Benetti 52m SOLAFIDE, a "mission impossible" refit
by Tommaso Spadolini 1 Apr 01:42 AEDT
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"The owner's vision was crystal clear: he had fallen in love with this Benetti but wanted to refresh it both technically and aesthetically— inside and out—while maintaining the classic character of the yacht, but with a contemporary look. Above all, he needed a yacht capable of accommodating his large family." Architect Tommaso Spadolini reflects with a hint of amusement on how this transformation began, turning the beautiful 1994 Benetti 52m, originally named Tommy, into the exclusive, modern SOLAFIDE.
What truly stands out isn't just the final result, but the incredibly tight timeline. Initial contact with the owner began in July 2023, with the first drafts created by August and approved by December. By April 2024, the yacht was back in the water. This ambitious 'tour de force' saw architect Tommaso Spadolini and designer Giulia Grassi working closely with IMS Shipyard, Toulon, to complete every aspect of the refit.
A modern, technologically advanced yacht
The refit led by Tommaso Spadolini focused on modernizing the yacht's exterior and upgrading its technology. The aim was to create a fresh, contemporary look while updating the onboard systems which had naturally become outdated over the course of more than three decades.
"We started with the yacht's original cream color, which we replaced with white, adding dark stripes and stainless-steel grids for a sleeker look," Spadolini recalls. "In particular, we focused on the aft area of the main deck, which was initially designed to house two tenders. We transformed it into a lounge area that can be enjoyed while cruising or at anchor. Hatches were added and we modified the aft railing by opening the two retractable side terraces to improve the sea view. We also created a fully equipped sunbathing area forward of the helm, complete with awnings and a new access point. On the flybridge, the original technical space was transformed into an elegant area with teak flooring and posts for the awnings."
The overhaul of the yacht's two 16-cylinder Deutz engines, each with 2,400 horsepower, was particularly challenging and required their removal. This process necessitated cutting through the living deck and it wasn't until the engines returned from the factory that the deck could be closed and the fitting-out continued. On the structural side, several steel plates on the hull and aluminum panels on the superstructure were replaced. Finally, considering that the sunbathing area must accommodate helicopter landings during navigation, it was necessary to reinforce its entire structure and equip it with movable furniture, along with an 'H' design marked on the teak floor.
The yacht's electrical system was completely overhauled, along with updates to its navigation aids and connectivity systems, bringing them in line with the latest technologies. The two boat davits were kept to allow tenders to be carried during long voyages.
Interior design challenges
For designer Giulia Grassi owner of Supernova Design studio, the challenge was particularly complex, as she had to balance the yacht's rich history with the introduction of modern design elements to meet the owner's exacting demands. The goal was to increase brightness and modernity while also enhancing the yacht's livability—improving upon the classic '90s furniture without losing the yacht's essence.
"The owner requested more seating capacity—both in terms of lounge areas and cabins," explains Giulia Grassi. "We carried out a full transformation of the spaces, optimizing them by reorganizing internal partitions and adding custom-designed furniture, like sofas and pieces that reflected the yacht's overall aesthetic. For example, we removed some built-in furniture from the dining area on the main deck to make room for a table that could comfortably seat the entire family. The outdoor areas were also enhanced with custom cushions and modular furniture which increase comfort and flexibility, particularly in the new aft area of the main deck where the connection to the sea is now more intimate than ever."
On the main deck, most of the furniture was removed and a sense of space was created by eliminating curtains and their bulky fixtures. Seating was expanded and all furniture was redesigned and custom-made, with the exception of the armchairs and chairs. For example, the sofa was designed with built-in storage and the side tables can be transformed into additional seating to accommodate the whole family.
A complete redesign was also carried out in the dining room, by moving the partition aft, more space was created for the table and seating. The floor has been entirely replaced, featuring a section of white onyx beneath the table, complemented by a backlit wall that changes color to suit different moods. Additionally, a clever system of mirrors allows the sea to be visible from every seat at the dining table. The owner's suite remains largely unchanged, preserving its classic charm, yet it has evolved further following a previous pre-refit.
On the upper deck, the use of certain spaces was redefined. The lounge area can now transform into a large cabin that accommodates up to four guests when not in use as an interactive TV room, thanks to the bespoke sofa designed by Supernova Design Studio. Another significant change on this deck is the addition of a new VIP cabin.
The aft open area was upgraded with new furniture and air conditioning. The same treatment was applied to the flybridge, where the aft furniture is now removable to accommodate a helicopter.
"It was a true pleasure modernizing such a beautiful yacht as this Benetti 52m, originally designed by Stefano Natucci, whose work was truly exceptional," concludes Tommaso Spadolini. "Now, with virtually new engines, the yacht can cruise at 21 knots thanks to its narrow, high-performance hull. The maximum beam is 'only' 8.9m, which is quite rare for modern yachts of similar size. We're also proud to have kept the displacement under 500 tons—472 tons, to be precise."