£4.80
DESIGNING FOR THE FUTURE
0
8
SPECULATIONS ON THE SUPER YACHT
“In the spirit of enabling design, we strive to create in our own foundry and design studio the absolute best architectural hardware and lighting in the world.” – SA Baxter
To witness the artful creation of timeless hardware, scan the QR code, or visit sabaxter.com/foundry
NEW YORK New York Design Center
212.203.4382
LONDON
Chelsea Harbour Design Centre +44 (0)20-8196 2410
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
Raising your project to Excellence
CONTENTS
Avenue Industrielle 4-6 1227 Carouge/Genève GE SWITZERLAND
17
EDITORIAL
18
LUXE ET AL RECOMMENDS
22 LÜRSSEN – KISMET
www.mr-associates-design.com
32
ADMIRAL – OURANOS
40
EXPERTS SPEAK OUT
Ya c h t s & P r i v a t e J e t s - L u x u r y V i l l a s & P e n t h o u s e s - H o t e l s & S PA s - L i f e S t y l e
DISCOVER OUR NEW WEBSITE
www.luxur y-projects.com
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.
48
FEADSHIP – HASNA
56 DESIGNING FOR THE FUTURE 82 KESTREL AVIATION - DREAMJET 96 AIRBUS CORPORATE JETS & ATELIER PAGANI AUTOMOBIL – INFINITO 100 NEXT ISSUE
0207 352 1553
office@juliettebyrne.com
www.juliettebyrne.com
Our Experience - Your Advantage SERVICES:
INTERIOR DESIGN COMPOSITE STRUCTURES INTERIOR REFURBISHMENT MANUFACTURING SEATING SOFT TRIM WOODWORK GALLEYS STOWAGE’S CABIN DIVIDERS FLOORING LAVATORIES EXTERIOR PAINT FACILITIES
Hangar 450, Bi ggi n H i l l Ai rpo rt , Kent , UK, T N16 3BN
RAS INTERIORS
interiors@rascompletions.co.uk
Ras interiors offer full cabin interior solutions for VIP and Buisness Jet Aircraft , to include; the design, manufacture or refurbishment and certification of any and all interior requirements on time & on budget.
+44 (0) 1959 576 757
+44 (0) 1959 576 747
Our skilled staff ensure the highest quality solutions to customer requirements. With onsite capabilities for fabrication, soft furnishing, wood repairs, metal plating, composite manufacturing & refurbishment as well as an accomanying aircraft paint bay, RAS offers a complete and tailored solution for all aircraft.
www.rascompletions.co.uk
WOR M IERREE W O R LLD D PPR R EEMIE
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
GILL SCHMID DESIGN GILL SCHMID DESIGN www.gillschmiddesign.com www.gillschmiddesign.com office@gillschmiddesign.com office@gillschmiddesign.com phone +1 917 225 0562 phone +1 917 225 0562
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 Accounts Paul Jones
P E RFORMA N CE ARIZONA ATLANTA BOSTON CHICAGO DALLAS FLORIDA HAWAII HOUSTON LAGUNA NIGUEL LAS VEGAS LONDON LOS ANGELES AMSTERDAM NEW MEXICO NEW YORK SAN FRANCISCO SCOTTSDALE SEATTLE
nomiinc.com
WASHINGTON DC
45 m Wooden Lamination Motoryacht
ALL YOU HEAR IS THE SOUND OF THE SEA SHIPYARD Evliya Çelebi Mah. Tersaneler Cad. Nuh Sanayi Sit. A blok No:1 34944 Tuzla-İstanbul / Turkey Tel: (+90)216 395 05 64 (+90)216 395 08 78 Faks: (+90)216 395 29 91 OFFICE Postane Mah. Rauf Orbay Cad. Ara Sokak No:4 34940 Tuzla/Istanbul / Turkey Tel: (+90) 216 447 43 40
www.mengiyay.com
Luxury Defined
BESPOKE BRITISH
CRAFTSMANSHIP
By choosing Heirlooms, you can be sure everything from your table and bed linens to bathrobes and towels meets the most exacting standards. Yours – and ours.
+44 (0) 1243 820252 enquiries@heirlooms-linens.com www.heirlooms-linens.com
A Passion for Excellence
Modern Classic Yacht Design
www.kastenmarine.com
THE PENINSULA COLLECTION designed by Terry Hunziker. Shown in marine-grade yacht finish. sutherlandfurniture.com
This month we are looking to the future, talking innovation and the fundamentals, practicalities, ideals and reality of yacht and aviation design with some of the world’s leading names in their field. We are concentrating on a broad spectrum, considering each aspect from the components of the scheme to the project in its entirety and exploring ideas with those who specialise in each area. In fact, you could say this is an issue dedicated in part to “the experts� as elsewhere we are also looking closely at the newseason collections and the people behind them, as recommended and endorsed by designers in the industry.
However, whilst there is a considerable amount of advice, we still found time to leisurely explore key yacht and aviation projects, ranging from conceptual aviation of the near future, to classic superyacht interiors of the present. You will notice this month too that we are re-introducing The Design Society to you; established back in 2005, it has always provided a support function, however for 2017 is gains a new direction and forthcoming issues will carry Design Society News. Busy times at Luxe et al. Until next month Joanne
Luxe et al 19
LUXE ET AL RECOMMENDS
LAUNCHING THE NEW CONTEMPORARY RANGE BY CHRISTOPHER HYDE LIGHTING Every “Christopher Hyde” light is hand made by skilled craftsmen using traditional methods and superior materials. Their classic designs are appreciated wherever style and quality are important. For over 25 years Christopher Hyde has excelled at providing lighting for a wide range of interiors. Their handmade lights enhance prestigious projects around the world. Just launched is a stunning contemporary range of handmade Italian chandeliers, pendants and table lamps. Available in a variety of different finishes; these exciting new ranges compliment the hugely popular traditional collections familiar to Christopher Hyde Lighting’s customers. The new range includes the ‘Dallas’ pendant with its quality cowhide leather strap. Available in three different leathers and smoky or clear rectangular crystal drops. Like many of Christopher Hyde’s lights this piece can be bespoke, made to suit the requirements of your particular project. This contemporary piece will add an edge to any timeless interior. Christopher Hyde’s new Contemporary range is being launched at Focus Design Week at Chelsea Harbour in September. www.christopherhyde.com
CREATING ‘ENDLESS’ – A CRYSTAL SCULPTURE BY MR. VLASTIMIL BERÁNEK Patience, assiduity and a keen eye for detail are just some of the qualities required to craft something as special as ‘Endless’, an azure blue crystal sculpture that’s a masterful synthesis of inspired art and technology. Creator Vlastimil Beránek has spent thirty years sculpting these phenomenal pieces, and he called upon every second of that experience to produce this 130kg visual wonder. Everything starts with an idea and Vlastimil says he draws his inspiration from natural elements to sculpt his worldrenowned crystal pieces. He explained “Since childhood I have been inspired by fire and oceans. I am fascinated with the possible unknown creatures which can be discovered in the magical depth of the oceans.” His sense of awe and wonder for the natural world was the driving force behind the creation of Endless, which he has dubbed the “joy of his life with endless possibilities.”
www.vlastimilberanek.com
FURNITURE WITH CHARACTER AND PROVENANCE BY FBC LONDON FBC London, formed in 2013 by renowned Interior Designer Fiona Barratt-Campbell, create luxury hand-crafted furniture. Fiona’s designs are bold and geometric, reflecting on her travel and adventures close to home, mixing unique designs and finishes to create key statement products to stand out within a room set. The finishes are intricately developed and expertly handcrafted, uniting the parallels between traditional and modern manufacturing techniques. www.fbc-london.com 20 Luxe et al
Luxe et al 21
LUXE ET AL RECOMMENDS
REDFINING THE CONCEPT OF LIGHT SWITCHES BY PLH ITALIA The PLH brand from Epic Srl was created in 2006 to redefine the concept of light switches. The six main collections - Makeup, Skin, Keyboard, Slim, NEO and 24K are designed to satisfy the client’s needs from shape, materials and finishes, while still being compatible with the standard wall-boxes worldwide. Slim is a collection of elegant modern switches which will give a touch of delicate refinement to any environment. The small plate, made of solid aluminium or brass, can fit up to four push buttons or toggles in extra low tension.
In the picture four plates from the Slim collection.
