THE WORLD’S LEADING
DESIGN NAMES
2018
what grounds you
Living in the sky Feeling at home while travelling: Exclusive cabin interiors for helicopters and jets
business-jets.ruag.com
Designs change before your eyes
CONTENTS
11
EDITORIAL
12
LUXURY PROJECTS DESIGN STUDIO
18 UNIQUE AIRCRAFT
www.ilorom.com +1 617.855.5078
Luxury Textiles
22
WINCH DESIGN
26
GARRONI DESIGN
30
SAARANHA & VASCONCELOS
34
CRISTIANO GATTO DESIGN TEAM
38
BOMBARDIER BUSINESS AIRCRAFT
42
MARCH & WHITE
1.800.951.spas (7727) 720.864.9115 fax 866.605.2358 www.diamondspas.com info@diamondspas.com
P h o t o g r a p he r : Francois Rigaud
Diamond Spas Custom Stainless Steel & Copper Aquatic Products Residential Commercial Hospitality Ideal for Mega Yacht Design & Construction Specializing in Rooftop Pool & Spa Installations Spas Swim Spas Swimming Pools Glass-Walled Pools & Spas Cold Plunge Pools Water Features Luxury Custom Indoor & Outdoor Bath Fixtures Built to Client Specifications Sustainable Durable Sophisticated
CONTENTS Juliette's Chelsea-based architectural interior design consultancy has established a reputation for creating elegant and sophisticated interiors which blend the classic with the contemporary. Whether co-ordinating a building site, managing an office of designers, liaising with leading architects and surveyors or managing clients property portfolios, Juliette's efficiency and attention to detail has been a driving force in her 25 year career as an architectural interior designer.
0207 352 1553
office@juliettebyrne.com
www.juliettebyrne.com
46
TEXTRON AVIATION
50
DSIGN VERTTI KIVI & CO
54 GIUSEPPINA ARENA ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN 58
MICHELA REVERBERI STUDIO
62
JET AVIATION
66
EMBRAER EXECUTIVE JETS
70
ZUCCON INTERNATIONAL PROJECT
74
SEDLMAYER ASSOCIATES PTY LTD
78
HAPPY DESIGN STUDIO
82
MARTIN KEMP DESIGN
86
STEPHENS WARING YACHT DESIGN
90
CARKEEK DESIGN PARTNERS
94
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SUBSCRIBE Annual subscriptions are available in the UK for ÂŁ35, and can be ordered by telephoning 01244 346 347. International subscriptions vary by country please either call +44 1244 346 347 or email: subscriptions@design-et-al.co.uk stating your full address for a subscription quote. If you would like further information regarding online subscriptions/ pricing please contact us using the above telephone number. Design et al ISSN 1750-8851
STAFF Publisher Joanne Beedles Senior Editorial Researcher Isobella Lichfield Digital Publisher Richard Stockton Publishing Manager - Luxe Christopher Aitken Client Account Manager Ryan Boocock Client Account Manager Jessica Howarth Client Account Manager Morgan Jones Design Awards Manager Glenn Hughes Awards Team Leader Anna Jackson Awards Coordinator Anna Clapson Web Development Craig Culbert Graphic Designer Matthew Milner Public Relations Consultant Catherine Lyne Editorial Manager Natalie Cowley Editorial Assistant Emma Pritchett Accounts Paul Jones
D E S I G N CE NTR E , CH E L S E A HAR BO U R SAM U E L- H E ATH .CO.U K MAD E I N E N G L AN D
SUMARINEYAT.COM.TR
For the second year now, we are proud to bring you this annual issue of The World’s Leading Design Names specifically for yacht and aviation designers. Originally, designers from these sectors were included in the annual design et al publication of the same name, however as our markets have grown and the demand to work increasingly with these specialists has expanded so too has their significance in the global design industry. It is never an easy task selecting just 20 design professionals from many hundreds of possible names,
however after careful consideration we have come up with the twenty names we feel are shaping our future, from a design perspective in both marine and aviation design. Their work is as diverse a mix as it is forwardthinking and unique. In this issue we discuss their ideals and ideas for the future, their design philosophies, predictions and learn a little more about the individuals who are shaping our future. Best wishes Joanne
Luxe et al 11
LAURA POMPONI LUXURY PROJECTS DESIGN STUDIO
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THE OVERALL PHILOSOPHY OF THE LUXURY PROJECTS TEAM AIMS TO PROVIDE CLIENTS WITH AN ENRICHMENT OF THEIR DAILY LIFE EXTENDING THROUGH TO THEIR YACHTING EXPERIENCE.
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The World’s Leading Design Names 13
In 2008 after a significant experience working on superyahct projects at a reputable Shipyard, Laura Pomponi founded Luxury Projects (LP) Architecture and Design Studio. Luxury Projects guides clients from the initial concept design and first sketch, all the way to the selection of the final touch accessories and art works.
design, or completely redesign the yacht’s interior, providing a second life to the entire ship. Working with a team of highly skilled craftsman and using our extensive expertise and experience from lighting and super yacht design through to artwork selection and styling, gives Luxury Projects that unmistakable edge as an industry leader.
Please tell us a little about your background…
Included in Luxury Projects design portfolio, is the ability to completely design and furnished Villas, Hotels, Spas and Executive Offices. These projects are executed with the same high standards and creative approach to design and luxury that the LP team apply to super yachts.
I was born in Rome but grew up in Ancona where I studied at the Polytechnic University for a degree in Engineering. After my graduation, my career started with working for the large Italian tech company: Telecom Italia Mobiles. It needs no explanation that this involved lots of travelling and international business. However, the ability to really understand the base elements of interior design, and a deep interest in colours, shapes, art and architecture was always simmering beneath the surface. I grew up surrounded by fashion designers (including my grandmother). I chose to study engineering because I am passionate about maths and complicated equations. What truly fascinates me about the construction of a yacht is the intricacy of the process. It is like a DNA spiral, and I love solving these complex issues. So, I started to work in the Super Yacht Industry in 2002 and after experience in project management, it was several years later, on a trip to Doha, when I decided to put the entrepreneurial ambitions I had since childhood, into action. Strong passion for art and design, my love for material research and finding innovative applications made me to start my own business. Luxury Projects Design Studio and Atelier, headquartered in Ancona was founded in 2008. Now, several years down the line, we are challenged with complicated projects and experiencing new cultures, both the ingredients for creating innovative and amazing interiors. Tell us about your company and what you do… The overall philosophy of the Luxury Projects team aims to provide clients with an enrichment of their daily life extending through to their yachting experience. Luxury Projects dedicated team of Architects, Interior & Lighting Designers, Engineers and Naval Architects, who continuously seek improvement at every step, manages all aspects of the design process, combining technical and design competences. We can create the perfect design for your new yacht, give your present yacht a fresh new look with the latest in interior
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Luxury Projects’ in depth knowledge of project management ensures all projects are delivered within a timely and costly manner, within each client’s needs, style and budget. All aspects of the interior design are covered. From room functionality and ergonomics, to perfect flow moving through the spaces, décor finishing details, to detailed bespoke furniture. All perfectly complemented/enhanced by a flawless lighting design. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. 2017 has been really a challenging year in terms of new design concepts developed by Luxury Projects Studio. Starting from the exterior lines for the full custom 74mt DagaYacht, based on an Amels platform and penciled by our Architect Aldo Viani. MY Daga has a sleek profile, large windows slash it along its entire length and sharpen the dynamic look of a yacht lending generous aft volumes and balconies on all decks. New Yacht Interiors with innovative elements, such as the ceilings, lights and walls, all being used to enhance the living space with elegant character. The spaces themselves are easy to personalise with free-standing and custom furnishings that reflect the tastes of different owners. So versatility is the byword with lighting design a strong factor in enhancing the effect through arty, textured backlit walls which can also be combined with different materials. Different Yacht Refits projects challenging LP studio on different interior styles and materials.
Do you have any upcoming projects that you are able and willing to talk about? We are currently working on new amazing contemporary warm interiors for a 70mt vessel under construction, where space, convertible areas, elements of surprise and details are the key words of the project from scratch. New architectural features creating welcoming atmospheres, use of warm colours, special custom-made light features and bespoken furniture in a new big private residential project in Middle East. Then projects such as private residences & hotels in Budapest, Shangai, Kuala Lampur; floating houses & hotel suites and new Superyacht interiors under development from 42m to 90m. What have been your professional highlights from 2017? We are really proud of a year of recognitions in 2017, receiving three Awards at the International Yacht and Aviation Awards. • • •
Best Light Design Project with MY Destiny Best Deck Design with MY Destiny Best Master Cabin with MY NERO
Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. New liquid metals for surfaces of any shape, new-engineered woods (helping also the idea of more “green” projects!) and obviously LED lighting technology, AV and IT, maybe even replacing luxury panelling by LED TV or transparent O-LED panels, creating any background or theme. What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come? Seems or feels like the market is somewhat shrinking, though some yards are doing well others face difficulties, looks like Sailing yachts have become less popular while Explorer vessels momentarily are a hype. Where to focus on I guess is the biggest challenge we all face in this industry. New generation owners coming into the high-end luxury “toys” market; their new approach to yachts and business jets is foreseen by my studio simply as a new extra challenge.
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MY Destiny - BEST LIGHTING DESIGN MY Nero - BEST MASTER CABIN MY Destiny - BEST DECK DESIGN
Ya c h t s & P r i v a t e J e t s |
Hotels & SPAs
MY Destiny
DISCOVER
OUR
NEW
WEBSITE
www.luxury-projects.com
Luxury Villas & Penthouses | Life Style
MY Nero
WARJA BORGES UNIQUE AIRCRAFT
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INFLUENCED BY TRADITION AND MODERNITY MY STYLE CAREFULLY BLENDS THE CUSTOMER´S TASTE INTO THE CABIN CONFIGURATION TO CREATE A TIMELESS INTERIOR THAT WORKS SEAMLESSLY FOR PERSONAL AND BUSINESS USE. COURTESY OF BBJ
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Since the year 2000 Warja Borges has been dedicated with empathy, distinguished taste and technical know-how to create beautiful aircraft interiors. Warja has worked on many different aircraft types and projects sized up to the 747-400 and a concept for an A380 VIP interior. Please tell us a little about your background… Born and grown up in Munich, I love to travel, to learn about foreign cultures, lifestyle and history. Designs and colors from all over the world inspire me. Since I was young I was always creative in many ways which logically lead to the decision to study design. In Germany, Interior Architecture is an engineering study combined with design elements. This background fits very good with the VIP aviation industry which is as well a combination of engineering and design. After 4 years of studying interior architecture and some years of practice creating interiors for residences and offices I got the chance to work with Reiner Heim Aircraft Interior Design, based in Munich. For ten years I was part of his team designing bespoke interiors for various customers and aircraft types in cooperation with well-known completion center. After many fruitful years gaining experiencing with Reiner Heim I decided to raise my own business and become an independent designer. Since 2010 Unique Aircraft has been designing high-end VIP aircraft interiors for clients and aviation facilities worldwide. Tell us about your company and what you do…
business flights for 2 – 10 passengers and crew (when the atmosphere on board is very important for your wellbeing) and to design a look representing a high-class VIP interior for the BBJ demonstrator. The goal was to combine both under one roof. Thinking of passengers traveling to important meetings and needing to concentrate and get prepared or after a stressful day needing to relax or recharge, I wanted to create a surrounding giving energy and tranquility - not bothering with disharmony but supporting with serenity. With the first step on board I wanted those feelings to be present. Therefore, I put a lot of thought into the front area to create an open and inviting space, a real ‘welcome on board’ but also integrating all required functionalities. With all design elements like shapes, patterns, materials, colors and details used in repeat through the cabin I created a “one piece” clean design. One’s eyes shouldn’t get caught on any interruption/ disharmony/ mismatch but pleasantly wander around guided by the “endless” metal trims embracing the cabin volume. This core design idea isn’t really compliant with a “glamorous” touch one would maybe expect in a VIP interior of a demonstrator. But to accomplish this aspect we focused on sophisticated design details, such as the seat backrest and armrest design, floor lamps, magnetic cup-holders, hidden details and special features … to show the high-end quality of a bespoke VIP interior deviating from a normal “business jet”. The combination of these two aspects resulted in a cabin interior of “elegant simplicity”.
