Award-winning designer Patrick Knowles has breathed new life into 44 metre Palmer Johnson superyacht Alta during a 161-day refit at Lauderdale Marine in Fort Lauderdale, Miami.
Alta underwent a number of modifications including the addition of a crew cabin and a complete interior overhaul that has left the yacht with a modern, beach house aesthetic.
The yacht was launched in 2004 to an exterior design by Palmer Johnson with naval architecture by Vripack and interiors courtesy of Patricia Andrews. The yacht's most recent refit saw work carried out across all areas, excluding the galley and pantry.
The owner’s brief centred around a modern interior and a consistent design with a feeling of synergy between spaces. Prior to the refit, the motor yacht had a number of differently styled areas that included a mix of light, satin-finish blonde woods and cream carpeting contrasted against deep cherry wood and dark accents.
With a chic beach house in mind, Knowles used white liberally across the interior of the yacht to keep things fresh and bright. Espresso leather, Caesarstone quartz, polished nickel and linen textures feature elsewhere on board. Carpeting has also been replaced with wide wood planks.
Practical upgrades include the replacement of all plumbing, hardware, lighting, outlets and a full-scale audio-visual upgrade. An additional crew cabin was also added in the bow of the yacht.
The tight 161-day turnaround time was achieved thanks to Knowles’ commitment to using local artisans, vendors and contractors to complete the project.
“You will often hear me say I enjoy a challenge, however the forces of a global pandemic, supply chain issues and an owner with a quick turnaround time for the project made Alta a unique project,” said Patrick Knowles.
“I am particularly proud of the transformation we were able to create on this vessel. Walking into her on day one and again today, she hardly looks like the same yacht. The owner is quite pleased and we know her charter guests will be as well.”
Alta is now chartering in the Bahamas with IYC. She offers accommodation for ten guests in five cabins plus a complement for ten crew.