International design studio STURGE & TOTH has revealed a new series of superyachts named Gladius.
The series currently comprises a 43 metre, 62 metre and a 72 metre model, all of which share the same aluminium and glass upper deck and sundeck structure fitted with solar panels. The name, Gladius, was chosen to "reflect the elegant curves, sharp edges and sculpted surfaces of ancient swords," according to the studio.
The Gladius series has been presented to the market in collaboration with Y.CO. Max Bulley, from Y.CO’s sales team said: “We’ve noticed a definite demand for yachts that depart from vast multi-deck designs. The Gladius design, with its wide-open spaces and impressive beach club area captures everything the modern superyacht owner is looking for.”
The interior concept is informed by today's new work culture with a focus on "office-related infrastructures", "open plan living areas" and "virtual meeting scenarios". Other design features include a large beach club and lower deck with sections of the hull that fold down.
The larger vessels in the Gladius range include options for a split-deck layout where “loft-like” rooms overlook the bridge deck and main deck and break up the layout. A free-floating bridge connects a spacious master cabin forward to a "grandmaster" office space and, in the centre of the atrium, large installations of fibre optic and glass sculptures combined with brushed natural root woods create a work of art between the decks.
Speaking about the range’s propulsion, designer Ben Julian Toth added: “Because we will be dealing with young owners, alternative, hybrid systems will be important. We are considering diesel-electric, or hydrogen as potentials.” Each yacht in the Gladius range also comes equipped with its own solar panel system on the sundeck, which powers decorative exterior lights.
Ben Julian Toth is the 2012 winner of BOAT International's Young Designer of the Year Award.