Hermes Waka by Paolo Demel is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2025 A' Design Award Hiriwa in Hoahoa Iata me ngā Waka Moana Competition Category.

HiriwaIata· 2025

Hermes Waka

by Paolo Demel

Client: Paolo Demel

A' Design Award Hiriwa Winner in Iata Category

711,761

Verified Award Winner

Verify Award Status for #164659

Visit Site View at A' Design Award Press Release Award Badge

Colors

The Design

About Hermes Waka

He hoahoa hou tā Hermes, me ngā matapihi taha me ngā rārangi rere māeneene. Ko ngā matapihi taha e hanga ana i tētahi hononga tata ki te taiao karapoti, e whakaata ana i te wai me te marama maori i te awatea, ā, i te pō ka whakamārama ki ngā LED tapa e whakarei ana i te ātārangi. Ko ngā āhua tūhuki e whakatairanga ana i te whai hua, ā, ko te rama māeneene e hanga ana i tētahi āhuatanga mahana, māwhitiwhiti, e whakaū ana i te tūmataiti me te paipai. I te wāhi ihu raro e rua ngā rūma moe kua whakaritea ki ngā moenga mō ngā noho pō. Ka taea te whakatuwhera i te wāhanga runga o te tuanui karāhe mā te pūnaha hiko.

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award Hiriwa

Ko Hermes Waka te toa o te A' Design Award Hiriwa, he whakaaetanga tino whai mana e hoatu ana ki ngā hoahoa taumata teitei rawa, ātaahua me te whakamīharo. Ko ngā toa Hiriwa he mahi tino kanapa, tino auaha e whakaatu ana i te mātanga, te pūmanawa me te mōhio hōhonu o ā rātou kaihoahoa. E tūmanakohia ana ko Hermes Waka he mahi whakamīharo, he tauira, he tino ngaio, he auaha hōhonu. Ko tēnei hoahoa i toa i te Hiriwa he hanganga rongonui, whakamīharotia e whai wāhi ana ki te whakawhānui i ngā rohe o te toi, te pūtaiao, te hoahoa me te hangarau. Ko Hermes Waka he mahi e hae ana te tini, e whakaara ana i ngā hiahia, e kawe mai ana i ngā kare-ā-roto pai, ā, e whakaoho ana i te mīharo.

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

Unique Properties: This yacht embodies futuristic elegance with its sleek, minimalist design. Its glass canopy and aerodynamic lines create a seamless connection between the vessel and its surroundings. The unique blend of luxury and innovation is evident in every detail, from the cutting edge materials to the bold contours that emphasize speed and sophistication. It’s a symbol of refined modernity, perfect for navigating serene waters with style.
Dimensions & Packaging: Product Dimensions: 49 ft (Length) x 14,5 ft (Width) x 9,5 ft (Height)
Tags: Yacht design, sustainable materials, luxury marine innovation, hydrodynamic efficiency, user-centric design, modern craftsmanship, advanced engineering, eco-friendly technology, marine architecture, high-performance vessels
Production Technology: The yacht design was developed using advanced 3D software, allowing for precise modeling and visualization. The exterior features large panoramic windows, enhancing the connection with the surrounding environment while providing ample natural light. We selected lightweight, durable materials such as fiberglass and aluminum to ensure optimal performance and aesthetics. The production process combines CNC machining and handcrafting techniques, allowing for intricate details and high quality finishes, ensuring both elegance and functionality in marine environments.
Design Challenge: The most significant challenge faced during this design activity was integrating sustainability with luxury. Balancing high performance materials with eco friendly options required extensive research and experimentation. Internal factors included navigating historical design conventions in the yacht industry, while external factors involved regulatory compliance and the availability of advanced sustainable materials. Overcoming these obstacles required collaboration with material scientists and adherence to evolving environmental standards, ultimately leading to a more innovative and responsible design.
Research: This mixed methods research explored sustainable materials and efficient design for modern yachts using both qualitative and quantitative data. Surveys, interviews with experts, and hands on prototyping provided insights, with digital modeling tools and workshops involving yacht designers, engineers, and enthusiasts. Findings emphasized user centric design, enhancing comfort and functionality, while promoting sustainability and innovative solutions in the marine industry.
Inspiration: This yacht is a true reflection of modern design, inspired by the world of fashion and the meticulous study of material combinations. The sleek, seamless lines are reminiscent of haute couture, while the use of glass and metal creates a striking contrast, blending luxury with innovation. Each detail is carefully crafted, showcasing a refined balance between aesthetics and functionality, much like a tailored masterpiece.
Project Duration: The project commenced in January 2023 in Milan and concluded in June 2024 in Venice
Operation Flow: The yacht operates through a user friendly interface, allowing for seamless navigation and control of its advanced features. It transforms from docked mode to cruising mode with retractable systems, including the keel and sails for optimal performance. Key interaction points include the helm for steering, touchscreen displays for navigation, and automated systems for managing onboard amenities. Enhanced hydrodynamics reduce drag, improving speed and fuel efficiency, while the innovative design facilitates better weight distribution, resulting in superior stability and comfort during voyages.
Team Members: Designer: Paolo Demel
Image Credits: Image #1 : Paolo Demel (designer), Image #2 : Paolo Demel (designer), Image #3 : Paolo Demel (designer), Image #4 : Paolo Demel (designer), Image #5 : Paolo Demel (designer)