Internationally awarded, NEO is exactly what it looks like, a push button. An essential and geometrical point on the wall, just 29 mm wide, is yet easily identifiable by a broad choice of colors, materials and finishes. Today PLH switches are among the most recognisable products of their kind on the market. www.plhitalia.com
CRYSTAL DREAMS COME TRUE CRYSTAL CAVIAR Crystal Caviar is a Bohemian company, which specialises in chandeliers for private yachts and the biggest cruise ships. They offer the best of Czech glass and craftsmanship available for private yachts, jet aircrafts, residences and luxury hotels. Connecting history of Bohemian glass with unconventional technical solutions and fashionable design, the range of production includes bespoke chandeliers, outstanding decorative glass, crystal furniture and glass art sculptures for luxury interiors. Thier unique designs can be seen in the most luxury interiors around the world. Crystal Caviar take their clients idea and transform it into a chandelier that is elegant and safe. All chandeliers are tested on vibrations to ensure all pieces are safely fixed and all components are silently attached to each other. Components are tested for resistance to the salty sea environment. Prism Bud was designed and created in-house and inspired by natural phenomena. The chandelier is created from luxury handcrafted Bohemian glass prisms. These prisms are titanium plated, a method of glass finish that creates milions of light reflections resembling a rainbow or Northern Light. The creative design has many variations, from a single bud to a several buds together. www.crystalcaviar.eu 22 Luxe et al
SUMARINEYAT.COM.TR
Luxe et al 23
LUXE ET AL RECOMMENDS
HIGH PERFORMANCE LUXURIOUS TEXTILES BY NOMI FABRICS
UNMATCHED DURABILITY BY DIAMOND SPAS INC. In business since 1996, Diamond Spas now ship products all over the world. Diamond Spas fabricates custom stainless steel or copper spas, swimming pools, glass-walled pools and spas, swim spas, cold plunge pools, water features and luxury custom bath fixtures. The only material Diamond Spas uses in its fabrication is stainless steel or copper. All products are TIG welded by their talented team of welders. They also apply their own unique hand buffed finish. Diamond Spas believes metal is the best construction material for custom-built spas. Stainless steel or copper yields amenities that rival other spas with unmatched durability. Neither metals will fade, crack or blister. The Diamond Spas product line is ideal for superyacht design. Their metal vessels weigh much less than traditional pool and spa construction materials. Endless design and equipment options are available. Diamond Spas entire line is custom fabricated exactly to our clients’ specifications. www.diamondspas.com
24 Luxe et al
Nomi Fabrics, the Santa Cruz, CA textile design house who made outdoor fabrics fashionable, offers a complete catalogue of high-performance fabrics for virtually any frequent use area. From the aft-deck of a 150m Lürssen motor yacht, to the flight deck of a Cessna Citation Longitude, Nomi fabrics perform as well as they look. All collections are imagined by owner and Principal Designer Nomi Franklin. Her designs are sparked by a life-long interest in the ancient and diverse cultures of the world. Each hand-drawn design is translated to a woven textile design through a painstaking product development process. A color palette of sophisticated neutrals and earth tones and classic bolds, a vast selection of patterns inspired by geo-cultural influences, lush textures and numerous style options make Nomi Fabrics one of the most frequently specified performance textile lines across the continents. Durable, UV resistant, and stain resistant, your projects will enjoy years of worry-free performance. Nomi Fabrics are highly resistant to pilling, are bleach-cleanable, possess Anti-Microbial properties, and are UV Resistant. Available through to-the-trade showrooms and directly from the company’s design studio in CA, orders, be they large or small are processed with care and attention. With superb hand and intricate details, all of Nomi’s high performance fabrics are designed to provide the ultimate in comfort. Luminous, polished threads or subtle solids, woven into an impressive selection of chenille’s, solids, patterns and textures are the essence of Nomi High Performance Fabrics. www.nomiinc.com
Glass-Walled Pools & Spas Spas Swimming Pools Cold Plunge Pools Water Features Luxury Custom Baths Built to Client Specifications Sustainable Durable Sophisticated
A r c hi t ec t : Jose Fernando Vasquez/HM Architects
Diamond Spas
Custom Stainless Steel & Copper Aquatic Products Residential Commercial Specializing in Rooftop Pool & Spa Installations
1.800.951.spas (7727) 720.864.9115 fax 866.605.2358 www.diamondspas.com info@diamondspas.com
Luxe et al 25
26 Luxe et al
TIMELESS, YET AHEAD OF ITS TIME Lürssen – Kismet
Luxe et al 27
28 Luxe et al
Luxe et al 29
30 Luxe et al
Luxe et al 31
32 Luxe et al
Luxe et al 33
“
“
MY GOAL FOR THE NEW KISMET WAS A YACHT THAT MANY YEARS FROM NOW WILL BE TIMELESS AND YET STILL AHEAD OF ITS TIME.
Kismet, delivered by Lürssen in autumn 2014, was built as a replacement 95.2-metre upgrade yacht from the owner’s previous award-winning 68-metre Kismet. The owner pushed Lürssen to test its own boundaries engineering-wise and to create a yacht ahead of its time, while also being the ultimate entertainment vessel afloat for welcoming friends and family. Lürssen explains that “the owner’s brief was demanding however we believe our engineering expertise has surpassed his wishes. Our thanks go, of course, to good design and communications with the designers”. Kismet was designed by two leading names in contemporary design – Espen Oeino International for the exterior and Reymond Langton Design for the interior. The owner was involved in all aspects of the design, including the external appearance. Espen Oeino recalls “the foundations for the design of Kismet were laid shortly after the client had taken delivery of his previous Kismet… The stakes were high as the previous Kismet was an award winning design that – by the time the order for the new Kismet was signed in October 2008 – was already a favourite in the charter market. The client’s brief was clear – the new yacht had to be better in all respects with particular emphasis on corporate entertainment and charter. To this effect the floor plan was carefully laid out with very valuable input not only from the client himself but also from his captain, project manager Robert Moran and the purser who had been working with the owner for a very long time”. The brief given for the overall style of the yacht was to be “Champagne & Caviar”; a reflection of the intention that the yacht should be a perfect venue for elaborate parties and entertainment of friends, whilst also being a luxurious but comfortable family retreat; this strongly influenced the selection of materials and the schemes used throughout the design; warm golden, honey tones in metalwork,
34 Luxe et al
marble and textiles, with deep, rich timber and leathers providing contrast. Pascale Reymond of Reymond Langton Design explains that “the client requested that the new design showcased the size and scale of the new 95m project, with the layout carefully planned to give a true sense of perspective of the vessel, with double-height areas, openings in decks and uninterrupted sight lines connecting the spaces”. The main feature that sets Kismet apart is the impressive, double-height entertainment area that spans the aft section of the Main and Upper decks. This dramatic area is emphasized by architecture that is a rich, contemporary interpretation of Art Deco themes, characterised in the sweeping staircase that unites the two decks, framed uniquely by two full-height video walls, with a formal reception and lounge area leading to a comfortable sports clubroom that converts into a cinema on the Main deck. An external dining area flanked by buffets, looks over an open fire pit, with an integrated waterfall feature. Above, the main external dining area has sliding glass screens to completely enclose it, forming a winter garden. The owner’s Deck features a lockable private observation platform with a ‘star bed’, overlooking the Sun Deck. This deck has a swimming pool with integrated Jacuzzi forward whose aft end forms the skylight of the lift shaft, all tied together in a waterfall arrangement. The private sunbathing area is accessible only via a spiral staircase with the mast structure leading to it. The concealed sliding doors and thoughtful arrangement of the rooms means that this entire area can play host to lavish parties, or be divided into smaller, more intimate spaces. Rich, deep woods, leather and stone is used to unite the area, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. On the Bridge deck, the practicality of the layout is again shown by a more informal Beach Club lounge that can be
transformed into a disco nightclub, with a large sports bar that opens out onto the expansive aft deck that doubles as a perfect dance floor. The Art Deco influence continues forward on the Main deck to the main guest accommodation with three guest suites that are characterized by their own individual Deco and Japanese inspired themes, and two, generous Art Nouveau styled VIP suites. In the Upper Deck Owner’s Suite a relaxing ambience is introduced with a subtle romantic theme inspired by Coco Chanel that is expressed in the Lalique style lighting adorning the mullions that frame the full-height windows, the dramatic fireplace surround at the foot of the bed, and the striking stone pillars and intricate inlays in the spacious bathrooms. The inclusion of a comfortable office and private foredeck lounging area allows the owner’s Suite to be a self-contained, secluded retreat at the heart of the yacht. A Persian influence is found on the Lower Deck, with a fully featured Spa, Beauty Salon and Gym that include many of the decorative elements that can be found throughout a yacht that is filled with striking, intricate details; hand-crafted mosaic artworks in the bathrooms that reflect the individual character of each suite, carved stone artworks, exquisite bespoke furniture perfectly tailored to each room, embossed leather and specially commissioned artworks are found throughout, giving Kismet a rich texture that delights the senses. Kismet’s owner states: “My goal for the new Kismet was a yacht that many years from now will be timeless and yet still ahead of its time… I wanted to balance awesome with welcoming. In essence I wanted to design Kismet with others – not me – in mind. Walt Disney once famously said, ‘If you can dream it, you can do it.” When you experience Kismet, you know this to be true. And for that, Lürssen should be extremely proud.”
LUXURIOUSLY SIMPLE Admiral - Ouranos
36 Luxe et al
Luxe et al 37
38 Luxe et al
Luxe et al 39
40 Luxe et al
Luxe et al 41
“
“
THIS YACHT ESTABLISHES A NEW LUXURY IDEA, MADE OF PURITY AND LINEARITY.
Not every yacht is a floating palace with crystal chandeliers and door handles adorned with diamonds. Not that there’s anything wrong with extravagance in the superyacht world, it is after all the best place for it. But the interior of the Admiral 50 ‘Ouranos’, launched this year by The Italian Sea Company, is a subtle reminder that the “less is more” approach is still very much current in the world of high-end cabin design. The product of GMC Architecture and the Admiral Centro Stile, the interior of the Admiral ‘C Force’ 50 is without doubt a welcome union of tradition and innovation. This really is a home away from home for the owner, who commissioned the design and build with his family in mind, with an understated but elegantly fluid design giving the cabin a unique ‘cosy luxury home’ vibe throughout. Do not be fooled by the distinct lack of glitz however, as no expense has been spared with the high-end furnishings. Walls and corner spaces have been brought to life with outstanding, visually appealing art pieces, and materials throughout the cabin are of the finest quality. The design is a refreshingly simplistic interpretation of luxury, as architect Gian Marco Campanino explained “This yacht establishes a new luxury idea, made of purity and linearity; sophisticated atmospheres, subtle colour shades make this interior something very cosy although definitely luxurious. Precious materials and art pieces speak for themselves; without being a glitzy boat, she best represents the new ideal of elegance”.
42 Luxe et al
Being a repeat client, the owner is no stranger to commissioning such builds, and all his requests have been carefully met by GMC and Admiral Centro Stile here. The cabin’s lighting is no exception in this respect. Thanks to the full headroom vertical windows on either side of the cabin, the whole interior is awash with an entirely natural glow. Moving away from the upper levels and down to the lowest of the yacht’s three decks, all of which are accessed by a steel and glass elevator, a row of guest cabins can be found. Passenger comfort has clearly been factored in to the yacht’s overall design concept, with three of these private suites being classed as ‘VIP’, and the remaining two being twins with Pullman beds that can extend into doubles. Comfort and space was also the main priority in the master bedroom, which is placed forward on the main deck and completed by a private office, a spacious master bathroom and a walk-in wardrobe. As expected, the fixtures and fittings are stylish, smoothly integrated and devoid of any sharp or abrupt edges. Moving across to the common spaces and there are two large saloons. One is located on the main deck and the other situated on the upper deck. The main deck saloon boasts a dining area for owners and guests, with comfortable sofas and a relaxation area on hand for some post-dinner chill time. The upper deck spreads almost the entire beam of the yacht and has its own cinema corner and, of course, a bar.