We design ‘unique’ aircraft cabins with a fresh, innovative, luxurious, individual, timeless and elegant spirit. With a team of professionals, we create full cabin interiors as well as single components of design packages, for example, layout development, elevation drawings, material / colour concepts, decorative parts, ornamental details, carpet designs and exterior liveries for all aircraft types.
What would you name as the main factor that separates you as a designer/company from your peers?
Our underlying aim and passion is to make visions come true and create beautiful aircraft interior cabins for ones´ well-being and comfort on board. With our expertise we guarantee full satisfaction regarding the functionality and durability under the respect of all technical requirements and aircraft industry regulations. We supervise our projects until the aircraft delivery to ensure our client´s satisfaction. A close cooperation with the completion centre and the customer´s representative is one key of our success. Our performance is based on innovation and intimate knowledge of aeronautical design. With our high-quality solutions and professional approach our design team develops and finalises all projects through to the finest details. This is a safe guarantee for a truly professional attendance and realisation of each project.
You must work with such a wide array of key suppliers in your field; do you have any favourite materials and products that you prefer to work with?
Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. My most important project completed in Spring 2017 was the BBJ Demonstrator. The brief for this aircraft was to create a comfortable cabin for long-distance
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There aren´t many designers specialised on VIP aviation and each of us has a unique talent. Being a business woman in an industry mainly occupied by men might give me the opportunity to have a different perspective and approach.
There are no preferences I just love different materials; every material has its beauty and sometimes inspire the entire interior look. But it is not only the look that is important, the touch can influence the passenger’s wellbeing on board so much. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. OLED monitors will have a big impact on the aviation interior design. Always limited in space this technology will give so much more options to place the monitor in the cabin. On board connectivity has become very important in our lifestyle nowadays. The technology available in this sector is growing fast and as a designer the challenge is to implement it into the design nicely.
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ANDREW WINCH WINCH DESIGN
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CELEBRATING THIRTY-ONE YEARS IN BUSINESS, I HAVE ESTABLISHED AN UNRIVALLED REPUTATION WITHIN THE INDUSTRY.
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Winch Design is a leading International design studio, with a focus on extremely high-end bespoke, dynamic design for a worldwide client base specialising in the exterior and interior design of yachts, aircraft and architecture. Over the years, Winch Design has established itself as the go-to design studio for individuals who expect not only the highest levels of design excellence but also a totally bespoke, integrated approach, individually tailored to their lifestyle.
Do you have any upcoming projects that, if able, you are willing to talk about?
Please tell us a little about your background…
One: Push the design and technical boundaries Two: Listen to what your clients want and their dreams Three: Inspiring the team to excel
Having started the company in 1986 with my wife Jane, I have successfully nurtured and developed the business over the last 30 years. Recognised as one of the world’s leading superyacht designers, my vision, unerring attention to detail and quest to push design and technical boundaries has successfully taken the business into the wider areas of aviation, architecture and interior design. Tell us about your company and what you do… The team comprises of over seventy-five designers, naval architects, 3D visualizers, merchandisers and support staff whose holistic approach and creative ingenuity drive the business forward. Having scoured the globe to find highly skilled artisans, the rarest materials and the finest elements of design, the end result is always unique and most certainly breath-taking. Unlike many design studios, Winch Design will not only create both the exterior and interior of a project but will also design and source the items housed within – down to the linen, glassware, artwork, carpets and wall coverings. This really does allow clients to know that their environment is totally unique, from initial concept to the smallest detail, and this originality, combined with a turn-key approach is increasingly in demand. Celebrating thirty-one years in business, I have established an unrivalled reputation within the industry. The ethos of the company is based on trust, respect and an extremely strong work ethic. This, combined with an unerring sense of great design and a singular attention to detail, is what my reputation has been built upon and is still at the heart of the business. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. I was very proud to see that we were by far the leading designer of both delivered WD yachts and future projects at Monaco Yacht Show this year. WD Interior designed M/Y New Secret, M/Y Cloud 9 and WD Exterior and Interior designed M/Y Areti and the future projects were Nobiskrug, Wally and Heesen. We are heading down the path of continued excellence in creative design.
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We have lots of exciting projects going on in all three departments which we will be able to talk about further in 2018. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards as we move into 2018?
What would you name as the main factor that separates you as a designer/company from your peers? We are a team of talented individuals who continue to inspire me every day. One of the most important qualities is that we listen to our clients and design their dreams. We do not have an in-house style. You must work with such a wide array of key suppliers in your field; do you have any favourite materials and products that you prefer to work with? We work with some incredible materials and products with some of our most valued suppliers. From a traditional interior such as Areti to a contemporary interior such as Cloud 9, I love the different textures materials create. Cloud 9 interior was created based around the senses and for the family so for example the entrance includes a bespoke teak and holly design with wave details carved into it to give a sense of relaxation. What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come? With the changing attitude towards the environment and ever-evolving technology, eco-friendly superyachts and aircraft will have to be designed. We will face the challenge of minimising their environmental impact. And now a little about you: The car you drive: Bentley Your favourite restaurant: Lucio’s restaurant The place that gives you inspiration: Being by or on the water. Sailing my Jeanneau 64 around the Balearic Islands. Ideal holiday destination: As a keen advocate of the Blue Marine Foundation, sailing around marine protected areas such as the Ascension Islands is such an experience.
VITTORIO GARRONI CARBONARA GARRONI DESIGN
CAMILLO GARRONI CARBONARA GARRONI DESIGN
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EACH PROJECT HAS ITS OWN STORY! THERE IS NO LONGER A SINGLE DESIGN FLOW; EACH BRAND TRIES TO FIND ITS OWN IDENTITY.
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Garroni Design is a comprehensive team of designers, architects and engineers, consultants for many internationally renowned firms, either shipping, boating, automotive, real estate or industrial entrepreneurs. Please tell us a little about your background…
Have you noticed any design trends or influences currently that you think are interesting? Each project has its own story! There is no longer a single design flow; each brand tries to find its own identity.
I’m a architect and designer with 25 years of experience on industrial production yachts.
Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years.
Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes.
Innovative technologies are developed from each brand on the basis of their production methodology, the designer has to adapt to this by bringing new ideas to evolve the product.
We are continuing to develop Prestige, Leader and NC ranges for Jeanneau. The design guide elements of these ranges are specific to the DNA of the brand, brightness, living volume, luxurious and contemporary design.
What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come?
Do you have any upcoming projects that, if able, you are willing to talk about? LeYacht cruises is a Monaco-based maritime enterprise for cruise activities promotion and development on small vessels or large craft that combine technical and functional vessels with the refined and exclusive hospitality of private yachts. The implementation of this project is carried out through a functional system composed by: • •
LeLodge an operational and hospitality base, possibly floating; LeYacht or Cruise Yachts, a set or a fleet of identical yachts that navigate individually, with LeLodge as their terminal where take turns, at the beginning/end of cruise, one or two per day.
Our goal is to transform dreams into reality by respecting the constraints that industrial production imposes on us. Do you have any plans or news that you would like to share with the industry for 2018? Actually we have a lot of ongoing projects but unfortunately I can’t share with you any details. I can only say that from my point of view all the projects in which I’m involved are an inspiration to me. And now a little about you: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have been? Probably a chef, because also in this case the creativity is one of the most important aspects. A chef works in a team and has a strong relationship with people. A lot of similarities with a designer indeed.
What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards as we move into 2018?
The car you drive: During the week an electric one because in my opinion it’s time for thinking differently.
One: Innovation Two: Creativity Three: Quality
Your favourite restaurant: My boat at anchor in a beautiful bay.
What would you name as the main factor that separates you as a designer/company from your peers? My team and I are able to develop full projects from a design but also from a technical perspective. We are strictly connected to our partners in order to help them in all the project phases. Having a deep understanding and knowledge of the industrial requirements is not necessary for a design company. This makes us able to collaborate with a resource & development department. Our expertise has been developed during the last thirty years and led us to be the principal reference for partners who work with us. You must work with such a wide array of key suppliers in your field; do you have any favourite materials and products that you prefer to work with? All of our clients ask us to develop innovative products, our challenge is to interpret their desires and transform them into unique objects that reflect the customer’s dreams.
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The place that gives you inspiration: Paris and New York. Ideal holiday destination: No matter about the destination, but it has to be on a boat. The perfect drink: Wine. I’m an Italian guy and wine is important in my culture. Gaya is one of my favourite brand. Final thoughts or words of wisdom: Nothing changes unless you change anything.
DESIGNER OF THE YEAR 2016
VIA CORSICA 13- 16128 GENOVA - ITALY - +39 010 583427
WWW.GARRONIDESIGN.COM
INFO @GARRONI.IT
CARMO ARANHA & ROSÁRIO TELLO SAARANHA & VASCONCELOS
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THE AMBIANCES WE CREATE ARE ALWAYS MARKED BY OUR COMMANDMENTS, ONE OF WHICH IS MIXTURE.
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1985 was the year Lisbon saw the creation of Saaranha & Vasconcelos, initially geared towards designing decorative and lifestyle pieces. Thanks to the bold, creative solutions of the team led by the firm’s founding partners, Carmo Aranha and Rosário Tello, the studio received its first architecture and interior design projects, which immediately became its main activity. Not only has SA&V worked for various companies and institutions, but it has also gained experience in the residential area, where it has created ambiences for clients with varying ages and lifestyles.
Do you have any upcoming projects that, if able, you are willing to talk about?
Please tell us a little about your background…
What would you name as the main factor that separates you as a designer/company from your peers?
