In this interview, Benoit Mancini, Head of the Outremer design office, takes us behind the scenes of the design of the Outremer 48 catamaran, as well as the collaborative process put in place with the architectural office VPLP Design and design office Franck Darnet Design. Find out how innovation and design come together to create an exceptional catamaran.
When are the architects involved in the project?
The architects are involved right from the start of the project, once the size of the boat and expectations have been defined, as well as the design brief. This initial phase determines the general direction of the project, including the boat’s performance and price range. After this stage, the team of architects begins its work with the first task: brainstorming around the keywords that will guide the entire project.
From this, the architects propose a 2D outline of the boat, showing the distribution of spaces. This phase is known as the preliminary design, where the architects, in collaboration with the designers, sketch out the first profiles and lines of the boat. They begin to give shape to the idea without yet going into the finer details.
The transition to 3D: validating the concept
Once the first draft has been validated, the next step is 3D modeling. This digital model gives a concrete view of the boat, considering essential criteria such as design, weight, price and planning. This phase ensures that all expectations are met before moving on to the next stage. At this stage, it becomes possible to validate whether the direction of the project is correct.
The importance of physical models in the process
Once the digital validation has been completed, the team begins to produce physical mock-ups. These models are not intended to be finalized immediately, but rather to allow an in-depth study of every detail of the boat. Everything is assessed, from the technical systems to the furniture, the fittings and the structure of the boat.
Why are mock-ups essential in the design process?
Mock-ups play a vital role, particularly in validating the ergonomic and practical aspects of the boat. For example, a cockpit is systematically modeled in a mock-up. This enables us to test the ergonomics, circulation and comfort, as well as the maneuverability and accessibility of the different areas of the boat. By building the elements in real life rather than in a model, we can better identify the interactions between the different spaces and the people who will be living on board. It also allows us to show the elements a year before the boat is launched.
Challenges encountered during the design of the Outremer 48
One of the major challenges was to make the boat’s systems even more accessible than in the past. The aim was to create well-defined technical areas where each element has its own dedicated space. This requirement aims to make the boat easier to use and the technical areas more accessible.
The design of the Outremer 48 bears witness to the close and fluid collaboration between VPLP and the Outremer design office. Thanks to this approach, the Outremer 48 has become a catamaran ready to meet the expectations of modern sailors.
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