The most prominent design feature of the yacht is within the two main living areas, as they are connected by continuous full headroom side windows which go from the main deck sideways up to the upper saloon ceilings, offering awe-inspiring sea views. This feature is enhanced further on the main deck, where the bulwark has been integrated with a large glass surface to increase the side view. An area most likely to be used and enjoyed more than any other is the beach club, which is the most iconic feature of the Ouranos. The beach club offers in and out spaces to owners and guests, which is not what would ordinarily be expected with this aspect of a yacht. The interior area of the beach club is actually the wellness club of the yacht, featuring a massage corner, a gym and a day head. This space is directly connected to the main saloon through a dedicated staircase and to the external terrace through a sliding watertight door. The beach club may be open and enlarged further thanks to the two side opening hull ports, which create two other terraces on the sea. This makes the club area of the 50ft yacht much bigger than on other yachts of similar and even bigger sizes. This area is finished with a beautifully natural teak. The interior of the Ouranos is a fine example of subtle and personal luxury. It doesn’t matter if she’s meandering between the Caribbean islands, moored in a harbour in Monaco or slicing a path through the Atlantic Ocean, those on board will feel very much at home.
BRINGING TOGETHER AN INDUSTRY
Established in 2005, The Design Society prepares for a New Era
“ THIS IS MODERN
DAY PR FOR THE DESIGN ELITE.”
“ this is modern day PR for a design elite “
There are many professional bodies, of the industry - the design elite perhaps, societies andThere organisations that claim to one couldofsay. are many professional bodies, the industry - the design elite perhaps, societies and organisations that claim to one could say. offer their members a unique service; the offer their members a unique the reality is however that, certainly in service; the However, “elitism” is not good, it could be reality is however that, certainly in the “elitism” is not nor good,isit it could design sector, their services appear to be argued, itHowever, is neither inclusive fairbe design sector, their services appear to be argued, it is neither inclusive nor is it fair very similar. Aimed at start-up and emerging and put simply the term “society” suggests very similar. Aimed at start-up and and put simply the term “society” suggests companies, they offer courses, self-claimed a broad all-encompassing reach and whilst I emerging companies, they offer courses, a broad all-encompassing reach and whilst I accreditations and, to put it plainly, flog would agree in literal terms, this case self-claimed accreditations and, to put it would agree in literalin terms, in thisI feel case add-ons like plainly, a cheap airline. So ,we have a design society/ professional body cannot flog add-ons like a cheap airline. I feel a design society/ professional body chance to purchase insurance, to sit ininsurbe all things the existing So, we have a chancepay to purchase cannottobeeveryone. all things toSo everyone. So the a supplier’s showroom and listen to them professional bodies that I may have ance, pay to sit in a supplier’s showroom existing professional bodies that seem I may and listen them didhave mocked have seem have mocked in my opening “pitch”, apologies - did I to use this“pitch”, word, I apologies should -to in to my opening paragraphs, this word,purchasers I should say “speak”, they have market say “speak”, toI use prospective in the to well theyparagraphs, have theirwell market and their rightly so, prospective purchasers in the form of the and rightly so, however The Design Society form of the wide-eyed and inexperienced however The Design Society going forward and inexperienced designer who forward will focus on the work of the designer whowide-eyed has paid for the “course” and is will focusgoing on the work of the world’s leading has paid for the “course” and is attending world’s leading design names. There will be attending for for a “credit”. design names. There will be no courses, a “credit”. no courses, credits or add-ons to purchase. credits orThis add-ons to purchase. This is not ait is not a direct-sales organisation, Let’s be clearLet’s and be honest, we are not talking direct-sales organisation, it is a professional clear and honest, we are not talking is a professional body for those who have Open University arehere we,are wewe, body who have achieved a certain Opendegrees Universityhere degrees we for those achieved a certain standing and stature are talking are basic training, dateddated sales and stature within industry talking basic training, salesstanding within the industry onthe a global scale.on techniques start-up designers can scale. techniques and start-upand designers who can who a global bring little benefit interms tangible Its aim is quite simply to bring together a bring little benefit in tangible toterms the to the suppliers presenting to them. Please do within the market suppliers presenting to them. Please do Its aim isclearly quitedefined simplysector to bring together a as a not think for a minute that I am disparaging whole. All members will work at a certain not think for a minute that I am disparaging clearly defined sector within the market as a another business, although to be fair I am a level within the industry, must be awardanother business, although to be fair I am a whole. Allwinning members will work at a certain level little. Yet here we are all setting ourselves or acclaimed names in their own little. Yet here we are all setting ourselves within the industry, must award-winning up to be pulled apart, it’s a part of life. In right. There will be be membership opportuup to be pulled apart, it’s part of life. In this or acclaimed names in their own has right. this instance though, we are keen to move nities for suppliers whose work been instance though, are keen to move design away industry There willendorsed be membership opportunities for awaywe from the stereotypical by members. Yes, we are bringing from the stereotypical design supplierstogether whose work has been organisation aimed at theindustry newly selfapthe design elite. endorsed Essentiallyby this is build aselftrue Design dayare PRbringing for the design elite. the organisation pointed aimed“designer” at the and newly members.modern Yes, we together Society that theDesign established end elite. Essentially this is modern day appointed “designer” andrepresents build a true design Society that represents the established end PR for a design elite.
For information on The Design Society please contact pr@thedesignsoc.com
44 Luxe et al
thedesignsociety Luxe et al 45
THE EXPE SPEAK OU
46 Luxe et al
STEPHANIE BENNETT PRESIDENT DIAMOND SPAS, INC.
Which sector do you specialise in?
RTS T
Manufacturing - Diamond Spas fabricates stainless steel or copper spas, swimming pools, glass walled pools and spas, swim spas, water features, cold plunge pools and luxury custom bath fixtures, built to client specifications at our facility in Colorado USA. ls the Superyacht/Aviation market an integral part of your business/large percentage of your market? Diamond Spas sells to the top 1% worldwide. Within the past 10 years we have expanded our reach into superyachts and aviation. We are a perfect fit for the superyacht market. Our metal vessels are light weight. Diamond Spas can accommodate just about any shape and size vessel our clients are looking for. How long have you worked in this sector? 21 years What other sectors do you work in? Residential, Commercial, Hospitality, Commercial Cruise Liners and Educational Institutions. If able, please give details of your recent interesting projects and your direct involvement/ participation in these projects. Over the past 21 years, Diamond Spas has been involved in many elite projects spanning the globe. We have fabricated products for superyachts, cruise ships, politicians, movie stars, famous athletes, elegant 5 star hotels,
college campuses, all the way down to the high end home owner looking for a beautiful aquatic product fabricated to satisfy their specific wants and needs. lt is difficult to pin point one or two particular projects. They are all interesting and we appreciate the opportunity to be included in them. Please talk us through your process of design, build and application for your products, where applicable. Our process starts with the prospective client reaching out to a member of our sales team. Once the product(s) and equipment have been designed, the project moves to engineering. Our engineering teams draft series of prints showing every aspect of the project down to the smallest details. Once prints are signed off by the client, the project moves to welding, plumbing, finishing, crating and out the door. What do you feel separates you as a company from your competitors? Diamond Spas engineering teams are some of the best in the industry. We have the knowledge and technology to fabricate multiple seating arrangements, varied depth seating areas, hydrotherapy exercise areas, coo/ down areas, acrylic / glass walls, vanishing edges, water features, waterfalls, optic fibre lighting, the options are endless. Not only do we produce a superior aquatic product, we offer responsive customer service. We have hands on customer service reps that make sure our clients have the support when needed. This philosophy of taking customer service to a higher level has awarded Diamond Spas a Gold Star Rating with the Better Business Bureau since 2008.
Luxe et al 47
ENRICO CORELLI
MARK LISSAUER
CEO EPIC SRL, PLH ITALIA
DIRECTOR CHRISTOPHER HYDE LTD
Which sector do you specialise in? Studying, designing and engineering switches Is the Superyacht/Aviation market an integral part of your business/large percentage of your market? It is an important part of our business together with the residential and hotel sectors.
and dimensional analysis. We produce directly in-house the prototypes with 3D printers, then we submit to the Client and the Architect finishes, materials and costs analysis before the production, always interacting with the technical offices to finalize the installation process. What do you feel separates you as a company from your competitors?
The main other areas PLH works in are the residential and hotel sector.
Our products are directly made out the solid of the material: aluminium, brass, copper, wood. Made in Italy, product engineering and customization of the single piece, together with artisanal finishing procedures make PLH unique. There’s no limit to what we can deliver. The essential shapes of our products, with the careful use of materials, allow us to establish the brand in the market with a cross-sectoral approach.
If able, please give details of your recent interesting projects and your direct involvement/participation in these projects.
Have you considered what product/collection you are going to enter for The International Yacht & Aviation Awards 2018?
For years we’ve been working with Ferretti Group and our products are installed on Customline and Riva yachts in particular. Our standard products in their infinite color and material variations, usually satisfy the Client’s needs, even if we are involved many custom projects in the residential sector. In the Yacht sector, in particular, we produce special versions of the Slim collection for Customline: “Navetta 37” and the new “Navetta 33”, besides the Tankoa’s “My Vertige”.
The Slim and NEO collections are going to have important upgrades in the near future that could be suitable for the Awards.
How long have you worked in this sector? Our Company exists since 1996 but we focused full time on this specific sector since 2012. What other sectors do you \ work in?
Please talk us through your process of design, build and application for your products, where applicable. PLH tends to follow all the productive processes starting from the product sketch to the first phase of ergonomic
48 Luxe et al
In the picture a NEO button with led circular light.
Which sector do you specialise in? Luxury Residential and Hospitality Lighting Is the Superyacht/Aviation market an integral part of your business/large percentage of your market? No, at present it’s a small percentage. We are introducing new ranges of luminaires this year to increase our appeal to this important market How long have you worked in this sector? 14 years What other sectors do you work in? High-end residential, the odd Royal palace, luxury hotels and restaurants. If able, please give details of your recent interesting projects and your direct involvement/ participation in these projects. Christopher Hyde worked with a French Interior Designer to redesign a new café in Paris. The team at Chelsea Harbour assisted the client and they chose one of our more ornate lanterns to compliment the café’s new oriental style interior design. The effect looks stunning. Please talk us through your process of design, build and application for your products, where applicable. Every “Christopher Hyde” luminaire is handmade by skilled craftsmen using traditional methods including low wax casting to produce exquisite cast luminaires. Using their artisan skills we are able to manufacture almost anything our client desires. Many architects and designers approach the company to produce bespoke designs for a wide range of interior projects.
What do you feel separates you as a company from your competitors? We create and are proud of our bespoke traditional range that is uniquely Christopher Hyde, which is what we are known for within the lighting industry. Working within the Superyacht/ Aviation sector must be different than domestic and commercial markets, have you found this to be the case? Often the concepts are the same, and now with advancements in LED technology we are able to manufacture luxurious products that are truly energy saving, and all superyachts want to reduce the power requirement on board. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years? The LED light engines are now much better with good CRI and Ra values which can greatly enhance the interior designer’s vision of their concept. We can control the LED fixtures with many control systems using the 1-10V or DALI protocols. What are your current plans for 2017? We are launching Christopher Hyde’s new Contemporary range at Focus, at Chelsea Harbour in September. Do you have any predictions for upcoming trends/ design directions? We have seen the finishes in the luxury residential market transitioning to warmer and softer finishes, Rose Gold and Satin Brass as examples.
