Designer's seasickness: transforming a 1950s yacht into a cozy escape
Markham Roberts, known for his meticulous approach to architectural detail, traded Manhattan apartments for a rocking 1950s yacht, and learned a few hard lessons about luxury living at sea.
A test of skill, and a whole lot of dramamine
The initial climb up the ladder nearly sent the designer tumbling into the Atlantic. “When I started, it was rocking so much, the ladder broke,” Roberts recalls, a wry understatement of the challenges faced when tackling this unconventional project. Initially commissioned by a Manhattan couple for a weekend retreat to Maine, the scope rapidly expanded to include transatlantic voyages to the Bahamas and Florida – a far cry from the classic Mediterranean cruise.
“This isn’t a major seafaring vessel going to Saint-Tropez,” Roberts emphasizes, gesturing around the surprisingly intimate interior. “For me, this yacht is the antithesis – it's not vast, it’s cozy and tight.”
Built in the mid-1950s by the legendary John Trumpy – the same craftsman behind the presidential USS Sequoia – the vessel presented a unique design brief. Roberts and his clients envisioned a home-away-from-home, a space capable of comfortably accommodating six guests and a small crew. The result is a meticulously curated blend of vintage charm and modern functionality, incorporating everything from Soane Britain fabrics to William Morris wallpaper.
“You have to weight things you never imagined weighting,” Roberts observes, recalling the unexpected challenges of interior design on a moving platform. “Sconces shatter if you’re not careful.” The team employed silicone glue and strategically placed felt to secure delicate items, transforming the yacht’s interior into a surprisingly stable environment. Even curtain hangers succumbed to the motion, requiring a generous supply of Dramamine.
Roberts initially considered a nautical model as a centerpiece, but ultimately opted for a meticulously crafted replica of a J.P. Morgan Corsair – a decision that necessitated a custom-built case to prevent rattling and sliding. The final touches included Palissy ware, framed watercolors, and a carefully chosen selection of antique furniture, creating a layered aesthetic that speaks to a lifetime of collecting.
“Everything on the deck is meant for outdoor use – it has to be that way,” he explains, pointing to the robust upholstery and weather-resistant materials. “But even the details, like the welting on those chaise lounges – it’s truly ingenious.”
Despite the logistical hurdles, the yacht ultimately provides a unique and surprisingly comfortable refuge, a testament to Roberts’s adaptability and a reminder that even the most glamorous projects can demand a healthy dose of grit and a considerable amount of seasickness.