on 12 Sep 2026
In Sunseeker's newest sustainability initiative, students have upcycled and reinvented discarded luxury materials from the shipyard.
Sunseeker has partnered with SUEZ and Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) on Designing Textiles for a Zero Waste Future, a project inviting AUB textiles students to reimagine the shipyard’s luxury fabric and leather offcuts through circular design.
Set by SUEZ, the brief challenged students to create pieces that could later be disassembled and repurposed, extending the life of premium materials typically reserved for Sunseeker’s yachts.
Drawing on inspirations ranging from a trip to Japan to a family garden, students explored dyeing, etching, laser cutting and embroidery. Standout concepts included leather water bottle holders designed to evolve into keyrings, wallets or belts, and interactive wall hangings that could be repurposed into upholstery.
At the conclusion of the project, Sunseeker’s management visited AUB to view the final presentations, which showcased how yacht-grade materials could be given new life. The project allowed students to push the boundaries of their creativity, proving that luxury and sustainability can seamlessly coexist.
The project supports Sunseeker’s commitment to zero waste to landfill for its fabric materials. The shipyard already repurposes offcuts internally, using them for reusable bags that transport exterior cushions between manufacturing sites, cutting reliance on single-use plastics.
“Projects like this really do exemplify how small meaningful changes today can build a better tomorrow,” says Sean Dempsey, Sunseeker’s Environmental and Sustainability Manager.
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