Aquariva by Marc Newson at the MYS 2010

European première for new Riva yacht after the resounding success of the New York presentation.

As a European première, the Aquariva by Marc Newson was presented at the 20th Monaco Yacht Show, following the resounding success of the world première held at the Gagosian Gallery in New York on 14th September 2010.

The project has been developed through a partnership between Riva, Officina Italiana Design and Marc Newson, and provides for a limited edition of just 22 units.

Newson’s design for the Aquariva vessel is unique in its conception, as well as the materials chosen. A wood-like, textile-based laminate (phenolic composite) was used for the deck area and instrument panel. This material was developed in the first half of the 20th century, and was a precursor to fibreglass. While having an ostensibly organic feel and aesthetic, it is significantly more durable than wood. To give the exterior a more high tech look, Newson utilized anodized aluminium, a material not generally associated with boats; this lightweight material is used in lieu of stainless steel and chrome brass, yet remains contextual among Riva’s glamour and classical design.

“As a kid obsessed with designing and making things, post-war Italian design was a huge source of inspiration. I was amazed by the seamless ability of designers and industry to produce every conceivable type of industrial product, from furniture to automobiles. My own career has undoubtedly been influenced by the Italians’ ability to impact so many areas of design,” says Marc Newson. “That influence is fully evident in ‘Aquariva by Marc Newson’, my first nautical design project for the iconic Italian brand.”

Respecting the DNA of the original project created by Officina Italiana Design was paramount to Newson’s design for Aquariva. With this in mind, some of the changes he makes are truly innovative: the re-imagining of the transom (at the stern), the wrap-around, laminated glass windscreen, the split cabin door entry, the functionality of the lounge and dining area, and the re-introduction of separate driver and passenger seats. Aquariva by Marc Newson’s simplicity and functionality are what make the boat truly extraordinary. The end product of Newson’s design is an uprated Riva complete with a bow thruster and state-of-the-art electronic transmission.

“Officina Italiana Design and Marc Newson are two of the top representatives of international design,” declared Norberto Ferretti, Ferretti Group Chairman, “so it is a great honour for me to witness this working relationship, a new important project for Riva”.

“Aquariva by Marc Newson is a natural extension of the artist’s work with planes and automobiles. The result is a brilliant blend of form and function, looking back to La Dolce Vita of the 1950’s and 1960’s and forward to the latest trends in nautical design,” says Larry Gagosian.

The range of Riva Yachts on NauticNews.com

Tags on NauticNews: Riva Yachts – Marc Newson – Norberto Ferretti – Aquariva

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