VLASTIMIL BERÁNEK
NOMI FRANKLIN OWNER AND DIRECTOR NOMI FABRICS, INC.
Which sector do you specialise in? Residential, commercial, superyacht, aviation, hospitality, contract. Is the Superyacht/Aviation market an integral part of your business/large percentage of your market? Yes, it is a very important part. How long have you worked in this sector? 30 years give or take. What other sectors do you work in? All design related sectors. If able, please give details of your recent interesting projects and your direct involvement/ participation in these projects. With Indochine, my newest Chinoiserie design, I set out to bridge the design gap between residential and commercial, filling a void with classic motifs that are oftentimes only used in high end residential. Please talk us through your process of design, build and application for your products, where applicable. My designs are geo-culturally inspired. I like to do handdrawings which really allow me to exercise my creativity to the fullest. We look at colour, all dimensions of colour. The drawings go to the mill; I work with the mills myself to ensure the final product meets my specifications.
> Assorted neutrals by Nomi Fabrics, Inc
ARTIST
What do you feel separates you as a company from your competitors? My artistic background and how I can take elements of historic decorative arts throughout the ages and translate them into a design that’s appropriate for today’s client. Working within the Superyacht/ Aviation sector must be different than domestic and commercial markets have you found this to be the case? Not really, all sectors demand the same attention to design, quality, delivery and performance.
Which sector do you specialise in? I am a sculptor. I like to work with bronze, wood and stainless steel, but the material I love to work with the most is bohemian crystal. Properties of this crystal are just amazing: it allows me to work with reflections and light and sometimes the magnifying property and the sparkle of crystal allow me to create amazing effects. Is the Superyacht/Aviation market an integral part of your business/large percentage of your market?
Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/ affected your work in recent years.
Most of my sculptures end up in private collections and museums, however several pieces are also installed on yachts. I know one of my pieces has been installed on a private aircraft.
Groundbreaking new finishes that produce remarkable hand and texture of the yarns through the spinning and finishing process.
How long have you worked in this sector? I’ve been sculpting for forty years, but it wasn’t until 2007 that my pieces began being installed on yachts. What other sectors do you work in? I create art photography. If able, please give details of your recent interesting projects and your direct involvement/participation in these projects.
Allegory of Love and Justice’. It will take me several more months to finish. The project is essentially a collection of crystal sculptures which symbolise lasting unchangeable values. Please talk us through your process of design, build and application for your products, where applicable. My work always begins with thoughts and opinions. Every one of us has some unanswered questions in life and are searching for answers. The sculptures help with this process. The ocean is an endless source of inspiration for me; it guards its own undiscovered secrets and principles. I create a small model at first. Then I look for the right size for realisation of the sculpture and solve the technical aspect, especially the way of fixing. The creation of the sculpture then begins with the mould. The mould is placed in an electric furnace and heated to the melting point of the crystal, which softens and fills the cavities. Then the mould has to cool down very slowly. This process can take several months, but it achieves the optimum tension-free condition inside the whole glass piece. The polishing process then begins and the metal parts are applied. When you stand in front of the completed sculpture after this long process, it truly is a miracle.
The project I am most excited about right now is an underwater exhibition of my sculptures, which happened at the end of July in Mallorca. The crazy people at ArtSiO Gallery and PETER diving submerged my sculptures onto the seabed! It was first ever underwater exhibition of crystal sculptures in the world and I am honoured to have my sculptures selected. I am also just finishing a big project in co-operation with ArtSiO Gallery named ‘Kingdom,
Luxe et al 49
MAREK LANDA
FIONA BARRATT CAMPBELL DIRECTOR FBC LONDON
FOUNDER AND OWNER CRYSTAL CAVIAR COMPANY
Which sector do you specialise in? We specialise in the production of art chandeliers for yachts and residences, and production of crystal sculptures for artists. Is the Superyacht/Aviation market an integral part of your business/large percentage of your market? Yacht and residential markets are our core business. How long have you worked in this sector? Marek Landa Company, which owns Crystal Caviar has been active on the luxury crystal market since 1995 and Crystal Caviar by itself from 2010. If able, please give details of your recent interesting projects and your direct involvement/participation in these projects. Recently we designed, built and installed large chandeliers for a private palace in Jeddah. We also installed a 1500kg chandelier in a private palace in Riyadh. And recently we also installed a 13m-long chandelier on board a 100m superyacht. Please talk us through your process of design, build and application for your products, where applicable. The most exciting projects are where we can design and build pieces nobody has before. For example, we are now designing - with Mr. Jan Frydrych possibly the most expensive art chandelier on the planet. It will consist of optical components made from the same optical glass which was used to produce the lens of the Hubble Telescope. From the client’s brief, we develop the idea further and present final design back to the client. The client makes his/her comments and as soon as the final design is approved we start the production of the chandelier or sculpture.
50 Luxe et al
What do you feel separates you as a company from your competitors? We can do things that nobody else can. There aren’t many companies in the world who are using renowned artists to produce unique chandeliers. As well as this, we have raw materials in storage left by companies that closed many years ago, material which nobody else access to. We use this to create our bespoke pieces. We test our chandeliers for safety and vibrations, which is why our chandeliers on board a moving yacht never rattle, and pieces never fall down. This is our speciality: Creating unique and safe chandeliers for our clients and their yachts. Our chandeliers aren’t just chandeliers, they’re pieces of fine art. Do you have any predictions for upcoming trends/design directions? There is a much bigger number of super-wealthy individuals in the world today, and more and more of them require unique crafted pieces. More people require not only beautiful but also artisanal pieces, which require skilled craftsmen. There are less and less skilled craftsmen operating and we must train the new generation with the old craft secrets.
Which sector do you specialise in? Luxury furniture for residential hospitality and yachts. Is the Superyacht market an integral part of your business/ large percentage of your market? It is currently a growing part of the business which we are actively expanding. It is a very important sector for our future growth. How long have you worked in this sector? My other business, Fiona Barratt Interiors, started 11 years ago. This is when I really started working in the luxury service market. Then 4 years ago we founded FBC London due to my seeing a gap in the market for the unique and specialist finishes and design styles of furniture that we were offering. Is being a designer something you’ve always wanted to do from a young age? Interior design? Yes definitely. I started the furniture brand because I was designing a lot of bespoke pieces for clients. This was a result of Not being able to find particular pieces and textures that I wanted. We had such a fantastic response from bespoke pieces we had Designed if felt the next step was to actually start our own brand. Please talk us through the design inspiration for your products. The inspiration for our product range predominately comes from nature, the textures produced, the colours and patterns as well as from Roman history. I’m from Northumberland, my husband and I have a house up here, so growing up I have been surrounded by World Heritage sites, particularly Roman
history. We are surrounded by Roman world heritage sites which provide a plethora of inspiration. From the architectural ruins, their clothing, tools, cooking utensils, jewellery, armour etc., including old forts and everything. What do you feel separates you as a company from your competitors? Our textures! We have such a unique array of finishes. We use a combination of very strong and unusual shapes alongside unique textures. For example, you might have a very heavy textural finish sitting alongside a high-gloss veneer. We use a vast array of processes and techniques to produce our products and finishes, e.g. we are using bronze sand casting, a 3000-year-old technique alongside CNC laser cutting. Have you considered what product/collection you are going to enter for The International Yacht & Aviation Awards 2018? We have two I would look at entering, our most popular ranges, the City range and the Byethorne range. The range consists of bedside tables, chest of drawers and large credenza cabinets. We have also just launched TV units which would be great for the yacht market because it’s a beautifully finished standalone unit with varying and unusual textures and finishes.
FURNITURE | KITCHENS | LIGHTING | WALLCOVERINGS | ACCESSORIES The Showroom | 66 Pimlico Road, London, SW1W 8LS | +44 (0) 20 7730 9555 The Studio | 12 Francis Street, London, SW1P 1QN | +44 (0) 20 7828 6591 info@fbc-london.com | www.fbc-london.com
Luxe et al 51
52 Luxe et al
FAMILY FUN AT ITS FINEST Feadship – Hasna
Luxe et al 53
54 Luxe et al
Luxe et al 55
Feadship has recently launched the 73-metre Hasna, built for an Australian owner, from their facility on Kaag Island. The client is a proficient yachtsman who has poured all his considerable experience in life and business into his first bespoke Feadship. Hasna is a true family Feadship, blending a variety of home-from-home entertainment features within a timeless sculptured exterior and a suave, beach chic interior, both created together with UK-based Redman Whitely Dixon (RWD). “The story of this Feadship very much revolves around the journey of the client and his family,” says Feadship director Jan-Bart Verkuyl. “He was the first owner ever to give a speech at the start of the build to the entire workforce, sharing his life story and why this Feadship would be so important to him and his family. They were very involved in the build and the owner also flew his friends halfway around the world to share the fun of the construction process with them on several occasions.” Hasna’s layout is a textbook example of how pure custom yachtbuilding works in practice. The engine room has been placed forward of the lower deck suites on board so that guests can have ‘a direct connection’ and easy access to the beach club, allowing the younger members of the family to easily access this prime fun location, which is not placed directly on the stern as usual. Instead, the beach club, which has a gym and a dedicated relaxation area, has large balcony doors that open up to the port and starboard sides. This frees up space for a deep eightmetre-long swimming pool on the main deck aft without compromising on other main-deck features, such as the cinema. The yacht’s length was also extended to provide additional facilities for crew on t he lower and tank decks, such as largerthan-usual cabins, an extra crew lounge and butler’s cabin.
