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MY Aelia
by Studio Vafiadis

MY Aelia

by Studio Vafiadis

Shortlisted: Refit Award

The International Yacht & Aviation Awards 2025

IYA 2025
Studio Vafiadis

Studio Vafiadis has completed an extensive refit of Aelia, a 55-metre Benetti motor yacht, transforming its interior into a refined, contemporary sanctuary that reflects the owners’ sophisticated aesthetic. Originally defined by classical, ornate finishes, the yacht’s interior has been reimagined with a bold, modern approach, creating a luxurious yet understated atmosphere that aligns with the owners’ personal style and art collection.

The refit process began with a series of onboard meetings, allowing Studio Vafiadis to understand the owners’ needs while they used the yacht. The brief focused on enhancing comfort, improving lighting, and updating materials, all while maintaining the vessel’s functional layout. Central to the redesign was the redecoration of the expansive main salon, which now features newly designed seating, a striking custom bar, and a grand dining table. The entrance to the salon is one of the most notable transformations, with a bespoke bar adorned in flooded wood bronze decoration and Amani marble, set against a striking “rose petal” feature wall with hidden lighting. Two Giò Ponti armchairs, inspired by the 1950s golden era of ocean liners, add a touch of timeless elegance.

The dual-owner suite layout remains intact but has been significantly refined. Both master cabins feature brand-new bed structures with enlarged dimensions and headboards crafted from fine Tuscan interlaced leather. Similarly, the guest cabins—four on the lower deck, two VIP cabins on the main deck, and two master cabins on the upper deck—have undergone a complete transformation. Beds, headboards, and nightstands have been redesigned with a sleek, rounded aesthetic, finished in bronze paint and upholstered in luxurious new fabrics. Each cabin now boasts a distinct identity, using a calming palette of greens and greys to enhance the tranquil onboard experience.

Studio Vafiadis
Studio Vafiadis

Lighting played a pivotal role in the refit, with a photometric study informing the placement of anti-glare spotlights to correct previous dark areas and improve overall visual comfort. The bridge dining room has also been entirely reimagined to maximise natural light, further enhancing the yacht’s inviting ambiance.

Through this meticulous refit, Studio Vafiadis has successfully elevated Aelia into a contemporary masterpiece, blending modern luxury with timeless craftsmanship while ensuring every space is tailored to the owners’ vision.

Interior Designer: Stefano Vafiadis

Shipyard: Lusben

Photography: Studio Reskos

Studio Vafiadis have been shortlisted for Refit Award in The International Yacht & Aviation Awards 2025.

Studio Vafiadis
Studio Vafiadis

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