- Technology and Innovation
The Hemp Solution: The Natural Fiber That Guarantees UV Protection and Tear Resistance
The Material Shift: Performance Meets Sustainability
Modern yacht design faces a core challenge: satisfying the demand for sophisticated, residential-quality interiors while adhering to marine performance standards for durability, UV resistance, and fire safety. Vyva Fabrics, a Dutch wholesaler specializing in high-quality artificial leathers and fabrics, addressed this at METSTRADE 2025. With three decades of experience, Vyva’s continued investment in innovative materials proves that aesthetics and durability can be complementary priorities for shipbuilders and designers.
The Vestige Line: Recycled Elegance
A key feature presented by Vyva was the new VESTIGE line. This upholstery brings the iconic herringbone pattern back to life in a stylish, modern, and notably sustainable way. The material’s backing is made from recycled PET bottles, demonstrating a clear commitment to circular material use. Furthermore, Vestige is phthalate-free, GreenGuard and Gold certified for indoor air quality, and meets strict fire safety standards. Coated with Permablok3®, it is stain-resistant, durable, and easily maintained for both indoor and outdoor use.
Hemp’s Revival: Natural Fiber and Durability
Vyva is looking to nature’s toughest fibers for solutions. The company also presented a hemp upholstery fabric, drawing on a material used for centuries to make sails and cords. Hemp offers extreme durability and resistance to wear and tear. Crucially for marine applications, it filters 95% of UV rays. This natural, fast-growing crop provides a high fiber yield and offers strong tenacity, reinforcing the brand’s belief that environmentally friendly materials can maintain the necessary performance required for demanding marine environments.
The Modern Alternative: Beyond Traditional Vinyl
The company’s materials are designed to offer original, modern-day solutions that benefit clients and employees. The core characteristic of Vyva’s offerings is that they can be cut, stitched, embroidered, welded, and lasered into any shape and form. This versatility empowers architectural firms and shipbuilders to pursue fresh design ideas that traditional, limiting materials might otherwise prohibit. From wall coverings and flooring to furniture upholstery, Vyva’s products are engineered to function across diverse applications.
The Verdict: The Final Word on Interior Style
Vyva Fabrics’ exhibit at METSTRADE confirmed its status as a critical supplier for the maritime industry, offering products that meet technical requirements and aesthetic preferences simultaneously. Their pursuit of cutting-edge trends and sustainable materials—such as recycled PET backing and UV-resistant Hemp—positions them at the forefront of material innovation. For designers and shipyards, Vyva provides the necessary assurance that style and sustainability are not competing objectives, but unified goals.
