Our friends at Copenhagen based studio, Norm Architects, have once again demonstrated their craft for interior architecture, minimalist design and attention to detail, through their recent partnership with Michael Schmidt of Y/Yachts. The 20-metre long yacht, named “Bella”, houses an array of tactile surfaces, natural materials and matte finishes to evoke a warm and exclusive feel.

With the intention to “combine comfortable sailing behavior with competitive sailing performance”, the weight of the yacht was reduced to 28.5 tons, while also shortening the carbon fiber mast for stability and increased speed. All unnecessary aspects of the internal construction were revised to accomplish a simpler framework, highlighting the natural curvatures of the yacht.

While the tone-on-tone colors create a subdued ambiance, the use of applied wood veneer, papier stone, black steel hardware, and various woven textiles, harmoniously come together to amplify each other through their various textures. The thoughtful use of warm, built-in lights within the furnishings and ceiling further emphasizes the calm and cozy space.

As security remains a priority onboard, the built-in furniture is designed to resemble unfixed furniture that can be found in one’s home, to ensure that the safety requirements do not conflict with the space’s elegant design.

Technical data:

Length overall 21.68 m
Length waterline 20,35 m
width 5,75 m
Draught (with lift keel) 2.50 – 3.90 m
Displacement 28,9 t
Ballast 9,6 t
Mainsail 174 qm
Jib 123 sqm
Code Zero 350 sqm
Gennaker 550 sqm
Motor 2 x Nanni (59 kW)
Fuel 900 l
Fresh water 900 l
Exterior Design Tripp Design Naval Architecture
Interior Design Norm Architects
Shipyard Michael Schmidt Yachtbau GmbH

Photography: courtesy of Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen and Norm Architects.
Words: Matthias Lund.