The exterior of a 34-meter Benetti yacht customized by Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture.
Photo: GIULIANO SARGENTINI
Explore an Artfully Appointed Benetti Yacht by Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture
Principals Enrico Bonetti and Dominic Kozerski customizes the sporty vessel with shapes and materials that complement life on the open seas
The Benetti Oasis 34 yacht customized by Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture’s Enrico Bonetti and Dominic Kozerski. Photo: GIULIANO SARGENTINI
Although the New York firm Bonetti/Kozerski has made its name conceiving minimal yet refined projects for Donna Karan, Audemars Piguet, and Tod’s as well as crisp yet clubby environments for Public and Edition Hotels, the principals Enrico Bonetti and Dominic Kozerski are equally skilled at conjuring the same kinds of airy atmospheres inside yachts, where every inch comes at a premium. Materials are required to withstand harsh conditions at sea while striking the perfect aesthetic balance. Space must be expertly allotted for suites and storage. And an impeccable attention to detail is necessary to execute designs that effortlessly exude luxury and refinement.
One such challenge came when the studio was tasked with customizing a European client’s 34-meter Benetti yacht. The architects cultivated a tranquil atmosphere by limiting their material and color palette, starting near the stern, where an uninterrupted stretch of wood floor runs from the pool surround to the spacious salon, which is outfitted with lily-pad-shaped cocktail tables by Holly Hunt along with custom sofas and dining table. “We tried to keep this very relaxing by using a lot of natural wood,” says Bonetti. “We always like to use some humble material and bring out the beauty of it.”
In the main salon, bespoke sofas upholstered in a Mark Alexander fabric are paired with a trio of Satellite tables by Holly Hunt. A recess lined with caramel-colored suede adds character to the white leather ceiling. Photo: GIULIANO SARGENTINI
That focus on materiality carries through the interiors with a dynamic mix of oak, leather, and stone. Pronounced wood grain on honey-hued paneling gives dimension and visual panache to the salon, where a white leather ceiling is contrasted by a recess lined in a rich caramel-colored suede. Vanities and baths sport creamy slabs of Calacatta marble with subtle veining. “On the main deck, there’s a great flow of space, and the aesthetic is defined by scale, fabrics, and textures,” says Kozerski.
The main bedroom is outfitted with a custom bed, a sofa by Minotti, and a Bonetti/Kozerski desk paired with a Charlotte Perriand chair for Cassina. Photo: GIULIANO SARGENTINI
The ubiquitous use of rounded shapes brings consistency: On the upper deck, a curvy B&B Italia sofa leads to an outdoor dining area outfitted with Minotti chairs around a custom circular table topped with a quartzite slab, while in the main suite, the bespoke bed, dresser, and desk all come with soft edges. “We’re acknowledging the flow of people and the shape of the boat, and manipulating pieces to fit,” Kozerski says of the furniture plan.
“We always like to use some humble material and bring out the beauty of it”
Enrico Bonetti
Yet for all of the Oasis 34’s residential-style comforts, Bonetti and Kozerski were determined to embrace the spirit of yachting, meaning low-lying furnishings that won’t impede 360-degree ocean views, and cozy berths with Pullman beds for welcoming extra guests. “What we try not to do is make it feel like an apartment on the water,” says Bonetti. Instead, they crafted a breathtaking vessel with an elegant environment, perfect for traveling from port to glamorous port or simply staying aboard.
A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2024 Spring Issue under the headline “Making Waves.” Subscribe to the magazine.
Cover: The exterior of a 34-meter Benetti yacht customized by Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture.
Photo: GIULIANO SARGENTINI
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