56 Luxe et al
Hasna’s interior configuration has been designed to comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests overnight in 6 cabins, comprising a master suite, 1 VIP stateroom, 2 double cabins and 2 twin cabins. She is also capable of carrying up to 21 crew onboard to ensure a relaxed luxury yacht experience. Everything about Hasna’s design and layout is geared towards her intended use by the family while also ensuring that she will be a fabulous Feadship for chartering purposes. An excellent example is the sun deck, which has an interior section amidships with sliding doors forward and aft. A bar runs from inside the saloon to the exterior aft deck and is divided by the sliding door, the gap for which is cleverly concealed by a sliding champagne bucket. With the doors open and everything ready, guests have 25 metres of deck available, complete with the kind of barbecue & grill set up for which the Aussies are renowned and a three-metre Jacuzzi surrounded by sun pads. This all makes for a relaxing chill out deck during the day, a buzzing party zone at night, and anything in-between that the guests might desire. A smart aspect of Hasna’s design is the way she offers distinctive areas for different generations of the family at various times of the day, while ensuring everyone still feels part of the collective whole, even when some people are indoors and others out. This is in part achieved by ensuring easy access and connecting lines of sight, and also by having a unifying flow of materials throughout the entire vessel. The striking textures include whitewashed oak with contrasts in stained walnut, linens and cottons for the walls with beautiful five-millimetre trims on the panels, and lots of bronze detailing. The overall interior style features a stunning array of woods and finishes: the wellness spa alone includes mother-of-pearl, dark
“
“
THE BRIEF WAS TO CREATE A TIMELESS EXTERIOR PROFILE WITH LOTS OF SUBTLE DETAILS, MANY OF WHICH ARE INSPIRED BY AN AUTOMOTIVE AESTHETIC.
teak, cedar, marble, metal inserts, leather and five different fabrics. The delicate use of smoked eucalyptus in the master stateroom reflects the owner’s heritage, as does a bespoke piece of artwork running from the main deck entrance up to the bridge deck. “The brief was to create a timeless exterior profile with lots of subtle details, many of which are inspired by an automotive aesthetic,” explains Charlie Baker, project manager at RWD. “Hasna’s profile has an understated elegance interrupted by standout features such as the giant swimming pool on the aft main deck with its infinity waterfall and curved glass sections. Profile elements of note include the sculptural mast structure, the subtle scoops that run around the main superstructure, and the large floating stainless steel cap rail. The latter was an incredible challenge to build, one which Feadship executed exceedingly well.” “The owner has been visiting boat shows for twenty-plus years leading up to this moment,” concludes Hasna’s captain Steve Barker. “Having owned and chartered other yachts, he ultimately chose Feadship for his first large build based on a conviction that quality and value for money are paramount. He was not disappointed: the craftsmanship and attention to detail is outstanding and a testament to the men and women involved. The owner sees Feadship as the pinnacle of custom yachtbuilding – and my experiences here during the build have confirmed that.” This custom motor yacht is a striking example of how to merge style and opulence with a natural sense of warmth and comfort.
DESIGNING FOR THE FUTURE YACHT & AVIATION DESIGNERS DISCUSS DESIGN IDEAS, INNOVATION & THE FUTURE FROM A DESIGN PERSPECTIVE
58 Luxe et al
Luxe et al 59
RAS INTERIORS LIMITED Created in 1996, RAS Completions has quickly grown into a well-recognised and reputable exterior completions company. Founders Russell Pitt and Chris Ransley have spearheaded a talented team that now offer all aspects of commercial and private aviation interior requests, with a particular focus on the design and refurbishment of outdated cabins. There’s not much RAS can’t handle in the world of aviation design. A PERSONAL TOUCH From beginning to end, design is an integral part of what RAS do. Meeting with their clients directly, the team learns in depth the creature comforts required, the styling they desire, and the elements they’ve come to love in other aircraft. Once the vision is understood and accepted, the concept design begins.
CLEVER ENGINEERING As well as recently completing a Gulfstream G550 interior, RAS Interiors undertook the complete cabin refurbishment and modifications of an EASA certified Bombardier Challenger 604 corporate aircraft. Like with many projects, this was no straightforward task. The
The exciting process begins with a number of sketches and 3D renderings of the cabin to help the client better visualise the end result. Once they’re happy with what they see, the real handson work begins, and RAS’ team of highly skilled designers and engineers start work on bringing the vision into actuality. A challenge all design companies face is creating cabins that are truly in touch with their client’s taste and lifestyle.
aircraft had a dated interior that the customer wanted to enhance to a more contemporary style. The customer agreed on new materials and styling, including the darkening of the wood finish, re-styling of seats and re-covering of the sidewalls and ceiling. The end result was a stylish and fresh interior. RAS doesn’t sit idly by and let rapid technological
COMMUNICATION, CURIOSITY AND PROBLEM SOLVING We asked RAS Interiors what they feel are the three most important qualities to adhere to today’s design industry. “As a design company we feel that communication, curiosity and problem solving are the three most important qualities to strive towards. We’ve selected these three because as designers we want the form and function of what we create to meet clients’ requirements. To do this we need proper communication between the client and the design team to understand the vision of the project and to keep both parties active throughout. Curiosity is an extremely important factor in design. Should a
Technology is advancing by the minute, so thinking outside the box is a big part of the design and build process for RAS. Quality control is priority number one, of course. Once manufacturing is complete, the cabin components will go through rigorous certification and quality control measures to ensure they meet all the EASA requirements. The cabin is now fitted and ready to be admired and enjoyed by its owner for years to come.
advancement become an obstacle. Instead, they embrace these challenges and incorporate technology as much as their clients will allow. A good example would be the integration of their VIP Ottoman units into a head of state aircraft with pre-existing mood lighting. They could have simply placed the units and left the mood lighting elements of the cabin to contrast with
the still composite Ottoman units. However, that did not fit their design requirements to incorporate the new units seamlessly into the readymade cabin. A trip back to the drawing board was required to create a mood lighting ring around the edges of the table top of the Ottoman units, and with some clever engineering it matched perfectly with the surrounding cabin lighting.
designer not think outside the box, some of the world’s most beautiful engineering and design work would be non-existent. We consider not only what ergonomically will work best in a cabin but what will set our design apart without becoming obscure Most designers understand that as a project progresses through the concept design stage into manufacturing it’s inevitable to run through an obstacle course of issues. From weight and material concerns to customer preference changes and requests. These last second alterations can make a quick and simple project turn into a lengthy one in no time. This is where RAS’s problem-solving skills are so vital. We troubleshoot all reasonable changes to the design prior to the manufacturing stage and this way we are able to stay ahead of the curve and is one of the many reasons clients come from our competitors to us.”
THE FUTURE OF RAS INTERIORS 2017 looks to continue to be a busy year for RAS Interiors, with their plans including expansion on their list of minor mods and approvals, giving them flexibility to support clients for any request or aircraft type that their clients may bring them. Their ultimate plan is to expand their facilities at Biggin Hill Airport to give them greater capacity to work on a larger amount of projects simultaneously. This would allow RAS to expand to a level that rivals much of their larger competitors, whilst maintaining the ‘personal touch’ and one-to-one relationship they strive to have with each of their clients. 60 Luxe et al
Luxe et al 61
VITTORIO GARRONI PRESIDENT OF GARRONI DESIGN AND CHAIRMAN OF LEYACHTCRUISES
Please tell us a little about your background (education, experience etc.) Architect – graduated at Rome University. Designer – founder of the Yacht & Small Craft Design School, Italian University, La Spezia, Italy.
Industries, Fincantieri Italian Shipyards, STX Finland Shipyards (former Kvaerner MaSa yards) and STX France (former Alstom Chantiers de l’Atlantique). Can you please talk us through your process of design and application.
Professor – Industrial Design School Director, Genoa University, until 2010 and Jimei University in Xiamen, China, until 2014.
From conceptual sketches to constructive drawings, through deep market analyses, technical improvements and industrial production care.
Luxury cruise vessel, passenger ship and ferry designer (Crystal Cruises, Samsung, Sea Containers & other) since late ’80.
Do you have a particular design theme or common influences that run through your projects, i.e. influences from nature such as the sea?
What projects have you recently completed? Garroni Design is lead architect in the Bénétaeu Group and design responsible for the Prestige and Jeanneau Motor Boats brands. LeYACHTcruises is a Monaco established luxury cruise line, operating high class sail and motor yachts for just 12 passengers each, custom designed by Garroni Design. Cruises will start in the 2019/20 season from the French Riviera and develop in the most prestigious seas over the world. What projects are you currently working on? Garroni Design is currently developing constructive designs and operational plans for the 2nd generation of LeYACHTcruises vessels and continues design updates for the upcoming model years of Prestige yachts and Jeanneau Leader sport motor boats. Do you have any favourite key elements of the above projects? Garroni Design is a leader for the best accommodations planning. What companies have you worked with for the above projects? Garroni Design worked with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Samsung Heavy 62 Luxe et al
Market analyses gives us the route, Italian Style culture guiding our pencils. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards in today’s industry? Creativity, mind and expertise. What do you feel separates you as a designer/company from your competitors? Theoretical experience in design, training for over 40 years and teaching in Universities around the world. Practical experience designing boats/ships from 4 to 400m. What current design trends have you identified and do you have any predictions for upcoming design directions? Be careful not to get involved in fleeting trends; be modern but culturally aware. Design is cyclically reinventing and reinterpreting itself. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. Efficiency. Efficiency in design, for better performances. Efficiency in construction, for environmental awareness. Efficiency in motion, for a lot of fun.
Have you faced any particular challenges of integrating technology into your design schemes? We are strongly moving towards alternative and renewable energy sources to achieve zero impact vessels capable to respect the most delicate environment. What are the main challenges you face as a designer in the current market? The delicate balance between quality and costs, efficiency and reliability, beauty and comfort. What do you feel are the biggest challenges the yacht/aviation sector will have to face in the future? Environmental respect. What are your current plans for 2017-2018? Let’s talk about plans for 2019 or 2020, as the next months are fully booked. We trust in a strong evolution to comfort in style, for yachting, and in yacht trends for cruise vessels.
Luxe et al 63
JAY BEEVER VICE PRESIDENT INTERIOR DESIGN - EMBRAER EXECUTIVE JETS
Please tell us a little about your background (education, experience etc.).
Vice President of Interior Design located in Melbourne FL USA.
While at the Ford Design Center in Dearborn MI, I helped develop several production exterior designs. Some of these include the Ford Thunderbird, Mustang, Lincoln Navicross, Mark X, Aviator, Zephyr, Mercury Messenger, Ford Bronco, SYNus, Fairlane, GR-1, Airstream and Interceptor. This time period was marked with the opportunity to work for very talented industry leaders like J Mays, Henrik Fisker and Freeman Thomas.
What projects are you currently working on?