Carmo Aranha: I was born in Oporto, a city I traded for Lisbon as a child, and where I still live today. I’d only leave it for Rome. I like to form teams and to plan and organise their work, and that’s why I firmly believe in loyalty and sharing. As one of the founding partners of the architecture and interior design studio Saaranha & Vasconcelos, I’ve been in the business for 33 years. Prior to that, I worked in the insurance industry, where I managed an insurance broker’s for several years. Along with managing the studio, I perform other key roles in the company: MKT/Communication and the International Department, Human Resources and helping in the decision-making processes of the project department. I love learning in order to improve as each day goes by, opening up a world of opportunities for self-fulfilment at work and as a person. But always behind the scenes, which is where the energy works to create the end product. Rosário Tello: I was born in Lisbon and still live in the same city. From an early age, I always knew I wanted to do lots of things; for myself and for other people. I became a very active person, able to multi-task. Passionate about life, I commit myself wholeheartedly to everything that makes me dream. And my determination means I achieve my dreams. Even if I lose sleep to do so. “Impossible doesn’t exist,” seems to be one of my mottos when looking for something different. Despite my great passion for architecture, fate and the fact I belonged to a family of engineers, willed me into getting a degree in civil engineering at the IST in Lisbon, and I spent 20 years as a lecturer in Structures. Nevertheless, my initial passion ended up coming out on top: Co-founder of the architecture and interior design studio Saaranha & Vasconcelos in 1995, for the first few years, I combined my other work with that of designer. First, by designing home and lifestyle objects, then by plunging into architecture and interior design. I am responsible for the entire project department, though I also plays an active part in the decisions that are reflected in the management of company and brand. My obsession to detail and beauty is counterbalanced by another: technical support. The thought that “Things have to work well,” reveals my more rational side, that of engineer.
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Alongside our Portuguese clients, we are working on several international residential projects and also have some foreign clients who approach the studio to undertake projects in Portugal because they recognise our skills in understanding and interpreting various cultures and due to the work, it’s already done outside Portugal. Examples of this are Russian, Angolan and French clients.
SA&V is currently considered a top brand in the area of architecture and interior design, synonymous with creativity, exclusivity, sophistication, contemporaneity and a strong connection to art. Tailor-made projects, which focus on exceeding and personalising the dreams of those who seek them out, play a decisive role in placing the brand at the level it has achieved today. Attention to detail makes it an exemplary and easily identifiable brand. SA&V is clearly a brand that’s ready for what the future has in store. Its commitment to the projects and the clients is reflected in the newest brand statement: Nothing Less. The uniqueness of Saaranha & Vasconcelos brand is the result of the inspiration of the partners, world travellers and discoverers of cultures, spaces and artists who combine details being able to create a unique essence in each project. You must work with such a wide array of key suppliers in your field; do you have any favourite materials and products that you prefer to work with? The ambiances we create are always marked by our commandments, one of which is Mixture. SA&V style is well recognised by the way we combine and join textures, patterns, materials and even objects that would appear unlikely to be together. We like, for example, to quilt an XVIII Century armchair with cow, zebra or goat hide. Whether it’s a mix of styles, colours, shapes, textures or patterns, mixture it’s always enriching. Have you noticed any design trends or influences currently that you think are interesting? A fundamental tool that underpins the brand and each one of our projects are the 10 Commandments (Layout; Theme; Colour; Light; Proportion; Comfort; Repetition; Mixture; Detail; Art and Ambience). These act as guidelines. However, rather than acting as rigid rules, they serve as solid pillars that support the brand. This is how they’ve been built and developed over the last 33 years. The Commandments sustain the brand’s creativity. They are also one of its sources of inspiration.
Rua Vale Formoso, 45 1950-279 Lisboa, Portugal www.saaranhavasconcelos.pt +351 218 453 070
CRISTIANO GATTO CRISTIANO GATTO DESIGN TEAM
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OUR WORK IS ROOTED IN RESEARCH AND OPEN DIALOGUE WITH OUR CLIENTS.
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Yacht design is at the forefront of what Cristiano Gatto Design Team practice but by virtue of their experience, and of Cristiano Gatto’s as a sculptor, they approach each and every project as a sculpture with the overall design in mind refining it to the smallest detail. Please tell us a little about your background… I loved figurative arts since the day I picked up my first pencil. As I grew up drawing, doodling and exploring materials and shapes became my favourite pastime. Over the years, I became acutely conscious that I wanted to pursue a creative career. In 1992, after graduating at the School of Fine Arts in Venice, with a specialiSation in Sculpture, I started investigating the relationship between Industrial Design and Contemporary Art. In early 1990s I started working as project Manager at the design studio Nuvolari Lenard. In 1996 I was promoted to Head of the Interior Design Department and, afterwards, the studio’s general manager. Alongside my activity as a designer, I cultivated my passion for sculpture and many of my statues in the finest Carrara marble were exhibited in art galleries all over Europe. By the end of 2001 I felt that the time had come to make a further step, so I founded my own company, Cristiano Gatto Design based in Preganziol, at a stone throw from Venice. Tell us about your company and what you do… Yacht design is at the forefront of what we do but architecture and interiors, furniture and industrial design, project management are gaining an increasing importance in our portfolio of projects. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. We are currently very busy with a series of challenging projects. Our collaboration with Heesen Yachts has been growing steadily in these last years and we designed very interesting interiors such as Crazy Me, Amore Mio, Home and many more are in progress. We are also developing important projects in both residential and hospitality areas, in Europe and USA. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards as we move into 2018? One: Reliability. Two: Coherence. Three: Passion for beauty. What would you name as the main factor that separates you as a designer/company from your peers? I think that we are well versed in taking a good idea and helping turn it into a cohesive entity, from creative concept through to execution. Our work is rooted in research and open dialogue with our clients. I delight myself in finding
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imaginative solutions for complex problems and moving ideas from good to great. Every project is approached and communicated creatively and, of course, designed with great care. Usually we develop strong relationships with our clients to get the best out of each project. I do believe that a good designer can realise their visions while adding value to their yacht, residence, etc. Constraints are always explored in a creative way, resulting in work that is memorable and meaningful, and improves our client’s way of life. Overall, my aim is to create great experiences and real connections by means of design. What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come? We are in a sort of middle age, the technology and the market have changed enormously in recent years but the rules have not been updated and coordinated consequently, yet. I dream that the rules in the future will help us design and produce more secure and efficient vessels without canceling the enormous difference that exist in reality between a cruise ship and a MegaYacht. And now a little about you: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have been? A tavern innkeeper at Hosteria del Gatto The car you drive: Maserati Ghibli Your favourite restaurant: Osteria al Cason, Venice countryside The place that gives you inspiration: Every single stone in Venice. Ideal holiday destination: Mountains, Catinaccio d’Antermoia Seaside, Murtoli, Corsica The perfect drink: Italian wines! Prosecco, Amarone, vintage Tunina, just to name the first wines that come to my mind… Final thoughts or words of wisdom: We design with passion, we delivery with pride, we build up friendships, because we really love what we do … daily!
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TIMOTHY FAGAN BOMBARDIER BUSINESS AIRCRAFT
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WE ARE UNIFYING THE CABIN EXPERIENCE OF OUR ENTIRE GLOBAL FAMILY.
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In 1942, Joseph Armand Bombardier created the snow mobile and started a company where entrepreneurial thinking, taking calculated risks and building exceptional products were at the core of everything it did. In 1986, these values led to Bombardier’s venture into aerospace. Over the next 13 years, Bombardier acquired established plane-makers, building the foundation for what the company is today, an industry leading aircraft manufacturer with the widest portfolio of business jets. Please tell us a little about your background… I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design from Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada. My initial professional design projects focused on technology, consumer products and user-interface design - back in the early days of the internet. I first joined the aerospace field working in commercial aircraft – my focus was on the design of modular aircraft interior systems, which created a strong technical base, and which remains very important in my current work. I became interested in business aviation because of both the luxury and personalisation elements – each aircraft being tailored to a specific customer’s need and taste. I worked on special projects -like flight deck design - before shifting to business jet completions as a Designer and Customer Account Manager - working directly with aircraft owners to define the completion of their particular aircraft. The work was extremely valuable towards understanding our customers’ needs, and the wide variety of ways they use our aircraft to advance their business and personal endeavours. Today, my team focuses on product design and development, leading Bombardier Business Aircraft’s Industrial Design team to define complete aircraft interior systems for our entire aircraft family. Tell us about your company and what you do… I lead the Industrial Design team within Bombardier Business Aircraft – a leading manufacturer of business aircraft with the Learjet, Challenger and Global aircraft families. We are responsible for designing and defining all elements that relate to the user experience on-board the aircraft. This includes cabin layout, seat geometry, upholstery and form giving; cabin connectivity and entertainment systems; lighting and environment system behaviour and control, cabin environment system control; galley and lavatory design, mechanisms, cabin ergonomics and the aesthetic and detailing of all cabin features. We are also increasingly involved in elements outside the aircraft such as exterior lighting – both the fixtures and light effects to create a striking ramp presence. We collaborate closely with Bombardier’s engineering, manufacturing and marketing teams to deliver amazing aircraft with no compromise. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. This year we introduced a complete cabin refresh of the Global 6000 aircraft, called the Premier cabin. It preserves the features and functionality that have made the Global 6000 aircraft such an amazing and successful business jet, while introducing fresh styling lines inspired by our new flagship Global 7000 aircraft, entering into service in 2018. We are unifying the cabin experience of our entire Global family. The Premier cabin showcases technology that really changes the way passengers connect while in the air: the
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revolutionary Ka-band high-speed internet system lets passengers’ stream movies, television or connect with the office using their own online accounts, just like they were on the ground or at home. Passengers can also control the aircraft using their own phone or tablet. We have also made some subtle but important comfort changes to the seating, again borrowing advances we have made on the Global 7000 aircraft. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards as we move into 2018? One: The designer’s role is to create an exceptional experience for the people who use our products: making it more interesting, more efficient, more beautiful, more capable, more fun! The design activity is often challenging work, but it should also be fun - if not, you’re doing it wrong. Two: As designers, we are naturally attracted to large projects and impressive, dramatic concepts. However even small design details - especially small design details - are an opportunity to show respect and care for the user. Three: The design activity should begin not with ‘what’ the product should be, but ‘why’? Why are we creating this product? How do we want the user to feel? What would you name as the main factor that separates you as a designer/company from your peers? As a company, Bombardier has a deep history of leadership, of being the first to do things. The company was founded by an inventor and this creativity remains a core part of the company’s DNA. Bombardier has always been an industry leader. As a designer, this legacy is a source of pride and inspiration: how can we, as a design team, continue this legacy of innovation into the future? This drive to create groundbreaking new products is what differentiates our design approach. This extends to the cabin – Bombardier was the first business jet manufacturer to bring home-like connectivity to the air (with Ka-band), the first to offer a stand-up shower, the first to bring high-end automotive detailing and quality to the flight deck, the first to offer a dedicated home theatre, the first to feature a dedicated bedroom for longrange operators critical to our cabin comfort. A part of our business strategy is to always be a leader. This leadership and commitment to our passengers is what separates us from our competitors. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. One very interesting influence with regards to cabin design in recent years is designing cabins to accommodate the pace of change in consumer electronics. The evolution is so fast in this segment that anticipating how to best adapt to this rate of change is something we are extremely focused on. Our offerings are focusing more on allowing customers to use the devices they carry everyday as a tool to control the cabin, watch a movie, or make a call while on board. This requires a strong and expandable infrastructure, remarkable connectivity speeds and developing apps that let our customers use Wi-Fi on board to control lighting, temperature, and distribute content. For Bombardier, this is a critical part in delivering an amazing cabin experience to our customers.
