Andrew studied Art at Central St Martin’s college and then completed a degree in 3D design at Kingston College of Art. He went on to gain experience as a skipper in the Caribbean, followed by a six-year apprenticeship with acclaimed yacht designer, Jon Bannenberg. Andrew formed Andrew Winch Designs in 1986. How would you describe your personal interior design style? My personal interior design style is constantly evolving, and I don’t confine it to a style. I gain inspiration with every project. There is no house style at WD and the scope of our work is broad, to reflect each client’s dreams. What products/services could you not live without when designing? When we sit down with a client, we are not in front of a computer, we are sitting with pens and paper, we need to be able to draw in front of the client, and they need to see the dream come alive before their eyes. What direction do you feel design is moving towards in general terms? We have seen an increase in the use of sustainable fabrics and materials, we incorporate these into our projects where possible. Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future: 1. Home/Family: It is vital that the client’s lifestyle fits seamlessly with yachts, aviation or architectural projects. There has been a significant increase in the number of younger clients with young families, so the projects need to fit into this lifestyle. 2. Sustainability: This will become mainstream as it is a topic individuals cannot ignore. We have projects in the Maldives and the Seychelles where sustainability is a concern. Within Winch Design itself, we are always introducing policies in order to minimalise plastic use and to ensure the company is eco-friendly. 3. Technological Developments: A lot of our clients are very tech savvy and having state of the art technology, from sound systems to spas is of the utmost importance to them. 4. Nature and natural forms: It’s importance to never lose touch with where the inspiration for my designs comes from; nature, the sea.
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5. Individuality: This is the ultimate luxury these days, to express one’s individuality and not have the same as anyone else. If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to product design, what would it be? Never cut any corners. Attention to detail is the most important thing. How important are The Design Awards as recognition of talent and achievement? The Design Awards heightens the profile of an individual, it is an honour to be recognised in front of the global design community. What projects are you currently working on? We are working on several exceptional private properties around the world, including a Cliffside residence in South Africa with one of the best views I’ve ever seen. With regards to yachts, we are close to delivering the 111m Tis, which features both a Winch exterior and interior, as well as a number of other ground-breaking yachts in the works, including Cosmos with Heesen, unveiled at the Monaco Yacht Show 2018. What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months? Our aim is to keep realising our clients’ visions and answer their every desire, to provide them with comfort, privacy and intimacy in every environment. We are building them a lifestyle that crosses boundaries and is not defined. In 2019 we need to continue to design iconic projects! Final thoughts – tell us a little more about yourself... Your favourite food and drink? Pasta and Chateau Batailley. The place that enables you to totally relax? On board my boat. The place that gives you most inspiration? Our studio, The Old Fire Station, on the river Thames.