In late 2007, I moved to Savannah GA to begin working on Gulfstream’s new G650 interior. This was the first all new aircraft for Gulfstream in nearly 20 years. This role also included the design and construction of the all new Design Studio located in Savannah, GA. Since introducing the new G650 interior in August 2010 at the NBAA show in Atlanta, GA, I have also had responsibility for managing the design of the new G450 and G550 Elite interior’s that were unveiled in October 2011 at the NBAA show in Las Vegas, NV. Since July of 2012 I’ve had the privilege of serving Embraer Executive Jets as their
64 Luxe et al
We have found much success in our Legacy 500 and Legacy 450 interior designs and due to this we are pushing this DNA into all of our products. Though I can’t specifically state which projects I have been running I can say they are exciting and will break through what we consider aircraft interiors to be today. Do you have a particular design theme or common influences that run through your projects, i.e. influences from nature such as the sea? We do have common design features in our interior DNA plan. Mostly due to the desire to have our aircraft feel timeless and more relevant to our customers and their connection to the analog or nature. Strategically we build our interiors on these three focus points. Ergonomics, craftsmanship and design. The ergonomics piece of this equation is the one that drives us to make sure our customers and passengers are comfortable not only from a seating point of view but from and overall
experience point of view. For instance, is the interior allowing the customer to have access to flight and performance information without having to ask for it thereby achieving a more organic experience. Far too often passengers have to interrupt their conversation or entertainment in order to operate the aircraft features. We believe these things should be present when needed without interrupting the natural flow of the interior experience. If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be? From an industrial design standpoint create canvases that allow the customer maximum material application diversity. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. One of the most interesting technologies available and still maturing is that of windows with self-tinting capability and transparent LCD overlay technology. This is going to be very helpful when saving weight in the aircraft as well as providing convenient control to the interior.
ALISTAIR GILL & VERONIKA SCHMID CO-OWNERS AND DIRECTORS OF GILL SCHMID DESIGN
Please tell us a little about your background (education, experience etc.) Alistair: Educated at the Architectural Association in London, after which I worked in several famous architecture offices, followed by teaching advanced architectural design, first at the AA and then Columbia University here in NY, along with other worldrenowned universities. Veronika: Educated at the Architectural Association in London, after which I worked in numerous famous architecture offices in London and NYC with Cecil Balmond & Richard Meier amongst others. I have been teaching advanced architectural design at some of the most prestigious architecture schools, such as the Architectural Association in London, Columbia, Harvard and RISD, alongside collaborating with world renowned artists on the design, manufacturing and project management for art/ sculptural work since 2001. It was working with Martin Francis where both were really introduced into the world of yacht design, and all its challenges. What projects have you recently completed? Most recently, we have completed a project for Dörries Yachts, a classic explorer for Columbus Yachts and Globe Regal Yachting, along with a project for a 76m explorer yacht. What projects are you currently working on? We are working on a new yacht range (70m, 60m & 50m), a 100m+ superyacht for a European yard, and another limousine tender, this time for a famous European luxury goods company.
Do you have any favourite key elements of the above projects? For these projects, it is perhaps three main ideas which are central: the relationship between exterior and interior, the overall ‘experience’ of being on board and ones’ relation to the water, as well as the transformability/ adaptability of the key spaces on board, along with the vessel as a whole. Can you please talk us through your process of design and application. This differs for each project. As an office, we don’t stick to one design process. Each project is unique. Sometimes it’s perhaps a more conventional linear process from hand sketch to 3D to materialisation. A lot of the time though it can also be starting with complex 3D modelling or gaming software, and maybe working backwards, etc. Do you have a particular design theme or common influences that run through your projects, i.e. influences from nature such as the sea? No, I think as a design office we are not limited in our thinking. We draw from many things, from the physical to philosophies. Importantly though, this doesn’t mean an arbitrary/ random sampling, even though this might be more and more how ‘design’ is thought of today. We think each project requires its own unique perspective. At the end of the day, all that matters is giving the client what they want and more. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards in today’s industry?
1. Giving the client even more than what they wanted, but always something that works, which, in our experience is all too uncommon. 2. To always push the boundaries, not just of technologies but also how we can think about the ‘space’ and ‘experience’ of being on a yacht. 3. The ‘performativity’ of the yacht for all on board, from the owner to the crew, to its environment as a whole. What do you feel separates you as a designer/company from your competitors? Through our experiences and teaching, we have had the real luxury of being exposed to very many design processes, thoughts, technologies and philosophies. So, we are never limited in terms of what we can do for a client. What current design trends have you identified and do you have any predictions for upcoming design directions? We have seen an increasing interest in explorer yachts and 50 – 70-meter vessels. In terms of styling clean contemporary lines with modern minimal interiors. But, we believe design should be timeless and be wary of ‘trends’. What do you feel are the biggest challenges the yacht/aviation sector will have to face in the future? Sustainability, keeping costs from spiralling out of control, and the integration of digital technology for fabrication, but never at the expense of losing the exclusivity and luxury of any project.
Luxe et al 65
M&R ASSOCIATES DESIGN Meet M&R Associates Design. Founded in Geneva back in 2006, this innovative Swiss company offer a ‘boutique’ aerospace design service you simply won’t find anywhere else. Specialising in both exterior and interior design, M&R offer full turnkey solutions to its customers, with access to some seriously exclusive materials and technology. BOUTIQUE AEROSPACE DESIGN Following successful careers working for well-known completion centres and aircraft manufacturers, founders Florent Magnin and Vincent Rey combined their knowledge and expertise to create M&R. Demand has seen them opening further offices in Basel and Paris, and three years ago, André Nillès joined the company to add his extensive experience in marketing and sales in the business aviation industry. Combined, the team has accumulated an impressive 60 years of experience in aviation design. NOT JUST YOUR AVERAGE DESIGN COMPANY You’ll be struggling to find a new or refurbished Business Jet that M&R hasn’t successfully completed projects on, which may explain why they are one of the only design companies officially referenced by both Boeing and Airbus. If a truly bespoke cabin design is what you’re after, you’re clearly in safe hands with M&R. Those kinds of endorsements don’t happen by chance. The pioneering team understands that a cabin must be a subtle but clear reflection of an owner’s way of life and personality. No two results can be the same, which is why Magnin, Rey and their expanding team strive to ensure that the customer’s lifestyle becomes their design style. Remaining nimble and bravely adopting new and exciting design styles is the catalyst to their success. These unique and
pioneering concepts can only be achieved by working in close collaboration with exclusive suppliers. If you want it, they’ll surely find it. Comprehensive project management is another key offering from M&R. They cover everything, from exclusive materials selection, trend boards, 3D renderings for interiors, full technical design package/drawings, exterior design and even challenging completion centres for attractive pricing Nothing is left to chance, with samples being produced for all customers for approval throughout the journey of the project. It’s clear that the company’s continuous desire to create and propose new solutions has become firmly embedded in their DNA and is a big part of their philosophy.
PAST, CURRENT & FUTURE PROJECTS The team has recently been awarded a major contract for the first brand new wide-body aircraft in China: an Airbus A330 200 VVIP for a private owner. M&R is in charge of all interior and exterior design as well as the full project management until final delivery of the aircraft.
Past projects over the last 12 months have seen them work on a new G650 in the Middle East, a VIP B757-200 refurbishment in Europe, Global 6000 interior design projects in North America, and a full Legacy 600 refurbishment in Europe.
A project of this type requires innovative thinking and the very best technology. M&R will use the highest quality 3D renderings, ultra-realistic 3D videos, and the best IT design tools and systems available in the industry to complete the job to the highest possible standard. Currently, the aircraft is under completion in Europe and should be delivered mid 2018.
The company’s next ambitious project is to launch a full collection of highly-customisable loose equipment, not only taking into account the most exclusive materials, but also with a major emphasis on usage and space on board, as well as maintainability of all loose equipment. The first collection should be available by the end of the year, and items will be designed both for private aircraft and yacht owners.
66 Luxe et al
Luxe et al 67
MIKOŁAJ KRÓL CEO & CHAIRMAN - CONRAD SHIPYARD (CONRAD S.A.)
Please tell us a little about your company’s background (founding, experience, length of operation, specialities/focus etc.). Conrad Shipyard is an experienced luxury yacht builder specialising in building highest quality, class approved, steel, and aluminium luxury yachts ranging from 20 to 100 meters in length. We are located in Gdansk, Poland, one of the most historic shipbuilding cities in Northern Europe. Our shipyard employs, in partnership with our parent company Marine Projects Ltd., over 400 of the best specialists in naval construction, complex engineering, old-world craftsmanship, and modern yacht building. We cooperate with the most reliable and professional companies and suppliers in Poland, Europe, and throughout the world based on our motto “highest quality yachts at the best value.” What projects are you currently working on? The Conrad C133 by Reymond Langton was commissioned by Conrad Shipyard to create a graceful 40-meter motor yacht for an experienced yachtsman and repeat client of the yard. The design brief was for an extremely elegant yet aggressive yacht with modern and unique lines, which will remain timelessly stylish. She is built to the highest Northern European standards with the most luxurious accommodations and a layout featuring all the elements of a much larger yacht. We’re pleased to announce that this prestigious creation by Britain’s Reymond Langton married to the proven naval architecture and engineering by Diana Yacht Design of the Netherlands, is now offered as a semi-custom model.
68 Luxe et al
What do you feel, as a company, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards in today’s industry? One: Proven Quality Two: Transparency Three: Understanding the Client’s needs Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. In a lot of ways we feel that there is a global trend towards traditional/classic “hand-made” craftsmanship, which differentiates us from others. While production technology is advancing’ such as 3D printing, it can also be limiting. Our team provides “old-world craftsmanship” which is something we apply to modern yachts, and can be felt in the finish and details of our yachts. Have you faced any particular challenges of integrating technology into your projects? Whilst we do partner with some of the best worldwide names in naval architecture we develop most of our engineering in-house. A good example of that is our Motor Sailer Lunar. World-class design and engineering allow Lunar to combine many advantages of a sailing yacht with that of a motor yacht. This is highlighted by an advanced sails management system, developed in-house, which allows for virtually fully automated sailing. It is powered by a comprehensive hydraulic system which does not only control captive winches, trimming cylinders, and inboom furlers, but also windlasses, thrusters, deck gear, and the aft gate, making the vessel exceptionally easy to handle.