Bombardier, Global 6000 and Exceptional by Design are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries. © 2017 Bombardier Inc. All rights reserved.
We didn’t get here by sheer luck. This was deliberate.
An act of craftsmanship and engineering prowess. Decades in the making. Meeting at the intersection of art and technology. Defying conventions. Redefining luxury. So when all is said and done,
we’ll know that we achieved something truly extraordinary. businessaircraft.bombardier.com
JAMES WHITE & ELLIOT MARCH MARCH & WHITE
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WE FIND THAT LUXURY SPACES ARE BECOMING MORE AND MORE SOPHISTICATED BEYOND THE FINISHES.
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March & White are an international design house with studios in London, New York and Los Angeles. Their principals evolve around the idea that architecture and interior design are the starting point for projects that demand an extraordinary level of design. The studios pursue an expansive and diverse portfolio of projects all elegant and confident in their conception and execution. March & White have a formidable global reputation for uncompromised intelligent creativity interpreted through the finest materials. Tell us about your company and what you do… March & White is an international design agency, we focus on projects with a luxury edge, we cater for our clients’ lifestyles by designing the spaces that matter to them. We operate across Luxury Residential, Private Members Clubs, Hospitality and Superyachts. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. We have just completed 123m Superyacht Al Lusail with Lurssen which is incredibly exciting. We have also just opened the sales suite for our latest project 125 Greenwich in Manhattan. 125 Greenwich really blends everything we love. It fuses Luxury Residential with a Superyacht inspired interior and provides a member’s club inspired amenity space at the top of the building. Do you have any upcoming projects that, if able, you are willing to talk about? 2018 will be the year when we open our next members’ club interior in central London and open our first London based apartment sales suite. We are also launching the first pieces in our capsule collection beginning with the March & White Bar Cart. The Bar Cart fuses everything we love about design, it’s made with Superyacht level precision and styling, it has integrated technology and it will be at home in any of the world’s finest members clubs and private residences. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards as we move into 2018? One: Collaboration / Inspiration. We always challenge ourselves and our designers to create designs that draw inspiration from other sectors. For example, our residential projects are influenced by cutting edge yacht, jet and automotive designs. Two: Adaptive. You have to be adaptive; the luxury market is constantly changing, look at the fashion industry. We embrace this in the way we work and in the way we always look to grow in different markets. Three: Attention to Detail. Our clients demand that extra level of detail that only comes with the experience of designing the most luxurious yachts and homes. We bring this approach to all of our work.
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You must work with such a wide array of key suppliers in your field; do you have any favourite materials and products that you prefer to work with? Our research for yachting projects has led to us being incredibly passionate about bespoke materials, we can’t wait to see the latest from the craftsmen and artists we work with. Our design approach helps to push and create finishes which are completely new. Have you noticed any design trends or influences currently that you think are interesting? We find that luxury spaces are becoming more and more sophisticated beyond the finishes. Adaptable furniture and invisible technology are really interesting to us. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. Technology has allowed an extra level of complexity and detail. Our designs are layered with pattern, texture and form; this is possible because the artists and craftsmen we work with are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is achievable with technology and materials. What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come? From a design perspective the increase in chartered services, particularly in aviation, and how this alters client’s needs. A good example of the need for interiors which are increasingly adaptable. Do you have any plans or news that you would like to share with the industry for 2018? We are also launching the first pieces in our capsule collection beginning with the March & White Bar Cart. The Bar Cart fuses everything we love about design, it’s made with Superyacht level precision and styling, it has integrated technology and it will be at home in any of the world’s finest members clubs and private residences. Final thoughts or words of wisdom A quote from Raymond Chandler which inspired our Bar Cart: “I like bars just after they open for the evening. When the air inside is still cool and clean, and everything is shiny, and the barkeep is giving himself that last look in the mirror to see if his tie is straight and his hair is smooth. I like the neat bottles on the bar back and the lovely shining glasses and the anticipation. I like to watch the man mix the first one of the evening and put it down on a crisp mat and put the little folded napkin beside it. I like to taste it slowly. The first quiet drink of the evening in a quiet bar — that’s wonderful.”
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CHRISTI TANNAHILL TEXTRON AVIATION
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AESTHETIC INSPIRATION AND CABIN COMFORT COMES FROM ENDLESS SOURCES INCLUDING THE AUTOMOTIVE WORLD, YACHTS, FASHION, TEXTILES, ARCHITECTURE AND NATURE, JUST TO NAME A FEW.
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Textron Aviation is a leader in general aviation and home to the Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker brands. They account for more than half of all general aviation flying. Their broad range of products include Citation business jets, Beechcraft King Air and Cessna Caravan turboprops, Beechcraft and Cessna piston engine aircraft and the T-6 military trainer aircraft. Their products are backed by a capable service network that supports customers around the world. Please tell us a little about your background… Growing up in Wichita, Kansas - the Air Capital of the World - I guess you could say I have always had aviation in my blood. My first job out of college was in aviation and every job thereafter. It is just such an exciting industry – connecting the world through flight. The majority of my career has been centered on customer service and support. I started out managing Delta Air Lines’ customer support division, based in Wichita and then moved to Koch Industries, also in Wichita, to lead the quality department for its aviation division. In 1999, I joined then Raytheon Aircraft (Hawker Beechcraft/Beechcraft Corporation) as director of the Global Parts organization. During my career at the company, I took on additional roles and responsibilities in the Service organization. Prior to assuming my current role at Textron Aviation, I served as senior vice president of Turboprop Aircraft and Interior Design, where I was responsible for the development of our popular turboprop aircraft platforms as well as led the interior design team. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. I have the pleasure of working with one of the most talented teams of interior designers and engineers in the industry. One of the larger projects the Interiors team is working on right now is the design and development of the Cessna Citation Hemisphere business jet cabin. The Citation Hemisphere is Textron Aviation’s newest jet in development in the large-cabin category announced at NBAA 2015. This will be the first clean-sheet design in this class of aircraft that has seen little investment in more than 20 years. And our team is at the heart of ensuring the cabin experience is second to none for our customers. The key elements include customer feedback and satisfaction, the latest technologies, clean/simple design, exceptional comfort and flexibility to meet a wide variety of missions. Do you have a particular design theme or common influences that run through your projects historically? Aesthetic inspiration and cabin comfort comes from endless sources including the automotive world, yachts, fashion, textiles, architecture and nature, just to name a few. The artistic elegance of a time piece, or even the texture and color block of a
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handbag might be the spark for the look and feel of an aircraft interior. With our talented in-house team of designers, we are really able to customise the design based on the customer’s specifications. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards in today’s industry? One: Customer satisfaction. Two: Quality. Three: Flexibility. What do you feel separates you as a company from your competitors? One of the things that really sets us apart from our competition in the large-cabin class is that we bring vertical integration to our aircraft. Understanding that increased range capability requires maximum comfort and productivity, we are leveraging our vertical integration capabilities to ensure the cabin comfort is best in class. Interior furnishings, including the seats and cabinetry, will be designed and handcrafted by our in-house, highly skilled craftsmen. This allows us to not only control the quality of the aircraft, but also gives us the agility to make adjustments as we are designing the interior for each individual customer. What current design trends have you identified, and do you have any predictions for upcoming design directions? We are seeing a shift in design where more and more customers really want their aircraft to be an extension of their office, their yacht or their homes. We are moving from a set of three or four predetermined interior designs to choose from, to the flexibility to meet a wide variety of customers’ needs and wants. And our vertically integrated organisation will allow us the agility to do this. We do not limit ourselves to any certain design elements – we are constantly looking at what’s new and play off of different shapes, colors and fabrics. Have you faced any particular challenges of integrating technology into your design schemes? The challenge is really just trying to make sure we are keeping up to date with the latest technologies that are ever-evolving, while working with the aviation regulatory authorities to ensure we can bring these new features to our customers in a timely manner. As we are designing the cabins of our future aircraft, we have to ensure they incorporate the flexibility to accommodate a variety of technologies in the systems to stay state-of-the-art. What are your current plans for 2018? We continue working with our CAB to incorporate their feedback in defining the Hemisphere cabin.
VERTTI KIVI dSign VERTTI KIVI & CO
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OUR HUNGER FOR NEW EXPERIENCES AND CONSTANT CHANGE SETS NEW STANDARDS AND CHALLENGES FOR INTERIOR DESIGN.
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dSign Vertti Kivi & Co is an award-winning interior design agency based in Helsinki, Finland. Since 1993, they have completed more than 1000 projects and served hundreds of clients around the globe. Tell us a little about your background in design… I studied industrial design and interior architecture in University of Industrial Arts, Helsinki which is nowadays part of Aalto University. Got my MA in 1998. I founded my company already as student in 1995. Our first project was to design experimental office space which was a wild hands-on project where we produced most of the crazy furniture pieces by ourselves in the metal workshop at school. Work teaches a lot but it’s always interesting to learn totally new skills, between projects I’m trying to find time to finish my studies to get a mini MBA. What direction do you feel design is moving towards in general terms? Our hunger for new experiences and constant change sets new standards and challenges for interior design. In public multifunctional spaces, where functions vary according to the time of the day, for example, the design has to be strong and flexible at the same time and even adaptable to different mood changes. It is quite a challenge for a designer; you don’t get through with styling only anymore. (On the positive side there is a lot of potential, too.) In our office we have developed a special Space Alive concept to solve these new demands in the most creative and effective way. Any key trends that we should be aware of? We’ve noticed that flexibility, which has always been key issue in yacht design, is in great demand nowadays in all kinds of environments from hotel interiors to work spaces. Interiors must adapt to different needs in different times of the day and situations. The needs regarding both functions and moods vary. Our Space Alive concept will serve these needs systematically, allowing us to adjust the character and ambience of the space to the needs of different situations during the day. The concept was utilised also in the award-winning Finnair’s A350 interiors. What projects are you currently working on? Following the award-winning interiors of Finnair Airbus 350 and Hilton Tallinn Park hotel we have among other projects some great hotel projects in London, Oslo and Helsinki under way. The Megastar shuttle we designed for Tallink last year has proven to be a great success. The shuttle operates in the very competitive Helsinki-Tallinn route, but it is constantly fully booked, and I’ve been told that there are passengers who don’t care to leave the shuttle at all at the destination. They just come to enjoy the journey with entertaining atmosphere, food and drinks. In addition to the traditional work of interior designers our design team was highly involved in developing the business of the shuttle. To entertain the 2800 passengers during
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the two-hour journey we designed several different types of experience islands that suit the needs of different kind of customer groups and ease the navigation on board. Special attention was paid to the smooth customer flow. The lounges can be easily modified to suit the needs of the groups of different sizes. Flexibility and adjustable lighting were the key elements even in this project. The popularity of the shuttle proves again that as a client you get real value from design. If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be? Dream big, aim high and stick to your initial vision despite the numerous compromises that are part of the design process! The role of the designer is to make sure that the end user gets the experience she or he deserves. At the end it is worth the trouble and benefits the business of the client. How important are The International Yacht and Aviation Awards as recognition of talent and achievement? This is an honour and I’m really excited about it! I’m really happy we had a chance to design a customer journey for Finnair all the way from the lounge to the A350 XWB planes. The fact that our work has been recognised with this nomination is really encouraging and something I could have never even dreamt about as a young kid. What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months? Successful projects like Finnair and Hilton give you so much energy and hunger for new great design challenges. We have so many ideas and are constantly looking for partners to join us for the next crazy design adventure either in the sea, air or land. The bigger the better. And now a little bit about you: The car you drive? I’ve been driving Tesla model X for about year now and I have to admit it is a real game changer. It’s more like a shuttle than a car. I love the smoothness of driving it, I really don’t miss the sound of the motor. The place that gives you the most energy? Our tiny island near Helsinki. We’ve been building a second home there this year. It’s been both energy consuming and energising at the same time. Just can’t wait to get to spend summer holiday there with family and friends. I think of it as a summer house but actually it is so close to Helsinki that I can commute to work from there by boat every morning if I like. Your favourite food and drink? When in the air I always crave a Bloody Mary for unknown reasons (never on the ground). When it comes to food I favour Thai, Italian and Japanese. If you weren’t a designer, what would you be? I’d probably be musician. When I was young I had hard time choosing between saxophone and design. I think I made the right decision, though, I’m still passionate about this profession.
