Paolo Allasia, chief yacht designer and co-owner of Italian studio exe design | italia has died aged 48.
Paolo is reported to have drowned while trying to assist a group of swimmers including two of his children off the coast of San Lorenzo al Mare, Italy.
Tributes have been made from across the marine industry including from Next Yacht Group which issued a statement:
“Paolo was an extraordinary talent and a valued partner, someone with whom working was always a genuine pleasure.
“We are heartbroken by news that has left all of us at Next Yacht Group deeply shaken and at a loss for words.
“Our thoughts are with Paolo’s family, his loved ones, and all his colleagues at exe design | italia during this incredibly difficult time.
“We will remember Paolo for his remarkable professionalism and talent, for his dedication, reliability, composure and integrity. But above all, we will remember his kindness.
“A quiet, genuine kindness that distinguished Paolo in every conversation, every meeting and every moment of work we had the privilege of sharing with him. It is perhaps the most precious memory he leaves with us.”
Development of new models
Paolo began his design career studying Transportation Design at the IED, the European Institute of Design, in Turin and in 2003, he began working as an interior designer in the automotive industry for IDeA Institute at the Fiat Style Centre.
He transferred across to the nautical sector joining Azimut-Benetti as a designer, working for the luxury boatbuilder for a stint of more than 13 years, during which time he oversaw the development of new models, from virtual 3D renderings to full-size prototypes.
He launched Allasia Design in 2015, focusing on nautical, automotive and industrial products before joining the Turin-based exe design | italia studio in 2019 where he was a co-owner and chief yacht designer.
During this time he worked with a number of high-profile yacht brands including continuing to work with Azimut Yachts with projects including the ‘Fun Island’ aft on the Seadeck 6 and the hull, deck and flybridge on the Fly 82.