What are the main challenges you face as a shipyard in the current market? When it comes to building a custom yacht, one thing our clients can’t buy is time. Designing a yacht from scratch takes almost a year, before you start building. In partnership with worldrenowned designers like Reymond Langton and A. Vallicelli & C. we are developing a semi-custom line which we call “Bespoke Collection” which gives us a base to start building yachts in a matter of months. The Conrad C133 is the first step for us as a shipyard. What do you feel are the biggest challenges the yacht/aviation sector will have to face in the future? The global political situation currently provides certain uncertainties. What are your current plans for 2017? We are currently working on a complete rebranding of the shipyard. We have been very fortunate to have built some very special yachts with relatively little marketing so part of the new marketing strategy is robust PR strategy to get our name out there as well as Polish shipbuilding in general We are in discussion with several top designer and naval architecture firms to expand our “Bespoke Collection” December of 2017 we are finishing the production of our Conrad C133, which is the biggest luxury motor yacht in Polish history. We are also looking to make certain investments in the shipyard and technology to more efficiently build “semi-custom” yachts.
DAVIDE CIPRIANI CEO & FOUNDER - CENTROSTILEDESIGN SRL
Please tell us a little about your background (education, experience etc.).
Can you please talk us through your process of design and application .
I started working in the engineering part of my family company in its 27th year, before initiating a collaboration with a leading global shipyard. Since this nautical activity began in the year 2000, I have now taken over the management of the company and taking care of my clients with my team.
Starting from the idea or concept, the boat conception, my team creates a virtual image of the ‘unborn’ yacht where lines, look, and dimensions are simulated and verified to ensure they are proportionate and harmonious. This is how we arrive at the main point of the job: when the hull is defined, you face the real and actual Project with three-dimensional hull drawings that optimize shapes and features from the start. The final product may deviate from the first conceptual proposal, in which case, within the design path, there are more concepts that coexist like a track of points that the designer has followed to arrive at the end of his work.
What projects have you recently completed? The Lexus Sport Yacht, completed in February 2017, represents an exercise in style whose purpose is to achieve the maximum expression of the concept of yacht design without having to take into account market needs. Presented in June, the Sessa Fly 21 represents the new flagship of Sessa Marine with a style that really transforms the perception of 21m Yachts. What projects are you currently working on? The Sessa Explorer 64 features key aspects that are common on expedition yachts with comfortable and luxury interiors, but in a 64ft boat. It is currently under construction and will be presented at the Cannes Yachting festival. The Filippetti S55 is a boat with compact and aggressive lines, simultaneously equipped with ultimate comfort and habitable internal space. It will be shown at the upcoming Miami International Boat show. The M60 Motion pulse which aims to concentrate our intuition and most innovative ideas into one experimental and futuristic project.
Do you have a particular design theme or common influences that run through your projects, i.e. influences from nature such as the sea? Our inspiration doesn’t really follow any pattern, but I personally follow the paradigm Future – Well-being – Interdependence, three words taken individually that have an important meaning, but if used at the same time give the picture of the true function of contemporary design. What do you feel separates you as a designer/company from your competitors? True strength lies in the synchronicity between ideas and feasibility that in Centrostiledesign simultaneously speeds up the process with the possibility of being much more daring than other design studios, thanks to a team of technicians with wideranging and diverse skills. What current design trends have you identified and do you have any predictions for upcoming design directions? Current trends converge less and less towards iconographic design and closer to the needs of the ship owner and to the functional use of the boat, as much as its pleasing appearance. In this regard the logic applied to the design and realisation of the Explorer is very timely because it combines everyday life with the experience of living at sea.
Luxe et al 69
MICHAEL KASTEN OWNER OF KASTEN MARINE DESIGN, INC
Please tell us a little about your background (education, experience etc). I’ve repaired and built boats, including my own schooner, designed boats large and small, and sailed across oceans. I’ve worked on the design of boats from 7 feet long to 50 meters in wood, steel, aluminium and composite. Among these, whilst I was involved in the design team of large grp motor yachts, two won awards at Monaco during the year they were presented. What projects have you recently completed? A new 20-meter wooden brigantine, designed as a private yacht for an Indonesian attorney from Jakarta, to be built by the highly talented indigenous boat builders from Sulawesi. What projects are you currently working on? A new 48-meter Indonesian Phinisi for charters in Indonesia, plus two smaller private yachts in metal. Do you have any favourite key elements of the above projects? I have greatly enjoyed learning the Asian traditional boatbuilding methods, which differ considerably from the way we approach wooden boat building in the west. Interestingly, in terms of structure the end result is equally robust. Can you please talk us through your process of design and application. Naturally every yacht design originates as a twinkle in the client’s eye. It is the designer’s role to bring those dreams to fruition. By communicating back and forth, the best solution emerges, and the yacht takes form. Of course, there is a lot of work involved for the design team to translate those ideas into a functional concept, and then by the builder, into a tangible reality. Do you have a particular design theme or common influences that run through your projects, i.e. Influences from nature such as the sea? Over the ages, the sea has taught mankind what works best onboard a boat and what 70 Luxe et al
does not. As a result, the sea itself is the main influence on my designs, plus the demands of physics and engineering, and then of course the wishes of the owner. What do you feel separates you as a designer from your competitors? My designs are mostly traditional / classic, with modern technology applied as appropriate to the vessel type. The term modern-classic is over used these days but my work speaks for itself regarding its true meaning. That said, we employ the most advanced software for design development, analysis, and for construction of the yacht via computer controlled cutting systems. What current design trends have you identified and do you have any predictions for upcoming design directions? My work does not follow ultra-modern styling trends, but for inspiration instead looks back toward classic sailing and motor yachts, as well as the working craft of the past. If a trend is to be articulated among my own designs, it would be toward more robust structure, more comfortable and sea kindly hull forms, and more ergonomic humanfriendly design. Of course, there is a push toward electric propulsion these days. Although the technology is reasonably mature, it is not always the most practical for every yacht. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. Recently the advances in diesel-electric propulsion systems, as well as battery storage technology have made it possible to embrace electric propulsion.
JAMES WHITE & ELLIOT MARCH CO-FOUNDERS - MARCH & WHITE
Please tell us a little about your background (education, experience etc.).
What companies have you worked with for the above projects?
We met in 1996 whilst studying architecture in Oxford. There was an instant mutual appreciation for our design aesthetics and we became good friends. After qualifying as Architects we both went our separate ways for nearly 10 years working in major practices in London. We thought we had something very special to offer that combined architecture & interiors and made the leap in 2009. The rest is history.
It’s important for us to work with the finest artists and artisans, we love to collaborate! We have worked with our good friends at Based Upon on most of our recent projects. The reception desk at Devonshire is a stunning piece of blue resin that we created together.
What projects have you recently completed? We have just completed the interiors for one of the world’s largest super yachts which is a real achievement and looks stunning. Recent land based completions include a boutique residential development in Soho – Royalty Mews, and a private members club with hotel in the city – Devonshire Club What projects are you currently working on? We are working on a mix of residential development, private homes, hotels, members clubs and yachts. Do you have any favourite key elements of the above projects? The mix of residential, members club and yacht experience is really interesting, there is so much crossover in the projects we undertake.
Can you please talk us through your process of design and application. We create interiors very much in the way we approach artistic endeavors. Creating an idea and concept, selecting a palette and then layering with pattern and texture. This is why we say each project is a unique story. Do you have a particular design theme or common influences that run through your projects, i.e. influences from nature such as the sea? Our storytelling approach, this allows us to collaborate with our clients, this could be style, function, detail or a combination. Sometimes it’s a personal story that they want to tell. We then tell that story with the filter of elegance which is our design style. What do you feel separates you as a designer/company from your competitors? Elegance with an edge, whilst all of our projects have their own story there is an elegance which can be seen running through all of our work. The edge is our international inspiration, that element of the unexpected which we like to bring to our designs.
What current design trends have you identified and do you have any predictions for upcoming design directions? In terms of trends we think integration of technology and adaptability are the things to watch. We are blending these with the highest level of detail on the yachting side to get incredible results. 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. Have you faced any particular challenges of integrating technology into your design schemes? The pace of change with technology is a challenge in itself. Over the course of a large complex project of 3-4 years the challenge is to make the technology simple, concealed with the flexibility to upgrade. What do you feel are the biggest challenges the yacht/aviation sector will have to face in the future? 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
Luxe et al 71
PEUGEOT DESIGN LAB With its long list of ground-breaking inventions and its myriad of successes, Peugeot has become a household name in the automotive industry. But the early chapters in the company’s history book tell a different tale to what we’re familiar with today. SUCCESS THROUGH THE CENTURIES The journey begins during the first industrial revolution in 1810, when the Peugeot brothers converted the family grain mill into a metal foundry to manufacture saw blades and other tools. Fast forward a few decades and the French pair launched the first Peugeot salt and pepper grinders, later adding coffee grinders to their growing product list.
It wasn’t until later in the century that Peugeot introduced its first mobility product, first with a bicycle in 1885 and then its first automobile a few short years later in 1889, a steam powered 3-wheeler. It seems the duo’s ingenuity and desire to adapt was coded into the company’s DNA, as it continued to develop its range and expanded into building sewing machines, aircraft engines, boats, household appliances amongst many other varied product lines.
PEUGEOT DESIGN LAB TODAY Jumping forward 207 years and Peugeot are at it again, recently releasing a cordless drill to the market. It’s the first tool launched under the Peugeot brand since the company’s plucky beginnings back in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of France all them years ago. Things seem to be just as varied and diverse at the Peugeot Design Lab in 2017. They’ve recently launched the Peugeot MICRO e-kick electric scooter and are finalising the Peugeot eF01 electric folding bike ready for a launch this summer.
It becomes clear that there aren’t many sectors Peugeot are unfamiliar with - but that being the case - each new product line comes with its own unique challenges. Nowhere else is this more apparent than in the world of yacht building. In their own words, making a boat definitely takes longer than making a kettle, (another product in their seemingly endless list). But whether it’s a coffee grinder, a folding bicycle or a sleek new kettle, they say the design and build process boils down to the same thing: Finding a truly original and innovative idea.
THE PROCESS OF SUCCESS Peugeot say that every single moment of a client’s interaction with a brand needs to be coherent and strong. This means they cannot be satisfied by simply creating a great product, they must also create a complete and satisfying experience. The team breaks down their process of design, build and application in three stages: to Define, Develop and Deliver. Products must be able to tell the brand story in metal, wood and plastic. The design team says that by simply looking at an object we must instinctively be able to ‘feel’ the brand message. Their brand designers set to work to define the client’s brand promise and shape the story their brand wants to tell. Whether its yacht design and build or any other product, Peugeot designers and modellers work with their clients to sketch, develop, and 3D model innovative
72 Luxe et al
creations. All of their automotive tools and experience is available to help design, prototype and visualise the products during the entire development phase. In order to guarantee that a product is successfully developed they must ensure that the end user, marketing, engineering and design are all seamlessly integrated into the industrial process. They say this is the only way to assure that the initial brand and product promises are fully realised by the final product. With their vast experience in both sectors, we asked the Peugeot Design Lab what they feel are the biggest challenges facing yacht and aviation design in the future. They explained: “The current energy transition/ industrial revolution is going to radically shake-up every mobility provider.