AWARD WINNING INTERIOR DESIGN FROM CRUISE SHIPS TO AIRCRAFTS
| WWW.DSIGN.FI | TEL. +358 50 566 6787 |
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GIUSEPPINA ARENA GIUSEPPINA ARENA ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN
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I LOVE NATURAL MATERIALS THAT STIMULATE THE SENSES.
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Giuseppina Arena is an expert in Yachts Interiors, Luxury Residences, Private Jets, and Retail Showrooms. With over 18 years of experience in Architecture and Interior Design, she has managed projects in Italy, Asia, North and South America. Please tell us a little about your background… I was born and raised in Sicily, exposed to several aspects of architecture and different forms of art. My Mum was a fashion designer with a hidden passion for architecture, and she taught me not to be a slave of the trends, but encouraged me to create my own unique, sophisticated, and timeless style. I loved the sea and the ships since when I was a little girl, my house was in a narrow land between the sea and a salty Lake, so during my childhood I spent a lot of time watching the waves, thinking on the beach, and feeling the amazing power and energy of the sea. I still have this habit, and anytime I have to make important decisions I know where to go. The funny story is that when I was a baby, the only song that made me fall asleep was about ships… At the age of 18 I moved to Tuscany, where I studied at the University of Florence, obtaining my Master Degree in Architecture, with the final theses on the main theatre of the Grand Princess. Immediately after I obtained a postgraduate master in Yacht Design, and the relationship with Princess Cruises allowed me to work for this renowned company for five years, during which I designed the most beautiful cruises ships in the world. After this experience I worked for Intermarine -Rodriquez Group, were I gained experienc in military vessels and Fast Patrol Boat winning a national competition with the 13’. Three years later, I had the opportunity to work for CNL Admiral Shipyard, a premier yacht building company, designing the interiors of aluminium high-performance superyachts. In 2007 I joined Ferretti Group, where I conceived luxury interiors for all the Ferretti Group Brands. Five years later, I was appointed as the Architect and Interior Designer for the Americas of Ferretti Group USA, and I moved to Miami where I established a specialised interior design centre and capability for the Americas. Finally, two years ago, I decide to create my own Company. Tell us about your company and what you do… We design Yachts interiors, refit at every level, exterior and interior design for Luxury Residences, Retails stores & Commercial, private Jet interiors. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. I just completed the refit of an old Ferretti, designed the new 90’GTM Dynamiq, I am working on the interiors of Navetta 33 metres, and a 50 metres, both for private clients, I am refitting a Falcon 800X, designing the interiors of a luxury retail store in Lima, the exteriors and interiors of a luxury residence in Miami, and others projects… My favourite design elements are the clear lines, the use of appropriated and sophisticated materials for the details, to create a chic and cosy atmosphere.
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What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards as we move into 2018? One: Interior customization flexibility. Two: Higher use of technology integrated with the design. Three: Bring back the connection between interiors and exteriors. What would you name as the main factor that separates you as a designer/company from your peers? I have been working for almost 18 years in different fields of this industry, cruise lines, military boats, private yachts, and fishing boats, and this experience makes me feel confident enough to manage all type of interiors, keeping their own identity. Working in the shipyards, handling problems from the construction side, helps me now tremendously during the design concept phase. I believe that is extremely important to take in to consideration from the beginning, all the technical aspects, because this helps to keep the ideal vision almost the same. You must work with such a wide array of key suppliers in your field; do you have any favourite materials and products that you prefer to work with? Yes, I love natural materials that stimulate the senses, it happens with wood floor, walking with shoes off and feeling it, and appreciating the natural nodes; with the leather that you touch and feel the grain, and you smell its peculiar perfume forever; with some metals like rose gold or brushed nickel that are sophisticated and cold at the same time. Have you noticed any design trends or influences currently that you think are interesting? Many brands of fashion and furniture design, are now more interested in customising their own products for naval and air plane uses, and this makes me feel that they finally understood that tailor made is the right direction with the always more demanding clients. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. The use of “home automation” and wireless systems for all the electrical appliances, that have to be connected with the client’s devices. What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come? Keeping the highest quality and being, at the same time, competitive in the all the markets worldwide. Do you have any plans or news that you would like to share with the industry for 2018? I am working on a project that is very ‘unusual’ for the shipyard that will build it, I am very excited, but I can’t say more…
OUR PASSION IS CREATING SOMETHING SPECIAL AND EMOTIONAL FOR CLIENTS, WHOSE DREAMS WE TURN INTO A REALITY
Via Fulvio Bernardini, 25 - 00142 Rome, Italy 485 Brickell Avenue - Suite 2101 - Miami, FL 33131 www.giuseppinaarena.com
MICHELA REVERBERI MICHELA REVERBERI STUDIO
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I LIKE THE CONTAMINATION AMONG DIFFERENT FIELDS OF WORK IN ORDER TO INCREASE THE POSSIBILITY TO EXPRESS IDEAS.
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Reverberi Design is a high-profile architect studio engaged in yachting and residential interior design. With headquarters in Rome, Reverberi Design is strongly influenced by solid experiences in the yachting industry. The projects designed by architect Michela Reverberi are expressed without limits or barriers. They do not seek provocation or nourishment in contamination, but access freely all available natural elements and technical items, far from any prejudice. Please tell us a little about your background… I graduated with an Architecture degree in Rome. After ten years’ experience in other architecture studios, of which eight were spent in Luigi Sturchio’s office, I started my own company in 2000. Strongly influenced by my experience in yachting industry, the studio develops every project entirely, from the arrangement of layouts to the tiniest detail.
Working with the awareness that every project bases its unicity on the achievement of the highest synthesis between the Owner’s desire and culture and the style and culture of the designer, always filtered by the overcoming rules and technical requests, in order to achieve elegant and innovative solutions. You must work with such a wide array of key suppliers in your field; do you have any favourite materials and products that you prefer to work with? I do not want to limit myself, I am always open to insert new elements and materials in my projects but, for sure, I like to use glass for the possibility it provides to let light come in and sight to expand out. Have you noticed any design trends or influences currently that you think are interesting?
Tell us about your company and what you do…
As said above, I like the contamination among different fields of work in order to increase the possibility to express ideas.
We have a consolidated experience in designing Motor and Sailing yachts, with some excursions in residential architecture, always with water as pole of attraction.
What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come?
Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes.
I think it is vital to realize the market has changed and it requires new approach to the marketing and communication.
We completed the refit of Perini Sailing Yacht Spirit of the C’s (ex Felicita West) and now we are working on a 67mt MY and an 81mt MY. On these projects, more than ever, we are opening our minds and looking further, overcoming any boundary.
And now a little about you:
Do you have any upcoming projects that, if able, you are willing to talk about? We are developing the Project of a floating island and a new Project I would prefer not to talk about for the moment, as it is something brand new for us. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards as we move into 2018? One: It is required a greater awareness of the importance to adopt responsible and sustainable solutions. All the choices shall tend to a merge and integration with the environment and a much greater respect for the natural elements that the Boat will cross. Two: Maintain coherence, while looking for contamination of styles and technics. Three: Elegance and harmony developing projects that are always unique. What would you name as the main factor that separates you as a designer/company from your peers? The capability to listen the Client accepting any challenge and enjoying developing the project.
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If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have been? I wondered sometimes the same question. I think something not too different and in artistic field, or at least something that would have allowed me to enjoy art in any form The car you drive : A Mercedes Your favourite restaurant: Fish restaurant in Paris and bars on the seaside and looking at the sunset with a glass of wine The place that gives you inspiration: Any place, situation, emotion, can help me find inspiration. Ideal holiday destination: Whenever I can enjoy my beloved. The perfect drink: If I want to spoil and cuddle myself, I like champagne Final thoughts or words of wisdom: ‘Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler’ (a. Einstein). I look for an essential style, which is not simplicity, but a solution of complexity, through competence, experience and creativity.
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SIMON KOENIG JET AVIATION
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GLOBAL DIGITALISATION IS DEFINITIVELY ONE, IF NOT THE LARGEST, INFLUENCE IN OUR FIELD OF WORK. WE’RE SEEING A STRONGTENDENCY TOWARDS VIRTUAL REALITY.
