In continuation of the insights shared during the panel hosted by Smart Interiors Horizon (SIH), Pressmare sat down with Dr. Julia Riedmeier, founder of CODE\LUXE, to further explore how sustainability and innovation are being redefined within the yachting industry.

While the SIH panel highlighted the growing role of interior materials and design intelligence in shaping more responsible yachts, this conversation expands the discussion by addressing the underlying shift in mindset required across the industry.

PressMare - During the SIH panel, you mentioned that luxury is also a personal concept. How do you define luxury today, and where does sustainability fit into that definition?

Julia Riedmeier - I believe the starting point is always the definition of luxury itself, because depending on how we define it, the answer changes. On a personal level, luxury has no right or wrong definition. It is something that is meaningful, rare, and valuable to an individual.

When we speak about luxury as an industry, however, we traditionally associate it with craftsmanship, rarity, high price points, and strong brand perception. Historically, luxury was also closely linked to excess and exclusion, meaning having more than necessary, and more than others. In that context, luxury and sustainability were almost opposites.

Sustainability originated as an environmental concept of ensuring long-term continuity and responsibility. Today, it encompasses environmental, economic, and social dimensions. And this is where a new definition of luxury must evolve. Contemporary luxury cannot exist without responsibility. A brand cannot operate today without considering its environmental impact, its social footprint, and its long-term economic viability.

Luxury must therefore integrate sustainability, or responsibility, as a new expression of quality, ethics, and innovation. Therefore, clients also pay a premium price.

PM - Do you think the industry is genuinely driving this change, or is it still waiting for consumers to demand it?

JR - It is the responsibility of companies to lead and offer solutions. Sustainability should never be an “either-or” question. It must be a given.

Companies are responsible for advancing products, processes, and sourcing practices. If a brand wants to position itself as a pioneer, this is a powerful way to do so. Innovative and alternative materials on board or innovative hull designs can become new status symbols. As consumers are becoming more informed and more critical, they can proactively request innovations and be part of the change. Yet, companies must guide, educate, and set the standards.

PM - Shared ownership models were also discussed during the panel. Do you see this as a new expression of sustainable luxury?

JR - Absolutely. When we look at utilisation data, many yachts are used for only a small percentage of the time. Sharing ownership can significantly improve resource efficiency while still maintaining access and comfort.

We see similar models in other industries, like real estate or automotive. Luxury does not necessarily need to mean exclusive ownership by one individual. It can mean shared access combined with shared responsibility. This is a very contemporary approach to luxury.

In respect to yachting, of course, there are challenges, especially when it comes to crew dynamics and cultural differences, but these are not impossible. With the right governance and mindset, shared ownership can offer a more sustainable and still highly luxurious experience.

PM - Crew wellbeing came up repeatedly during the SIH discussions. Why do you see this as such a critical sustainability issue?

JR - Because sustainability is not only environmental and has a human value. Crew are often overlooked, especially when it comes to interior design aspects, whether related to crew spaces or passages. The way crew spaces are designed often says a lot about the general philosophy of an owner.

We can detect such a double standard across industries: beautiful client-facing spaces, and neglected back-of-house areas. In yachting, this should not exist. Crew wellbeing directly affects safety, service quality, and the overall onboard experience.

This should be common sense because a yacht that claims to be sustainable must reflect that in every space on board.

PM - From an interior’s perspective, how do materials and layout influence the owner’s experience today?

JR - Interiors influence experience on multiple levels. From a material perspective, certain practices from the past, such as exotic leathers or endangered woods, are no longer acceptable. Today, we have alternative materials that reduce environmental impact while offering exceptional aesthetics and haptics.

It is important to clarify that these are not alternative materials by default. They are luxury and they represent an important step forward.

From a layout perspective, interiors also influence wellbeing, comfort, and health. Lighting, airflow, spatial flow, and even the shape of furniture, like biophilic design principles, affect how people feel on board.

Since interiors shape behaviour and experience, innovation (whether through smart materials, integrated technology, or design that enhances wellbeing) can significantly elevate how owners enjoy their yachts.

PM - Looking specifically at interiors, do you think owners fully understand how interior design choices affect wellbeing and sustainability onboard?

JR - It very much depends on the owner’s mindset and level of awareness. Some owners are sensitive to how interiors influence their experience, while others still see interiors primarily as a visual or decorative layer.

Owners who understand this influence tend to engage much more deeply in the design process and ultimately enjoy their yachts in a more meaningful way.

PM - Smart Interiors Horizon places strong emphasis on the link between interiors, innovation, and responsibility. Where do you see the greatest opportunity for interiors to drive positive change in yachting?

JR - The greatest opportunity lies in seeing interiors as an integrated system that includes materials, haptics, layout, technology, and human experience. All considered together.

Innovation plays a crucial role here. We see exciting developments in alternative materials, smart surfaces, and solutions that enhance functionality without compromising aesthetics.

Interiors have the power to connect luxury and responsibility in a very tangible way. When done well, they become a clear expression of contemporary luxury.

Rebecca Gabbi