Giorgio Armani, the owner of a superyacht, is known for designing clothing that embodies simplicity, elegance, comfort, and utility. His 65-meter Codecasa yacht Maìn follows a similar philosophy, as reported by Howarth.
Thirteen years ago, I had the opportunity to interview Giorgio Armani at the Cannes Film Festival. Our purpose was to attend the premiere of his friend Martin Scorsese’s film, “Gangs of New York.” We spent about an hour engaged in conversation in the designer’s luxurious suite at the Martinez Hotel, which offered a stunning view of the Croisette and the Mediterranean. After our interview, we continued our discussion on the balcony, and I couldn’t help but comment on the breathtaking view.
My Saint-Tropez house offers a similar view,” he remarked, his gaze fixed on the sea. He then expressed his disdain for a massive white metal vessel in the harbor. I inquired if it was his boat, and he confirmed it was. “It’s brand new and measures 150 feet (45.7 meters) in length,” he explained. “I acquired it for Pantelleria.
Giorgio Armani’s preferred holiday home on the small volcanic island of Pantelleria, off the coast of Sicily, is the 49.9-meter motor yacht Mariù, named after his mother. He describes Pantelleria as a place where “the winds are African and the climate is dry,” and it feels so remote that it is dominated by the view of the dazzling deep blue sea, almost like being on a boat, according to Armani.
Giorgio Armani’s hometown was Piacenza in the Milan area. In his youth, he initially pursued a career in medicine but eventually left to work as a window dresser at Milan’s Rinascente department store. He later advanced to become a buyer at the store and eventually a designer for Nino Cerruti. With his hard work and talent, he established himself in the fashion industry and never looked back.
In an industry predominantly characterized by major groupings and corporate ownership, Giorgio Armani stands out as the sole owner of his company, retaining 100% ownership. The latest statistics from his company show record-breaking revenues exceeding €2 billion and an operating profit of over €400 million.
I just aim to create stylish clothing while steering clear of the pitfalls of fleeting trends,” he humbly states. “I believe in a design concept that revolves around simplicity and beauty.
The concept of simplicity, comfort, and practicality is, in his view, what truly makes people appear attractive.
After many years of visiting other people’s homes, the designer made the decision to have one of his own in Cannes. The properties he frequented were either chartered or owned by acquaintances, and they always seemed excessively opulent, adorned with an abundance of white, bright colors, marble, crystal, and mahogany. Being a private individual, he despised attracting attention.
“That’s precisely why I’m not fond of hotels. Besides the decor, big boats tend to feel like floating hotel rooms. My boat seemed like the perfect solution. I cherish my solitude, and Pantelleria is my true home. It’s not just about isolating on islands; I live within my creations. Anything I dislike is promptly removed. Crafting the right environment is essential,” he explained.
