August 2010- During summer, many people hit the nearest beach in an attempt to beat the heat.

Some walk along the water's edge, soaking their feet. Others dive right in and hurl themselves against the waves. The lucky ones bypass the sand and surf and head to a speedboat.

In September, a very lucky few--22 to be exact--will be able to take to the water in their own limited-edition, Marc Newson-designed speedboat.

"Aquariva by Marc Newson" is a reinterpretation of the 1960s-era luxury speedboat called the Aquarama. For the project, Newson teamed up with Riva, Sarnico, Italy, the maker of the original speedboat, and its official designer, Officina Italiana Design.

"Respecting the DNA of the original project created by Officina Italiana Design was paramount to Newson's design for Aquariva," according to a press release. "With this is mind, some of the changes he makes are truly innovative."

These updates include increased functionality in the speedboat's lounge and dining area, the separation of the driver and passenger seats, the addition of a split cabin door entry and the re-imagining of the transom (at the stern).

"The end product of Newson's design is an updated Riva complete with a bow thruster and state-of-the-art electronic transmission," according to a press release.

Out with the old
Another integral update to the speedboat's design is the use of several new materials. A laminate replaced wood in the deck area and instrument panel, although its appearance mimics wood. Aluminum also found its way into Aquariva.

"To give the exterior a more high-tech look, Newson utilized anodized aluminum, a material not generally associated with boats," according to a press release. "This lightweight material is used in lieu of stainless steel and chrome brass yet remains contextual among Riva's glamour and classical design."

Making an appearance
"Aquariva by Marc Newson" will make its public debut in September at Gagosian Gallery, New York, as part of the exhibition "Marc Newson: Transport."

"Situating [the speedboat] within the breadth and reach of Newson's enduring obsession with human and mechanical locomotion, 'Transport' explores the full range of his vehicle design," according to a press release from the gallery. "Newson approaches design as an experimental exercise in extreme structure and advanced technologies, combined with a highly tactile and exacting exploration of materials, processes and skills."

Other transportation-related projects from Newson include an urban concept car, the Ford 021C, and a "space plane" prototype designed for commercial space tourism.

Newson has found inspiration from post-World War II Italian design since he was a child, which is evident in many of his designs, according to a press release. "I was amazed by the seamless ability of designers and industry to produce every conceivable type of industrial product, from furniture to automobiles," Newson said in a press release. "My own career has undoubtedly been influenced by the Italians' ability to impact so many areas of design. That influence is fully evident in 'Aquariva by Marc Newson,' my first nautical design project for the iconic Italian brand." FFJ