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Jet Aviation is a Basel-based business aviation services company, one of the industry’s largest, it was founded in Switzerland in 1967. Please tell us a little about your background… I have an Industrial Design degree, which is the base for my work experience during recent years. For two years, I lived in the Netherlands, working for different design studios such as Marcel Wanders. In 2008, I joined Jet Aviation as a drafter. That provided me with a smooth entry in this highly complex and competitive business of private aviation. After a short period, I took over the Design responsibility for a completions project. That helped to develop myproject management skills in combination with the creative elements of VIP Interior Design. In 2012, I received the beautiful and challenging task of creating a division within Jet Aviation to provideInterior Design work to refurbishment customers, similar to the well-established Completions Design Studio. Today, I’m heading a well-recognised Interior Design Team that is dedicated to our refurbishment customers. Tell us about your company and what you do… Jet Aviation has a long history of aircraft VIP cabin refurbishment and completions. This year, we are celebrating our 50th anniversary. The particular field of responsibility for me and my team is Refurbishment Interior Design. Our core businessis extremely versatile. Our customers are as different as their demands. From extremely short turnaround times with ultra-low budget to a major refurbishment and reconfiguration that can take longer – we handle conception to execution. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. One of my favourite elements of my position is that every day, we’re challenged with something new. Forexample, we may be informed in the morning that there is an aircraft or customer visit to be performed. Thepreparation time might be extremely short. This pressure, combined with enthusiasm and team spirit,leads to great results and professional presentations.Right now, we have interesting challenges on several large projects for Q1 and Q2 2018. We are working onspecifications and supporting the quotation team with Design elements such as material selections andvisuals.In all of our concepts, we are adding depth in terms of design detailing. This can be simple accents coveredwith very unusual materials that blend in perfectly with the overall scheme – or details of complexity such asstitching, piping, or inlays, which are not noticeable in a global view, but are very present, especially if theobserver takes the time to look at the visuals. You must work with such a wide array of key suppliers in your field; do you have any favourite materials and products that you prefer to work with? When I start working on concept, I begin with material selection, having the shapes already in my head. Oneof the luxuries of being a dedicated design team is having the time and resources to find the absolutely perfectmaterials to complement our concept.The combination of both elements - material and shape - has to be harmonic and convincing, so that thecustomer loves the schemes. If possible, I add a personal touch to the concept. This can be a playful pattern ona décor pillow, an unusual type of leather for an accent on a seat, or a carpet design that is completely unusual, but blends perfectly
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with the surrounding elements. So basically, I love materials that seem to be, if you see them plain and standing alone, over the top andstrange. But once placed in the context of a complete cabin visual, they surprise the customer by creating adeeply satisfying feeling of having something very special and unique. Elements which have a natural ageing process - like naked leather, which marks when scratched, or a coppersurface without a clear-coat, which shows wavy colour-nuances - can add personal value and stories to anobject – or an interior. If those “imperfect” surfaces are combined with perfect elements such as a high-gloss varnish of a wood – or aharmonic and precisely shaped seat, the richness and depth of a concept is overwhelming. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work inrecent years. Global digitalisation is definitively one, if not the largest, influence in our field of work. We’re seeing a strongtendency towards virtual reality. Threedimensional concepts in interactive and photo-realistic finish are nowa standard that an increasing number of customers are expecting. This technology enables us to reach our endcustomers in their preferred environment – on mobile devices athome, work, or during travel. But a live presentation with tangible materials is, in my opinion, mandatory and inevitable. Haptics – touchand feel are very difficult to communicate via digital channels. What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come? We mustn’t lose focus on our customers. Where and who they are and what they need. By focusing on those elements, we can create solutions that can benefit the customer and the company. Aviation is ruled by regulatory restrictions that inhibit creational freedom in interior design. So one of our most challenging tasks is to find a way to implement our desired innovations and ideas into our executed projects. And now a little about you: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have been? Owner of a garage for classic cars or entertaining a Pedalo rental The car you drive: VW T5 California, Rover-Mini, Citroen 2cv Your favourite restaurant: My parent’s kitchen The place that gives you inspiration: Daily life in non-aviation fields such as expositions, furniture, cars Ideal holiday destination: Sardinia Italy and Den Haag NL The perfect drink: Tap water Final thoughts or words of wisdom: Motivation is key for success; if something is not fun, make it fun!
Life... Style A Vision Distinctly Yours Your life is unique. So is your style. Reflect it all with a beautifully designed interior or recompletion from the innovative design team and highly-skilled craftsmen at Jet Aviation. From interactive table tops, to bespoke lighting solutions to finely-woven fabrics and rich wood veneers, your personal aviation sanctuary awaits.
One Jet Aviation. Many Advantages. Maintenance, Refurbishment, Completions, FBO, Aircraft Management, Flight Support, Charter, Staffing.
Jet Aviation Basel CH-4030 Basel-EuroAirport Switzerland +41 58 158 4111 jbsl@jetaviation.ch www.jetaviation.com/basel/maintenance/refurbishment
JAY BEEVER EMBRAER EXECUTIVE JETS
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SOME TRENDS THAT I AM KEEN TO KEEP MY EYE ON ARE 3D PRINTING TECHNOLOGY AND BIOMIMICRY DESIGN. THERE IS SO MUCH WE CAN STILL LEARN FROM THE NATURAL WORLD AROUND US AND THEREBY CREATE EVEN MORE COMFORTABLE AND INTERIOR ENVIRONMENTS.
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Embraer stands on the proud shoulders of Brazilian aviation pioneers whose work dates back to the early 18th century and the dawn of powered flight. Embraer’s a leading force in aerospace technology and innovation, delivering more than 8,000n executive, commercial and defence aircraft in its 47+ years which are now operating in over 90 countries. Please tell us a little about your background… 25 years experience designing new products for automotive and aerospace OEM’s. My first 15 years was spent with Ford Motor Company developing production and concept automobiles such as the Mustang, Thunderbird, GR-1 and various others. Following Ford I joined Gulfstream Aerospace and was responsible for the G-650 interior development. This experience prepared me well for my current role at Embraer which started in 2012. Projects at Embraer Executive Jets have included the Legacy 450, Legacy 500, Phenom 300E and various Lineage 1000E custom interiors. Tell us about your company and what you do… Embraer designs and manufactures business aircraft for the private aviation Industry. As Senior Vice President of Interior Design, I am responsible for new product development and customer interior design and configuration. These activities are centralised within our state of the art R&D Industrial design studio and our customer centre design suites in Melbourne Florida. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. I’m very excited to now be engaged with customers on our all new phenom 300E. We spent three and a half years developing this interior with the goal of providing value and interior design customisation experiences that our customers expect. Our all new Embraer designed, engineered and built seats and upper technology panel are a couple of industry exclusive features found within this interior. In addition, we’ve unveiled two new concepts for the Lineage 1000E, Manhattan and Hollywood Airships. These aircraft represent the ultimate charter experience dressed in timeless Art Deco design elements celebrating the Art Deco city pairs like Manhattan and Hollywood. The Hollywood Airship has a unique hieroglyph designed headliner and side wall with embossed leather storytelling images of Hollywood’s automotive, architectural and aerospace history. Do you have any upcoming projects that, if able, you are willing to talk about? I do have some very exciting projects that we are working on but highly confidential at the moment. Keep on the watch! What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards as we move into 2018? One: Innovations in tactile surfaces. Two: Focus on timeless consumer product-less features. Three: Lighting and wearable tech industry.
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What would you name as the main factor that separates you as a designer/company from your peers? All designers have a personal touch, style and DNA. I don’t like to compare myself or elevate myself over my peers so I can’t elaborate on that part of the question. However, I would say that we at Embraer strive to make sure the customer feel as though they are the designer by creating as many canvases of change possible to execute the ultimate in personalised design. Have you noticed any design trends or influences currently that you think are interesting? Some trends that I am keen to keep my eye on are 3D printing technology and biomimicry design. There is so much we can still learn from the natural world around us and thereby create even more comfortable and interior environments. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. I feel that carbon fibre manufacturing and tooling capabilities have dramatically improved in a way that allow low volume parts to be made in a much lesser price. Because of this we are able to produce stronger lighter weight parts with much more shape designed into them. What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come? One of the biggest issues facing the aviation industry is that of price competitiveness. Many OEMs are reducing the sales price of their aircraft to levels below break even. Near term this may look like a benefit to the consumer however long term it reduces the appetite to innovate and invest in R&D. Therefore, the challenge is how to maintain customer expectations of being surprised by new features while reducing production costs at the same time. And now a little about you: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have been? A civil engineer / architect. The car you drive: BMW X5 The place that gives you inspiration: Southern California and Los Angeles Ideal holiday destination: Sardinia Italy The perfect drink: Grey Goose vodka martini with blue cheese olives Final thoughts or words of wisdom: As a designer stay true to the customer or client more than yourself.
BERNARDO ZUCCON ZUCCON INTERNATIONAL PROJECT
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AS A STUDIO WE ARE QUITE VERSATILE; TALKING ABOUT MATERIALS, WE DO LIKE TO WORK WITH TRANSPARENT SURFACES SINCE A CORE ASPECT OF OUR RESEARCH AND DESIGN IS THE POSSIBILITY TO “BREAK DOWN” THE PHYSICAL & VISUAL BARRIERS THAT SEPARATE THE OWNER AND THEIR GUESTS FROM THE SEA.
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Zuccon International Project was founded back in 1972 by Bernardo Zuccon’s parents, and is now one of the most prestigious architectural and industrial design companies operating in the yachting sector, although they are a multidisciplinary study, active in several fields ranging from architectural to industrial design, from leisure yacht to automotive. In over 40 years of activity, we designed more than 100 yachts for some of the most famous Shipyards. The company operates in Rome and is able to design all types of motor yachts in composite materials, steel or aluminium. In their 10 years spent here they have had the chance to collaborate with many projects and developing her own, working with some of the most important Italian shipyards, such as Ferretti Group, Sanlorenzo and Perini/Picchiotti. Please tell us a little about your background… I graduated with honours in architecture at the “La Sapienza” University in Rome. Ten years ago I began my collaboration with the family firm Zuccon International Project, dealing mainly with yacht and boat design. In 2013 we decided to create a new brand, ZSYD or Zuccon SuperYachtDesign, dedicated to research, development and design exclusively of superyacht projects. This new division is under the supervision of my sister Martina and me. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. 2017 has been an important year for me, since it marked the beginning of new collaborations. For years we have worked almost exclusively with Ferretti Group (being Navetta 33 and Navetta37 two of our last project for CRN shipyard) but since the beginning of this year we decided to widen our range of collaboration. With PY Heritage 45M, presented back in April 2017, we began our collaboration with Picchiotti Yachts. This project pays tribute to Gerhard Gilgenast, one of the most important architects to work with Picchiotti Yachts in the past. The new 45-meter motoryacht translates some of the style features developed over the years by Gilgenast into a more contemporary design language. PY Heritage is an extremely innovative yacht, with several features that put it in an unconventional niche, both as a classic expedition yacht and a support vessel for Perini Navi superyachts. The layout leaves most of the main deck free to accommodate two tenders (a sailboat and a motor yacht, both of nine meters in length) and two jet skis. Do you have any upcoming projects that, if able, you are willing to talk about? In few months we will announce a new collaboration with another major Italian shipyard, Sanlorenzo. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards as we move into 2018? One: The attention towards the new trend in the market combined with the ability to create a unique timeless design that can remain actual for the years to come. Two: The will to invest, time and money, in research and development. Three: The will to experiment with new materials, designs and technology. What would you name as the main factor that separates you as a designer/company from your peers? Probably the fact that growing up as an architect, in my whole career as an architect, workplace and family
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context coincided. What has been driving me wasn’t just a professional ambition, but rather the love for my family and the will to contribute and consolidate a family success. It is a different kind of ambition. You must work with such a wide array of key suppliers in your field; do you have any favourite materials and products that you prefer to work with? As a studio we are quite versatile; talking about materials, we do like to work with transparent surfaces since a core aspect of our research and design is the possibility to “break down” the physical and visual barriers that separate the owner and their guests from the sea. Onboard Navetta 33, for instance, on the upper deck a system of sliding glass partitions has been used to unite the saloon and outdoor terrace area, creating a seamless functional, physical and visual continuum between the two settings. In this way the upper deck becomes a roomy terrace with an al fresco dining area. Have you noticed any design trends or influences currently that you think are interesting? The last years’ gigantism mania is absorbing this market’s offer and will continue to do so in the next years: as a result the majority of the shipyards is now going in the superyacht direction. Talking more specifically about yachts’ layout, in today’s market we are seeing a new consolidating trend concerning the stern area, which has to be extremely flexible in adapting between its use during navigation on one hand and at anchor on the other. That is why in our newest projects we are going for a layout that can be as flexible as possible, so that the various areas can be set up in different ways and for different purposes, remembering that cultural differences are driving very different approaches to life on board in today’s increasingly heterogeneous market. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. Today designing a yacht means having to keep in mind the transformability element. A yacht has to be a chameleonic object: hermetic when cruising, able to opens up and transforms when at anchor. To me, the technological advances that really have influenced my work, are all those technologies that allows the yacht’s transformation, such as folding terraces, floodable side-garages, and so on. What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come? I am glad to say that our industry is finally beginning to address all the environmental issues: as designers and workers in this industry, we have the moral duty to pay attention to these subjects, becoming more responsible in terms of sustainability. The future yachts have to be greener not only for what it concerns the propulsion, but also for the materials, with an eye to the recycling ad disposing issue.
