YSA’s Dornelas and Sigurdsen to head up new sustainability division

In the newly created roles, senior interior architect Dornelas and senior architect & partner Sigurdsen will jointly coordinate YSA Design's efforts to advance sustainability throughout the company and in every aspect of its cruise ship interior design work.

With Dornelas’ input, YSA has increasingly favoured lightweight, durable products manufactured using sustainable methods that can be recycled or disposed of responsibly at the end of their service life. Sigurdsen, meanwhile, specialises in design solutions that can help shipowners to save space and minimise weight on board their vessels for optimal efficiency.

New standards in design processes

‘Having recently stepped down as YSA Design chairman, I have been able to dedicate more of my time to the cutting-edge design and project work for which the company is renowned,’ said Sigurdsen. ‘Now, as heads of the new sustainability division, Fabiana and I will combine our expertise to frame and implement sustainable strategies relating to our materials selection, architectural processes, use of technology, office procedures – even the planning of our social events. I can’t wait to get started.’ 

Added Dornelas, ‘While environmental concerns have been part of the company’s motivation from the beginning, there is always room for improvement. With this new division, we aim to set new standards in the sustainability of our design processes and materials selection as well as in the running of our office. I look forward to working with Trond and the rest of the team towards a greener future for YSA.’

Sustainability efforts

YSA already chooses material based on sustainability factors, as well as style and function. In addition, the company only uses wood from managed forests and, where possible, sources materials locally to minimise transport emissions.

‘The creation of a sustainability department reflects our commitment to achieving the highest environmental standards in our design work as well as in our internal processes,’ said YSA Design chairman, partner and senior architect, Jan Krefting.

The company has proposed advanced eco-friendly solutions such as photovoltaic technology on vessels to capture energy that would otherwise be lost and solar panelling on penthouse suite roofs to encourage premium guests to pay a supplement for greener accommodation. 

A YSA team led by Sigurdsen and Dornelas recently completed extensive design work on board MSC World Europa, which features sophisticated sustainable technologies such as a solid oxide fuel cell demonstrator and a ‘Baltic standard’ advanced wastewater system.