Craftsmanship at sea
The Perfect Deck
June 2024
In the world of luxury yachts, opulence knows no bounds. From lavish interiors to state-of-the-art technology, no expense is spared to ensure the ultimate in comfort and style. Yet, until the late 1980s, one area remained surprisingly overlooked: the exterior furnishings. Back then, even the most exquisite yachts were often marred by cheap plastic chairs on their decks. Enter Summit Furniture, the visionary company that changed everything.
Founded by William Sieberts in 1979, Summit Furniture quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to quality. Specializing in teak, a wood revered for its durability and natural beauty, Summit was perfectly positioned to revolutionize yacht exteriors.
The turning point came in the late ’80s and early ’90s when the yachting world began to modernize. Yacht owners craved a seamless blend of indoor luxury and outdoor living. The quality and design of Summit’s teak furniture made it an ideal choice for the new wave of yacht design, blending durability with timeless elegance.
One of the earliest yachts to embrace this innovation was the Southern Cross, a stunning vessel that showcased Summit’s furniture. The success of Summit’s pieces on this yacht was a game-changer, proving that high-end teak could withstand the rigors of the sea while providing unmatched elegance.
Recognizing the growing demand for luxurious outdoor yacht furniture, Summit expanded its influence in the yachting industry. Around 1992-1993, a dedicated showroom in the South of France called “Sundeck” exclusively featured Summit’s furniture, further cementing its place in the market.
Summit’s groundbreaking Sundeck Collection, designed by the talented John Munford, was a testament to innovation. Pieces like the Reclining Lounge Chair and the award winning Chaise redefined outdoor comfort and style, making them instant classics among yacht owners.
But Summit didn’t stop there. The ARC Collection, designed by the legendary Andrew Winch, took inspiration from the sea itself. Featuring laminated teak woven into wave like patterns, this collection was a tribute to the beauty and power of the ocean, solidifying Summit’s reputation as an industry leader.
Kipp Stewart’s Picket Collection and Glyn Peter Machin’s Loggia Collection further showcased Summit’s dedication to combining luxury with practicality. These collections became favorites on superyachts around the world, praised for their stylish designs and impeccable craftsmanship.
In 2005, Summit opened a new showroom in Monaco, catering to the ever-growing demand from superyacht designers and owners. Unlike many manufacturers, Summit has always prioritized sustainable practices, never using conflict teak and actively supporting environmentally sound harvesting methods.
Today, Summit Furniture graces the decks of the most prestigious yachts, from the vessels of fashion icons to the superyachts of tech titans. Their pieces are not just furniture but a testament to a legacy of excellence, innovation, and timeless beauty.
Summit’s story is one of vision and perseverance, transforming the outdoor spaces of luxury yachts into oases of elegance and comfort. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, Summit Furniture continues to set the standard in the yachting world, ensuring that every journey is as luxurious as it is unforgettable.
“As a yacht designer with an interest in nomadic and campaign furniture, I brought designs to Summit suitable for the versatile needs on yacht decks. This Sundeck collection had to be stylishly practical, space saving stowable and yet capable of withstanding the harsh marine environment. That was back in 1993 and the Collection was launched by Summit a year later. 30 years on, Sundeck continues to meet the high standards demanded by Super Yachts and I’m proud to see my ever-developing designs on many of today’s yachts and prestigious installations. Sundeck by name and nature.”
– John Munford –
