Updating a boat’s interior is a task that deserves careful consideration. As the saying goes, ‘a happy wife, a happy life,’ and the same applies to boaters. Collaborative decision-making, especially when it comes to colors and design choices, is often the key to ensuring satisfaction on the water. In this article, we explore the significance of boat interior updates and provide insights on how to go about them effectively. Whether you’re considering a simple DIY project or a full-scale renovation, our advice, gathered from industry experts, will help you navigate the waters of boat interior design.”
Play It Safe with Colors
The number one piece of advice for boat interior updates is to play it safe with neutral colors. When it comes to choosing colors for your boat’s interior, you can’t go wrong by opting for neutrals, especially if you’re thinking about the resale value down the road. Whites and grays have gained popularity in the last few years, and while they are stylish choices, remember that trends evolve over time.
Mike Ericsson, a seasoned professional in the boat interior design industry, suggests utilizing neutral colors for your furniture. Reserve your personalization and ‘pops’ of color for pillows and accessories. Unlike homes where you have more room to experiment with colors, boats offer limited space, and scale plays a critical role. It’s tempting to incorporate extravagant patterns and fabrics throughout the interior, but Ericsson wisely advises his clients to think about the future. When the day comes to put your boat up for sale, potential buyers often prefer a neutral canvas that they can personalize to their own taste. This approach not only ensures a timeless and attractive interior but can also enhance the boat’s marketability.
By following this advice, you strike a balance between style and pragmatism, ensuring that your boat’s interior remains inviting and appealing, both for your enjoyment and for future resale.
Replacing Bedding
When it comes to boat interiors, bedding is a crucial element that often requires customization. Several companies specialize in marine bedding and offer a wide range of products and expert knowledge. These specialists are an excellent starting point for estimates and advice on boat sheets, bedspreads, and mattresses.
Custom-made bedding is a common choice, ensuring a perfect fit for your boat. However, it’s no secret that “custom” can come with a higher price tag. Here’s an alternative that Mike Ericsson suggests to save both time and money: consider purchasing bedding from your local department store and then have a reputable tailor custom fit it to your boat’s dimensions. Canvas Designers, for instance, offers both custom and tailored options, providing flexibility and cost-saving alternatives. As always, take the time to do your research and find the solution that suits your needs and budget.
Wallpaper
Enhancing your boat’s interior can be as simple as updating the wallpaper. This is particularly effective for older boats with darker teak wood interiors. The goal when using wallpaper is to create a brighter and fresher interior look. You can selectively use wallpaper to highlight teak wood accents, giving a new life to a dated interior.
Today’s commercial wallpapers are versatile and can imitate various textures and patterns. They are also designed to withstand the marine environment. When applying wallpaper in your boat, use a clay-based glue and caulk the edges to prevent any curling.
Carpets
When it comes to refreshing your boat’s interior, the options for carpet are vast. You have the freedom to select a carpet that suits your style and preferences. However, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind.
First and foremost, prioritize stain resistance. On a boat, accidents and spills are a part of life, and foot traffic can quickly make a carpet look worn and dirty. Choose a boat carpet that is not only visually appealing but also equipped with top-of-the-line stain resistance. This will ensure that your carpet retains its beauty and is easy to maintain, even in the face of marine mishaps.
For added protection, consider including a runner. A runner can safeguard your boat’s carpet from the effects of heavy foot traffic and potential damage.
Additionally, if your boat doesn’t already have it, investing in Soundown Carpet Underlayment is a wise choice. This product not only significantly reduces engine room noise, creating a quieter and more comfortable environment, but it also adds a softer feel to the carpet.
Exterior Cushions
Carol Dykes of C-Worthy Custom Yacht Canvas Inc. in Pompano Beach, Florida has been in business for over 30 years and shares some valuable tips on exterior cushions. One of the first things Carol evaluates with her clients is the different amount of cushion to use. “I like to let the customer sample the different density and thickness of the cushion. Depending on the owner’s physique we’ll let them try out different levels and basically fit to size. It’s important to tailor the seating to the owner and how they are going to use the boat,” Dykes says.
We try to make sure what the customer selects will work best for their usage,” Dykes says. “We will often deliver a large sample of fabric to the customer so they can see exactly what they are getting and make sure they really like it. If they choose a dark color fabric, we encourage them to put the material out in the sun and then sit on it to see how hot it might be.”
When it comes to exterior cushions for your boat, several options are available to enhance your comfort and style. Here are some factors to consider:
Lumbar Support and Knee Roll: Your comfort onboard is essential, so think about cushions that offer lumbar support or knee rolls. These features can make a significant difference during long journeys.
Fabric and Stitching: The choice of fabric and the quality of stitching play a crucial role in the durability and aesthetics of your exterior cushions. High-quality materials and craftsmanship ensure long-lasting appeal.
Diamond Quilting: A trend that’s gaining popularity is diamond quilting. This style adds a touch of elegance to your cushions and can create a visually appealing exterior.
Fabric Selection: Your choice of fabric should align with how your boat will be used. Keep in mind that plush fabric can be less durable, so consider the intended purpose. Many boats opt for ultra-plush fabric in areas like the mezzanine, where comfort is a top priority, while using more durable vinyl on the bridge for resilience in different weather conditions.
Ultimately, the decisions you make regarding your boat’s exterior cushions are a matter of personal preference. Consider both comfort and durability for each area of your boat. Whether you prefer the plush feel of certain fabrics or prioritize long-lasting materials, it’s all about tailoring the experience to your needs.
Bridge Curtain Trends
Carol at C-Worthy says the curtains are getting bigger and bigger with less seams. The aesthetic trend is aligning the zippers with the tower legs. When deciding what type of curtain material to use, know how you are going to use them. For example, if you open the enclosure all the time go with a soft glass enclosure versus hard and vice versa. If you were happy with material on a previous boat, go with that.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to boat interior refits, the key to success lies in knowing what you want. Your boat is a canvas for your personal style, and putting your unique touches on it can be a delightful and exciting experience.
Here are some final pieces of advice to keep in mind:
Simplicity is Key: While it’s tempting to go all out, our best advice is to keep it simple. A well-executed, straightforward refit can have a significant impact.
Plan Ahead: Don’t wait until other refit projects are nearly complete before addressing the interior. Having a clear plan from day one can help you manage your budget effectively and avoid unnecessary delays.
Enjoy the Journey: Above all, remember to enjoy your boat. It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of perfection, but the experiences you have on the water will far outweigh any time spent on an elaborate makeover.
By personalizing your boat and making practical, thoughtful decisions about its interior, you’ll create a space that reflects your tastes and enhances your boating adventures. For more tips and inspiration on boat interior updates, explore our other articles.
Canvas Designers, Ph: 561-848-2111
C-Worthy Custom Yacht Canvas, Ph: 954-784-7370
Soundown Carpet Underlayment, Ph: 978-745-0900
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