ALBERT SEDLMAYER SEDLMAYER ASSOCIATES PTY LTD
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SINCE 2012 I HAVE PRIMARILY BEEN DEVELOPING SAILING CATAMARAN SUPERYACHT DESIGNS IN MY BUSINESS, USING THE EXTENSIVE MULTIHULL EXPERTISE I HAVE ESTABLISHED OVER THE PRECEDING 40+ YEARS.
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Please tell us a little about your background… I was born in southern Germany and grew up in Australia, where at an early age I developed deep interest in boats, sailing and snorkelling. After 10 years in Australia my parents took me out of school at age 15 and we moved back to southern Germany, where I began an apprenticeship, qualifying as cabinetmaker. After that I completed an Architectural drafting diploma and started freelancing in architecture, at times alone and other times in business with partners. I married my one and only wife Gisela. In 1975 we moved to New Zealand, where I was employed as boatbuilder and designer at Jim Young Marine Ltd, following eminent predecessors there such as Bruce Farr and Ron Holland. I enjoyed 2 years on the regatta circuit racing a Tornado catamaran. After 3 years in New Zealand I founded my own yacht design business, Sedlmayer Associates (NZ) and ran it successfully for 14 years. In 1978 I purchased my first programmable calculator, and then my first pre-PC microcomputers, which came with an operating system (CPM) and a programming language. I learned programming and wrote all my own naval architecture software. In 1987 the stock market corrected dramatically, and the 4 subsequent years of recession in New Zealand depleted my clientele. In 1992 we moved to Australia, where I was employed as senior naval architect at Sea Transport Solutions Pty Ltd (STS), designing every aspect of many large commercial catamarans and other ships,overthe next 20 years. In 2012 I founded Sedlmayer Associates Pty Ltd, and while continuing designing commercial vessels on contract, I began developing my own superyacht designs. Tell us about your company and what you do… Since 2012 I have primarily been developing sailing catamaran superyacht designs in my business, using the extensive multihull expertise I have established over the preceding 40+ years, and applying the aesthetic principles I had learned during my early years in terrestrial architecture. My concurrent bread-and-butter contract-design work is mainly in catamaran RoPax ferries, 30m up to 150m, with most around 50-60m. Also, deep-sea mining and Bulkexport shipping/transhipping solutions, designing vessels up to 330m with materials-handling gear. Together with STS I work closely with AMC (Australian Maritime College; University of Tasmania) involving tank testing and concept proofing for many of these innovative STS projects, and helping NA students and graduates gain work-experience. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. My own design work currently encompasses … • Developing a simple system to connect sheet-materials for hard-chine boats, for fast, accurate, hassle-free boatbuilding, with minimal setup jigs. • Developing various hybrid drive and power profiles for my SPECTRUM 61, 200-foot Sailing Catamaran Superyacht design, using new technologies in this fast-developing field. Do you have any upcoming projects that, if able, you are willing to talk about? I am currently flat out with mountains of contract design work, so my future design endeavours encompass… • Developing ideas and parameters for a retractablehydrofoil power cruiser.
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• Developing character schemes for my upcoming superyacht designs ... these ideas usually appear as an ambience, as ghostly shapes or principal disembodied lines in a foggy context. • Designing a family of fast sail and electric/hybrid motorsail boats of various sizes. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards as we move into 2018? One: I endeavour to perfectly tune the identity and character of a superyacht design to match the (first-) owner’s character profile … Their interests, temperament, relationship to the vessel, time on board, etc. Even a specvessel design has a preferred owner (who may not even know it). Subsequent owners will naturally refit the ship according to their own character profiles. Two: I don’t let convention eclipse innovation – there is always a better solution, accessible via lateral thinking, sketching, and time. Three: Identify the natural ambience of every space on board the vessel, and then adjust its details to strengthen that ambience. What would you name as the main factor that separates you as a designer/company from your peers? I have substantial experience in the efficient design of large catamarans, as well as sailing vessels, including square-riggers. This and the ability to translate a client’s temperament and lifestyle, into a ship’s arrangement and character. Have you noticed any design trends or influences currently that you think are interesting? I observe design trends carefully and analyse the portrayed object characters. Some designs take my breath away and with those I search my feelings toward each detail of structure and geometry, to identify the hook. What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come? Here in Australia we have virtually no superyacht market, with a little more interest in New Zealand. My biggest challenge is to generate client interest in this part of the world. And now a little about you: The car you drive: I am basically a minimalist and drive a Subaru XV, which efficiently takes me to every beautiful outback nook and cranny I desire to explore. The place that gives you inspiration: My home city, the Gold Coast, which even has its own, signature architectural style. Ideal holiday destination: The wide, open spaces of Outback Australia, and anywhere on the coast. Final thoughts or words of wisdom: Be aware of everything beautiful, regardless of what it is, and learn about it. Observe and describe its features and be thankful for the privilege of enjoying its beauty.
www.sednav.com
PO Box 1097 Southport Qld 4215 Australia +61(0) 7 5597 3419
DIDIER WOLFF HAPPY DESIGN STUDIO
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DESIGN COUNTS STRONGLY AMONG THE VARIOUS FIELDS OF MY SENSITIVITY.
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Visual Identity of Airlines and Customization of Airline Planes and Private Jets. Created by Didier Wolff and based in France, Happy Design Studio has become a reference in original taylor made liveries on any type of aircraft. The audacity and passion of our customers for aircraft lea to very unique and personal projects revealing their personality or their companies. Happy Design Studio manages the entire design project and supervise the painting of the aircraft on behalf of its clients wherever they are by relying on a large and very qualified technical partners and network. Because each and every design are created on an accurate 3D model, all technical constraints linked with the final painting of the aircraft are taken into consideration from the start in order to ensure that the result will perfectly match the initial project. Please tell us a little about your background… I previously worked with image, creation and design. In fact, I have been writing, acting, sculpting, photo shooting since the earlier stages of my life. Design counts strongly among the various fields of my sensitivity. Getting my pilot license brought me closer to the aviation world, leading me naturally to associate design and aviation. The common denominator of my past experiences is a continuous search for beauty. Through the creation of posters, the gallery and the streets were the open public areas. Now, with the design of aircraft liveries, the gallery is the open sky. Tell us about your company and what you do… Far from all marketing stereotypes, I will not perform any market analysis to convince clients that such blue or such green has been favoured by a sample of representative aircraft owners, Happy Design Studio is not an advertising agency. I create unique aircraft liveries and I guide entirely the painting process in order to ensure the exact match with the original project validated by my clients and most of all make sure that it has been painted in agreement with the aviation state of the art rules as it is not subject to any compromise. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. A livery on a F16 fighter Do you have any upcoming projects that, if able, you are willing to talk about? I was contacted recently by the owner of an aircraft who asked me to design a livery by leaving me carte blanche. His only instructions were ; ‘I just want to discover your work with my children, when the plane will be painted’.
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What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards as we move into 2018? One: Be delighted Two: Forget the time Three: Take the time What would you name as the main factor that separates you as a designer/company from your peers? I limit the number of my creations to take the time to live. You must work with such a wide array of key suppliers in your field; do you have any favourite materials and products that you prefer to work with? The Blue Bic is my favourite. Have you noticed any design trends or influences currently that you think are interesting? Definitely the car and motorcycle Neo-Retro style. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. Homemade recipes, no one’s allowed in the kitchen. What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come? The challenges facing the private aviation and superyacht industry in the coming years are likely to be related to traveling freely in a more and more suspicious and secure world. And now a little about you: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have been? Volcanologist. The car you drive A Chrysler 300C Touring, a real rolling sculpture. Your favourite restaurant “Chez Vong” / Rue de la Grande Truanderie / Paris The place that gives you inspiration The Louvres / Department of sculptures / “La Table aux Amours” / Marble, 137,2 cm × 162,6 cm by Lorenzo Bartolini Final thoughts or words of wisdom If there is a will, there is a way.
MARTIN KEMP MARTIN KEMP DESIGN
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SUPERYACHT DESIGN IS A WORLD AWAY FROM DESIGN FOR THE HOME, AND TRENDS RARELY FEATURE.
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Please tell us a little about your background… I come from a very creative family, with a background in art and design. My mother was a portrait painter and my father, a planner and architect which has definitely influenced me artistically. I began my design path studying at the Welsh School or Art & Design in Cardiff and then at the L’Ecole des Beaux Art Decoratif in Strasbourg. In London, I was lucky enough to work at highly creative studios such as Imagination, Virgile & Stone and later with renowned agencies such as DIN Associates, however it was my time in L.A which really fuelled my passion for residential design working for the revered interior designer Barbara Barry in Beverly Hills. The role of Creative Director at Candy & Candy brought me back to London in 2003 where I worked until 2012 on landmark developments such as the iconic One Hyde Park in London’s Knightsbridge, before setting up my own studio, Martin Kemp Design in 2012. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. We have recently finished working on two residential projects in Mayfair. A set of 7 unique boutique private apartments at 77 South Audley Street which we have been working on for the past 5 years and a private house on Upper Grosvenor Street. Elsewhere, MKD have completed the total interiors scheme for a 45 meter Logica Superyacht and the interiors of a private Challenger 604 private jet. It’s a busy time at Martin Kemp Design. The past 5 years has seen us grow from a studio of 1 to a team of 21, developing an increasingly international focus, working on projects that span the globe. One which we are particularly excited about is the total refit of Ecstasea, a Superyacht that was formerly owned by Abramovich, due to be completed next Spring. Alongside this, we’re also working on the interiors scheme for a global express jet for another private client which will take around 8 months to complete, so should also be ready for spring next year. Talk us through your process of design and application. The process of design and application will vary very much between different projects; every scheme we create is unique and tailored to our client’s exacting tastes and requirements. In the interior design of any project, the owner may have as much or as little input into the interior design process as they wish. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards in today’s industry? The three most important qualities in the industry should embrace quality design from start to finish, adhering to budget and meeting client’s expectations. It is all too easy in todays fast paced world for designers to cut corners to meet time requirements but in our world quality is one thing that should never be sacrificed.
