Leona

Leona represents a particularly expressive approach to large superyacht interior design, combining a sleek exterior profile with an interior conceived to be theatrical, richly detailed and highly personalised.

H2 Yacht Design was commissioned to develop the interior of the 80-metre Bilgin 263, creating a bold environment built around sophisticated materials, intricate detailing and a deliberately opulent aesthetic. Gloss lacquers, backlit onyx, figurative timbers, gold inlays and luxurious textiles are combined throughout the yacht to create an interior with strong visual character.

As H2 Yacht Design's design director James Bermudez explains: “The interior of Leona uses a bold, opulent palette incorporating a high level of intricate detailing with a heavy use of decorative finishes and interesting textures: gloss lacquers, backlit onyx, figurative timbers, gold inlays and luxurious textiles are combined throughout.” He adds that the owner wanted the design to be bold rather than understated, requiring the studio to “turn up the volume.” — James Bermudez, Design Director, H2 Yacht Design

The interior layout was also substantially differentiated from Leona's sistership Tatiana. Rather than maximising the number of guest cabins, H2 focused on creating larger, more generous accommodation. Two spacious VIP suites occupy the main deck, while two guest cabins are positioned on the lower deck. The reduced cabin count allowed additional space for storage, dressing areas, a larger cinema, gym and sauna.

The owner's deck forms a private retreat, with a large owner's suite, private lounge and access to an exterior pool and forward relaxation area. The yacht accommodates up to 12 guests, with the owner's suite forming part of a five-cabin arrangement designed around space and comfort rather than simply maximising capacity.

Entertainment is a defining element of Leona. An advanced integrated system allows more than 100 iPads to control lighting, audio and visual functions throughout the yacht, while the upper-deck lounge incorporates a ceiling formed from 24 individual custom screens that can transform the atmosphere of the space.

The design continues outdoors, where a large beach club and heated glass-sided plunge pool create a strong connection with the water. A dramatic central staircase links the beach club with the main deck, while the yacht's exterior styling maintains a sleek, dynamic profile rather than the more conventional stepped appearance often associated with large-volume superyachts.

Leona's combination of distinctive architecture, highly customised interiors and exceptional attention to detail earned recognition for both her design and execution, including the Outstanding Exterior Design award at the BOAT Design & Innovation Awards and Motor Yacht Over 60 Metres at the International Yacht & Aviation Awards.

For H2 Yacht Design, Leona demonstrates the studio's ability to move beyond a recognisable house style and respond directly to an owner's personality and ambitions.