shapes in the superstructure profile – a style that has become so characteristic as a result of the studio’s automotive roots. Her striking hull colour beautifully captures the owner’s youthful spirit. “Achieving the perfect proportions and balance in the volume were key for achieving the beautiful lines,” explains Anonio Romano from Hot Lab.
Keeping Ipanema’s internal volume below 500 GT left the design team with a generous amount of exterior spaces that could be utilised for entertainment and relaxing. There is no better place to do this than on the sundeck. A single-level, uninterrupted area dedicated to sunbathing, lounging and outdoor dining is what awaits guests. The very forward area of this deck is where one finds the impressive Jacuzzi that overlooks the foredeck.
Two oversized U-shaped sofas on the Portuguese deck that faces each other creates the perfect chill spot on board when looking for an afternoon escape.
Ipanema’s interior might come as a bit of a shock at first glance. What might seem like a deeply classical and ostentatious affair is, in fact, a mixture of timeless elements and modern materials to create a somewhat toned-down retro effect. “We had to refer to books to study the classical elements of the architecture that the owner desired,” says Romano. “The client is really satisfied of the final effect.”
French and English-inspired style takes one back to an era of wealth and opulence through the use of high quality marbles (of which there are over 10 different types throughout the yacht), fabrics and furnishings.
The large windows that run along the sides on main deck transforms what would otherwise be a gloomy space into a vibrant and comfortable main saloon, with the abundance of sunlight picking up each design element and amplifying the rich colours and textures.
The master suite is where one can truly appreciate Hot Lab’s handiwork in executing the owner’s desired style. Plush upholstery, floral motives and colourful decorative touches creates a tasteful sense of grandeur and elegance. The en suite is an all-marble soiree and is a fine example of Mondomarine’s custom-built touch.
Four double guest suites, two VIP and two twin cabins, are situated on the lower deck separated by the central staircase. There is no lack in vibrancy down here as each suite is decorated in its own unique popping colour.
Back on deck, Ipanema’s garage is where her matching red guest tender is stowed and when opened, transforms into a generous beach club.
For Romano, working with the Mondomarine engineering team, who were responsible for the naval architecture of Ipanema, as well as the management of the shipyard, proved to be a crucial part of the success of the project. “The shipyard has done a great job on this project, completing the yacht in less than 22 months. It has been a pleasure to collaborate with the yard, especially with the Mondomarine engineering department. Mr. Zambrini and Mr. Falciai believed in our studio from day 1 and the positive feedback received from the industry during the 2016 Monaco Yacht Show serve as confirmation that together we can create incredible yachts.”
