In Profile:
Pindaros LLC

Name: Sara Stamford

Company: PINDAROS

Position within company: principal & co-founder

Website: www.pindaros.net

Tell us a little about your background in design:
As a child I always took great joy in exploring various cities, museums, different buildings and all that evoked my curiosity to know how these structures came into existence. Before starting work on project Arwen, we built and designed many homes in the US and Europe, and building a yacht was simply another challenge to take on. Why not? Why not create something breathtaking to glide over water while marveling at its beauty? We designed Arwen with the utmost attention to detail, blending opulence with comfort to create a truly inviting atmosphere. Why not make it a new home for someone, their new abode? Most yachts have such a generic look that is obvious when stepping aboard, the ambience is just not right. But what we have ultimately strived to achieve is the luxurious and serene, home-like environment that you never want to leave. It’s a place where guests can escape the ordinary and indulge in the extraordinary, savoring a lifestyle of luxury in a setting that feels like a true home away from home.

How would you describe your personal design style?
I would describe my design style as one that pushes the boundaries of conventional design. I like open spaces with eco-friendly finishes, complemented by natural stone and large windows to bring natural light into the living spaces. I personally oversee all details to make sure every stage of our projects is well-thought through, choosing the right materials and dimensions, color palettes and innovative methods of applying various finishes.

Where does your design inspiration come from?
When it comes to design inspiration – combining the most harmonious way of living with the essence of luxury, ensuring that both aspects work together seamlessly is key. My primary inspiration is the ocean. The water itself is a study in shades of blues and greens, and as the sun begins to set, the sky transforms into a palette of warm hues – soft shades of pink, orange and gold. The water becomes a liquid mirror that captures and magnifies every uniquely stunning sunset. I wanted to create something that fits right into that and is not dissonant with its surroundings but becomes part of it.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I believe that in today’s world, environmental responsibility is more important than ever. Project Arwen embodies our commitment to focusing on sustainability. We have implemented advanced, eco-friendly technologies and efficient waste management solutions to minimize our environmental impact. By embracing green practices and sustainable materials we have created a yacht that not only provides unparalleled luxury, but also respects and preserves the beautiful marine environment. For its technology, we have designed seamless connectivity and cutting-edge innovations, including touchscreen panels with voice controls, smart-tinting glass, programmable water temperature settings in the showers and state-of-art entertainment systems throughout the yacht. It is important to keep up with the current state of living. So, I believe in the synchronicity of these two directions that design is moving toward: sustainability and technology.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2024 and beyond.
I think a mix of comfort and cutting-edge technology is the larger theme for 2024 and beyond, with the harmonious utilization of natural and organic resources in every design. Less cluttered spaces, eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems and an abundance of natural light.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
When it comes to design schemes – it’s very personal with me. But if I could offer one piece of insight when it comes to design schemes, it would be to always prioritize cohesion and harmony. Balancing patterns and textures. Mixing different materials such as wood, metal, glass and textiles, while ensuring sure they harmonize with each other.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?
Project Arwen is my favorite to date. It is the result of a multiyear journey to create an extraordinary superyacht which brings land-based luxury, technology and sustainability to the ocean. Understated and nuanced in its design and reflecting today’s changing lifestyles, this yacht is a luxurious and highly versatile habitat on the water, where family and friends can have personalized, transformative experiences to connect with nature and in full privacy. Every aspect of the yacht’s design and engineering reflects customization and personalization. From its 20-meter pool that transforms into a vast outdoor entertainment area, to its spacious living room with 6-meter, soaring ceiling heights. Not to mention a sculptural spiral staircase, indoor and outdoor cinemas, a fully featured world-class spa, a helipad, multiple bar and entertainment areas and numerous other amenities. Project Arwen is exquisite in every single way.

Where does your design inspiration come from?
When it comes to design inspiration – combining the most harmonious way of living with the essence of luxury, ensuring that both aspects work together seamlessly is key. My primary inspiration is the ocean. The water itself is a study in shades of blues and greens, and as the sun begins to set, the sky transforms into a palette of warm hues – soft shades of pink, orange and gold. The water becomes a liquid mirror that captures and magnifies every uniquely stunning sunset. I wanted to create something that fits right into that and is not dissonant with its surroundings but becomes part of it.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I believe that in today’s world, environmental responsibility is more important than ever. Project Arwen embodies our commitment to focusing on sustainability. We have implemented advanced, eco-friendly technologies and efficient waste management solutions to minimize our environmental impact. By embracing green practices and sustainable materials we have created a yacht that not only provides unparalleled luxury, but also respects and preserves the beautiful marine environment. For its technology, we have designed seamless connectivity and cutting-edge innovations, including touchscreen panels with voice controls, smart-tinting glass, programmable water temperature settings in the showers and state-of-art entertainment systems throughout the yacht. It is important to keep up with the current state of living. So, I believe in the synchronicity of these two directions that design is moving toward: sustainability and technology.