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What do you feel separates you as a designer/company from your competitors? At MKD we pride ourselves on embracing a wide range of design and styling. We have an exceptional manner of delivery, uncompromising attention to detail and a worldclass level of service. This, and a commitment to our British heritage, is what gives us appeal. We pride ourselves on being a leader in style and originality. What current design trends have you identified, and do you have any predictions for upcoming design directions? Superyacht design is a world away from design for the home, and trends rarely feature. A yacht needs to have international lasting appeal – they tend to be used across the globe and sailed in many differing regions. Instead, we look to the owners for our inspiration sometimes bringing their holiday aspirations to life or merely creating an extension of their home. We choose a design palette and select furnishings that make the interiors of the yacht both comfortable and relaxing in equal measure, with occasional touches of glamour and drama. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. At MKD, technological advancements rarely affect our design schemes. The world of technology is notoriously fast paced, and we would never want an aspect of the interior to be solely dependent on a piece of software, just in case it goes out of date. However, the advancement of material technology does have a lot of influence on our work as designers, particularly when thinking about weight. Carbon fibre with a honeycomb core is a relatively new material that we now regularly use in private jets, due to how light it is. What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come? I suspect the biggest challenge to be faced over the next couple of years will be ecological fears and restrictions on the economy of running a super yacht or a private jet due to an increased awareness of one’s carbon foot print.
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ROBERT STEPHENS AND PAUL WARING STEPHENS WARING YACHT DESIGN
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WE ARE EAGER TO SEE ADVANCEMENT IN ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SYSTEMS AND EMERGING PROPULSION TECHNOLOGY.
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Stephens Waring Yacht Design is a custom naval architecture and engineering firm located in Belfast, Maine.
between spaces, indoor and outdoor, that blur the lines between -- this is where big rewards can be found for the overall enjoyment of a yacht.
Please tell us a little about your background…
Three: Innovations in materials technology and manufacturing are constantly evolving and will help us tailor newer solutions to the many hurdles we encounter during the design process.
Bob: I’ve been doodling boats since about age ten; at 14 my parents gave me an old-school drafting set and I began designing in earnest. I’ve learned yacht design “on the job”—voracious reading, hands-on build experience, and support from mentors, including Joel White of Brooklin Boat Yard, where I stepped into his design shoes after his death in 1997. Paul: I grew up sailing boats on the west coast, Oregon. My family raced and cruised the coastal waters north and south west coast. My first job as a kid was in a boatyard working alongside older experienced craftsmen, and their trade skills seemed to grab me. In college, I followed a mixed major with engineering as a focus. In the early 90’s my learned skills of boatbuilding and engineering culminated into a kind of self-made naval architect after graduation from the Landing School with a diploma in Yacht Design. We’ve worked together for over 20 years, firstly as design team for the highly revered Brooklin Boat Yard, in Brooklin, Maine. Our track record of designing custom boutique daysailers and larger yachts along with managing large and small projects of all kinds has built a great career. In 2008, we began forming our own entity as a separate design house and in 2011 we left the boatyard offices moving to our current studio in Belfast, ME. Tell us about your company and what you do… We are focused on the refined design of sailing and power yachts. Our work covers all areas of design and construction support for both our clients and the construction yards we work with creating our projects, including naval architecture, structural design, and interior and exterior design and styling. A particular focus is ergonomics of spaces and sailing platforms. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. Currently, we have two custom projects underway-43 foot and 65 foot sailboats under construction and launching in early Summer 2018. Additionally, we are assisting a local builder of fishing boats to create a highly customized version of his larger model to produce a uniquely tailored 48 foot Sportfishing yacht for a client in Florida. Also, in design process are two more sailboats -- one, a modern fast-cruising sloop at 57 feet, and the second, a classically inspired sloop at 47 feet LOA. We also have a number of refit jobs in process where our work is focused on supporting the needs of our client and helping yards make good systems and structural decisions. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards as we move into 2018? One: Refining integration of smart tech into a yacht’s systems and user interface, along with the creation of more entertainment features built for guests/owners. Two: We continue to focus on connectivity to the environment; ease of communication and uses
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Have you noticed any design trends or influences currently that you think are interesting? We are eager to see advancement in alternative energy systems and emerging propulsion technology. We believe electric propulsion design is obvious as the next-gen solution and we’ll continue to play with ideas for how to best utilize current tech and how to take that into products that suit a modern family seeking to enjoy time on the water. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. The development of 3-dimensional CAD and the printing technologies to create products is moving fast. This will drive the way we all innovate and the way design process will evolve. At some point we may experience a greatly improved access to production opportunities with an intersection of materials development and 3D printing. And now a little about you: The car you drive Paul: My next car has got to be something from Tesla for the innovative electric tech. I currently own a 2014 VW GTI, Autobahn model. Ample horsepower, great handling and spare style that’s coupled with a userfriendly interface. Bob: My latest vehicle is a bike—a classic 1970 Honda twin that’s a bit of a project—she needs some TLC before hitting the road. Looking forward to getting some grease under my fingernails. The place that gives you inspiration Paul: I find a lot of inspiration in time spent on the water, especially in remote spots. The quiet wilderness can be mind-bending and really get the blood pumping. When at sea, there is a unique feeling I get, a special connection to the planet, and a larger sense of how small one really is in this whole place we call the universe. Bob: The Snowfields, at Sugarloaf Mountain, when they are open—some of the really rare abovetimberline snowboarding in the East. Gets my adrenaline pumping! Final thoughts or words of wisdom Paul: Take chances. Do not be shy. Love what you do. Bob: Listen to your inner voice—chances are it’s right.
SHAUN CARKEEK CARKEEK DESIGN PARTNERS
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CREATING CUTTING EDGE, SLEEK, INNOVATIVE, ICONIC AND TIMELESS DESIGNS.
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Carkeek Design Partners is built on 25 years’ experience designing winning racing yachts that have competed on every major regatta stage and have conformed to all major rule platforms.
forms in recent years.
Tell us a little about your background…
We strive to develop a unique language through design. It’s hard to understand why people like or dislike our work but as long as it excites me and my team we feel it will strike a chord with our audience. I believe the new trends will be intermittently linked to technology, reliability, efficiency and user experience. We´ll see more efficient ´intelligent´ yachts with clean shapes and lines.
I started my journey studying yacht design at Southampton in the UK and qualified in 1994. Shortly after this I started my company specialised in racing yachts ranging from Americas Cup to Volvo Ocean Race and Grand Prix Racing Yachts. This proved a successful formula for many years and in 2011 I decided to broaden my portfolio to include performance superyachts, with the goal to seamlessly combine state of the art naval architecture, technology, design and styling. Today Carkeek Design is based in Palma Mallorca, arguably the global hub of superyachting. Tell us about your company and what you do… Carkeek Design offers a comprehensive range of services enabling us to provide turnkey highly optimised design and engineering solutions to our clients. Traditionally we specialised in high tech racing yachts ranging from Volvo 70s, Maxi, AC and TP 52, however for a while now we´ve refocused our unique Naval Architectural know how and technology into the luxury superyacht and performance cruising sectors, offering clients something truly unique, combining high end naval architecture, cutting edge interior and exterior design styling and state the art engineering. The results are exciting and challenging the market place which is what drives us to push the boundaries. Tell us a bit about recent and current projects that you have been working on, along with any favourite design elements from these schemes. At the moment we continue with our racing yachts, working on the new RAN RACING for skype founder Niklas Zennstrom. We´re also working on a exciting new state-ofthe-art 80 foot high performance yacht. In addition to these projects there is a new TP 52 project as well as a 90ft fast blue water cruising yacht for a family looking to complete global cruising. In the 100+ plus range were designing a 105, 115, 120, 150 and 180 superyachts. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards as we move into 2018? One: Elegance Two: Innovation Three: Client experience and service What would you name as the main factor that separates you as a designer/company from your peers? I think our strong belief and vision for the superyacht market is one of the main reasons and firmly based on creating cutting edge, sleek, innovative, iconic and timeless designs. We strive for an outstanding seamless blend of performance and style in all we create. There are many great designers today and if we continue to remain true to ours design ethos, while also realizing clients dreams then we´ll carve a unique niche in the industry with a loyal following. You must work with such a wide array of key suppliers in your field; do you have any favourite materials and products that you prefer to work with? I enjoy combining different materials to invoke different moods and conversations through our unique design language. Every material has its own story and personality. Every material has a time and place. Carbon fibre remains at the heart of the racing yachts while alloy and steel come into their own above 50m. Structural glass has come along way and has allowed us to create incredible spaces and
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Do you have any predictions for upcoming trends/design directions?
Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. I think materials and processing plays an important role in our design. Structural glass has made its mark on the superyacht industry and we´re pushing the boundaries all the time at a fast pace. New forms driven by energy efficient designs and performance optimisation combined with hybrid and electric propulsion technologies. Advancements in battery technologies driven by new commercially available materials. Hopefully soon technologies such as fuel cells will become more mainstream. What do you feel, as an industry expert, are the biggest challenges the superyacht and private aviation industries are both currently facing and will face in the years to come? Many boats are never used in the way they were designed and because and one our biggest challenges is to communicate these new solutions and languages through more clear, meaningful and transparent design processes embracing and pioneering the latest emerging technologies. Apart from this ongoing challenge, we also have a responsibility to develop and introduce more energy efficient and sustainable solutions. Do you have any plans or news that you would like to share with the industry for 2018? Apart from re-defining and re-shaping how clients view and utilize superyachts, we´re also now actively involved in the development of new age motoryachts. We have the capability to deliver turnkey design solutions, allowing us to conceptualise, create and optimise the state -of-theart Naval Architecture, engineering and style solutions in-house. This opens up infinite possibilities within a given timeframe and budget to progress further than most of our competitors. And now a little about you: The car you drive: Aston Martin, Tesla. Your favourite restaurant: A 4-seater Sashimi restaurant in Kyoto. Best way to relax: Family, sailing, flying lessons, guitar, sculpture and surfing. The place that gives you inspiration: South Africa – Home. Ideal holiday destination: Menorca, Mozambique, Southern Africa, South East Asia and the Aeolian Islands. Final thoughts or words of wisdom: Trust yourself. Be bold and fearless. Failure and success are a state of mind.
CA RKE E K DESIGN
AWARD WINNING DESIGNERS PERFORMANCE RACING AND SUPERYACHTS
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