The 83-meter HUB superyacht redefines maritime architecture through a focus on structural innovation, sustainable hybrid technology, and a user-centric philosophy.
The 83-meter motor yacht HUB represents a collaborative effort between byJC, Lawson Robb, and Lateral Naval Architects to redefine traditional superyacht architecture. The project moves away from conventional displays of excess, focusing instead on a design philosophy centered on simplicity, informality, and human interaction. Rather than following established stylistic trends, the development of HUB resulted from an analytical approach to structural efficiency and spatial utility, aiming to prioritize the user experience over aesthetic appearances.
The FFB technical platform and structural freedom
The vessel is built upon Lateral’s Free From Bulkheads (FFB) technical platform, which allows watertight bulkheads to terminate at the lower deck. This engineering approach, likened to a skateboard where all essential machinery is contained beneath the deck, removes traditional constraints for the upper areas. Consequently, the unconstrained lower deck is positioned adjacent to the waterline, offering new possibilities for layout innovation and enhancing the connection between the interior and the marine environment.
A holistic design philosophy for shared experience
Architecturally, HUB is designed as a holistic system where the interior and exterior elements maintain a symbiotic relationship. The layout emphasizes fluidity and continuous movement, with spaces transitioning seamlessly to encourage engagement. This contemporary design combines state-of-the-art technology with a quiet luxury aesthetic, ensuring that every element serves a functional purpose within the overall structure.
Spatial organization on the three decks is oriented around daily life rather than rigid planning. The lower deck features a Beach-Cave at water level, integrating a watersports center with social spaces and hull sides that open to form sea-level platforms. The main deck utilizes extensive glazing and informal divisions to avoid the traditional formality of superyacht salons, while the upper deck provides a sky lounge and dining area. Asymmetric layouts are used throughout the vessel to create varied lines of sight and make the large-scale vessel feel more habitable.
Electric hybrid propulsion and environmental efficiency
The yacht’s innovative configuration is facilitated by an all-electric propulsion and energy system. Lateral’s Electric Hybrid architecture uses batteries as the primary energy source for propulsion and hotel loads. Diesel generators are utilized specifically for battery charging and high-speed cruising, selected for efficiency and energy density. This compact arrangement places the primary machinery below the lower deck, enabling silent, vibration-free operation with zero local emissions, thereby establishing a new standard for the onboard experience.
