The concept includes a helipad for far-flung adventures and an unusually large air-conditioning unit to maintain temperatures onboard at 66 degrees Fahrenheit, even when cruising in the tropics. It is not uncommon for superyacht designs to cater to the whims of the proprietor, but it is uncommon for the crew to be more than an afterthought. The air conditioning appliance is the first indication that crew comfort is fundamental to this concept.
“Owners are becoming more aware of all aspects of yachting, including the importance of a quality work environment,” says Fotiadis to Robb Report. “I frequently consult with crew to gain an understanding of the challenges they face onboard and to address these issues in my designs.”
Handrails, both indoors and outdoors, that are finished with organic leather or oiled wood (not varnish) to reduce the need to perpetually polish stainless steel or chrome are prime examples. In restrooms, walls, flooring, and furniture, resilient materials such as marble are utilized whenever possible.
Additionally, there is an exposed stern to reduce crew preparation time. “Sometimes, yachts can spend up to an hour and a half preparing a vessel,” he explains.
A large, stepped swim platform prevents exterior paintwork from being scratched during docking, and separate staircases for crew and guests ensure that service areas do not become congested and guests are not disturbed. A spacious crew mess and ample stowage space are also advantageous.
Fotiadis is the managing director of his eponymous firm, T. Fotiadis Design GmbH, which specializes in residential and hospitality projects. After spotting a Magnum 50 powerboat in the harbor of Corfu, he was captivated by superyachts despite having studied automobile design.
“The captain was kind enough to take me for a ride, and when we hit 76 knots, I knew I had to get into yachting,” he explains. “I continue to be friends with the proprietor 15 years later. He paid for fifty percent of my marine design education. He now possesses the 240-foot-long Planet Nine explorer yacht.”
Fotiadis has worked on several yachting projects, including the guest accommodations for the 295-foot Lürssen Norn, which was delivered in May, and the initial interior designs for the Kensho. Both yachts are remarkable creations with extraordinary features, and he applies the same “wow factor” to Stardom.
Due to the yacht’s immense 45.9-foot beam, Stardom has one of the largest two-tiered beach clubs ever seen on a superyacht. The open lower deck aft is paired with two fold-down wings on either side to create an open sea terrace with lounges for convenient access to the water.
On the main deck rearward are outdoor dining and a yellow-painted glass-bottomed pool that casts dappled sunlight on the beach club below. It leads to a formal dining room and six double guest accommodations inside.
“I modeled the lower floors after a luxury skyscraper,” he explains. It is simple to move between floors and to host large groups of visitors.