“Currently the electric revolution has already completely reshaped the bicycle industry - Peugeot Cycles has seen our product family transformed more over the last 5 years than in the last 130 years. The car industry will be next followed by motorcycles and finally yachts and aircraft.” With 125 years of automotive design experience, an appetite for innovation and creation, plus access to the latest tools and technology, it’s clear nobody is better placed than Peugeot to tackle the challenges that lie ahead.
Luxe et al 73
MATTEO CAPPELLAZZO & MATTIA PIRO CO-FOUNDERS, CO-OWNERS AND CHIEF DESIGNERS - PC DESIGN
Please tell us a little about your background (education, experience etc.).
Do you have any favourite key elements of the above project?
Matteo: I have a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design and a master’s degree in Yacht and Cruising Vessel Design. I work in the design field since 2010 and in marine design since 2012. I worked with E.T. Yacht Design in Santa Margherita Ligure and with Maori Yacht and Novamarine in Costa Smeralda, dealing with design, construction and refitting of luxury vessels and sport yachts but also professional crafts. In 2014, together with my friend and colleague Mattia Piro, we founded our independent studio PC Design.
Matteo: Talking about our flagship project ITALIA, its general and radical dissimilarity is the key element: we tried to design differently but preserving at the same time practicality and functionality. This clearly results in the design of the superstructure and of the air intakes and in the arrangement of the main deck.
Mattia: I have a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in Yacht and Cruising Vessel Design. I initially worked in a yacht design office and then headed in a shipyard, where I deepened the knowledge in the production field of fiberglass, aluminium and steel yachts. And lastly, PC Design.
Mattia: Attention to detail is a key element in developing our projects. Also, a project, for being successful, in addition to developing an aesthetically competitive product, must meet the needs of functionality. We live in the age of design: you often end up thinking that the outward appearance – the styling – is as important as the product’s character and technical quality. Good design is rare and to us, for example, getting the proportions of the exterior correct is a major factor in a design quality.
What projects have you recently completed?
What companies have you worked with for the above projects, if any?
We just designed a 28 feet luxury tender, a 32 feet heavy duty craft, the interior of a 22 meter sport yacht, a 63 meter super yacht and we completed and presented our 25 meter hyper yacht concept ITALIA.
All the design processes were led by us while for different technical and engineering matters we consulted professionals such E.T. Yacht Design, Absolute 2001, CD-adapco, Metis Marine, Twin Disc and Caterpillar to name a few.
What project are you currently working on? At the moment we are designing a 52 feet luxury tender, a 50 meter explorer vessel, a 76 meter super yacht and we are preparing some interior design proposals for a 72 feet yacht.
74 Luxe et al
Can you please talk us through your process of design and application. Matteo: Generally, I start settling main ideas, themes and conditions of the project, then I continue producing several sketches. I analyse them verifying and re-discussing hypothesized solutions
and supposing about new ones: this repeats cyclically until I arrive to the final chosen concept. I develop it preparing the definitive proposal and then the executive project that goes in to production. In general the whole process, but especially the concept phase, could take a lot of time but this results in a detailed and accurate project. Mattia: First, I list key entries that must comply with the project, points that depend on us designers (inwards to the shipyard) and by ship owner request. Then through hand-drawn sketches I begin to think about external lines and at the same time I assume a longitudinal section, fundamental in this design phase. Once I have come up with a preliminary product idea, comparing everything I need with engineering is mandatory to close all external and internal lines and continue with the definitive design. Do you have a particular design theme or common influences that run through your projects, i.e. influences from nature such as the sea? We do not have any common theme that you can find recurring in our projects at the moment, this is because every design is original and unique and has his own peculiarities: sometimes these peculiarities derive from outer inspirations while in other cases we preferred to start from scratch from a blank sheet and without fixing any reference. We plan to expand our PC Design models range in the future marking it out with a family feeling descending from project ITALIA.
MARTIN KEMP FOUNDER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR MARTIN KEMP DESIGN (MKD)
Please tell us a little about your background (education, experience etc.).
Can you please talk us through your process of design and application?
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.
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 projects have you recently completed? 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. What projects are you currently working on? 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.
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 world-class 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.
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. Luxe et al 75
GEOFF VAN ALLER PRINCIPAL NAVAL ARCHITECT AND FOUNDER VAN ALLER HEIN LLC AND VAN ALLER YACHT & NAVAL DESIGN LLC
Please tell us a little about your background (education, experience etc.).
Can you please talk us through your process of design and application?
Three: No matter how you do it, leave your mark
I studied Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering at the University of New Orleans. I continued my education at Westlawn Institute of Marine Technology for specific yacht and boat design. I’ve been involved in more than 50 different superyacht design projects that are sailing around the world today.
Perhaps the most important attribute is to listen to the owner and provide solutions to meet their requirements. We provide designs that consider enabling the crew to service the equipment, provide trouble free cruising and permit maintenance work while in remote locations with guests aboard. I’ve always found that if you can truly provide the owner with what they want, you’ll have a repeat customer.
What do you feel separates you as a company from your competitors?
Do you have a particular design theme or common influences that run through your projects, i.e. influences from nature such as the sea?
What current design trends have you identified and do you have any predictions for upcoming design directions?
I started my company van Aller Yacht and Naval Design after Trinity Yachts was closed. I’ve been successful in providing naval architecture and design services to both previous and new clients. My partner started his company Hein International after being involved in numerous projects in which his operational expertise has enabled upgrades/refits to be handled meticulously with ultimate seakeeping as the backbone of the projects. In the creation of van Aller Hein LLC my partner Mike and I developed the Super Utility Vessel concept. Our SUV concept, once built will be the culmination of fulfilling the owner’s wishes with the ultimate four-wheel drive yacht that’s nearly indestructible, comfortable and reliable.
Since we launched our Super Utility Vessel idea to the world at the Global Superyacht Forum 2015, we have seen some ideas from many other design houses, but fortunately [for us] nothing as nice as our concept. We believe that new owners are interested to explore the world and go where many others cannot. There’s no reason the owners and guests cannot go diving in the morning and skiing in the afternoon.
What projects are you currently working on? A major refit on a 35M superyacht that involves lengthening, new bow, new stern, mast, stability and interior work. New design of a high-speed quad-outboard day boat for a Southern USA gentleman. Do you have any favourite new project? Our current conceptual design is for a Super Utility Vessel that will enable the owner and guest to go anywhere and do anything. We have noticed that many vessels are built that have spaces that are “supposed” to be there but are never used. We believe that the new owner wants to use every space on the yacht and our designs permit this. Please tell us forming your new company and about your partner? I’ve been designing yachts for more than twenty five years and my partner Mike Hein has been a captain and project manager for the same period of time. Individually we have done many projects where we had complete control to design, build and provide the best solutions, we have both been extremely successful and together can benefit from each other’s experiences to collectively provide better designs.
76 Luxe et al
What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards in today’s industry? One: Always do right by the materials, the design and client. Two: Never forget why you’re designing in the first place
Our key aspect is to provide the new owners with the opportunity to work with the same individuals throughout the entire design and build process. Our team will be involved every step of the way including the commissioning and operation so that all the design information is not lost.
Please tell us more about your concept design as we like the idea very much. One of the biggest things Mike & I bring is the capability to solve problems in an effective and simple way. We love the technology that is available in today’s vessels and yet we want to utilize it hidden in plain sight. There is no reason regular maintenance requires the entire space be dismantled to facilitate the job. The design has practical materials of the best quality to provide long lasting enjoyment and performance.
van Aller - Hein LLC Unlimited Navigation Intelligent Quality UNIQ Superyachts
49.9M
55M
73M
www.vanaller-hein.com +1 619 991 0783 Mike
+61 756 414 175 AUS
mike@vanaller-hein.com
+1 228 327 3682 Geoff
LAURA POMPONI CEO & FOUNDER OF LUXURY PROJECTS
Please tell us a little about your background (education, experience etc.).
Can you please talk us through your process of design and application.
Born in Rome but grew up in Ancona where I studied at the Polytechnic University and got 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 traveling 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). Anyway I chose to study engineering because I am really passionate about maths and complicated equations. What truly fascinates me about the construction of a yacht is the intricacy of the process. It’s 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 a long 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 (Italy) 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.
We like to start from scratch, never copy; our designs are the creative translation of the ideas of our clients. We combine art and technology with attention to details. Every project is unique but eventually they come down to the same. The creative process might be the most pleasurable part of the job but Yacht Design mostly is a technical journey. Feasibility in both time and execution is vital to any project. We, if I might be so free to say, at Luxury Projects, gaining from our experience in production facilities, understand Yacht Building as a total concept, in all its aspects. Design needs to be translated into Engineering into a Planning and Budget, then facilitated and subcontracted, executed, commissioned and delivered. Not to forget the logistic nightmare connecting it all. Might sound boring and non-pleasurable but it is part of the game and I have to admit, I’ve got quite good at it.
What projects have you recently completed? Yachts delivered in 2016 MY 90mt Nero – Corsair Vessel Refit MY 38m Heesen Destiny MY 43m CRN Avant Garde MY 42m Heesen Lady Azul What projects are you currently working on? Yachts Work in progress: New 74mt in Italian Shipyard New MY 42m yacht in Spain Extension to 41m of MY Saint Raphael Refit MY 42m Saint Nicholas New MY 52m Motor Sail in Turkey Other top secret projects entering construction across the world. 78 Luxe et al
Do you have a particular design theme or common influences that run through your projects? Nature is one of the best inspirations to use. For any project we get at least some inspiration from it. Modern society has great respect for our planet so yes; inspiration for materials for sure comes from Mother Nature. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards in today’s industry? Innovation, sustainability, the ability really listen to the client. What do you feel separates you as a designer/company from your competitors? True understanding of yacht building, that is; the whole process and all is aspects, though I have to admit we are not the only Interior design studio that is capable of this but still we are quite unique in this. For sure, we are one of the only ones really experimenting and testing innovative materials in our Atelier/Lab.
What current design trends have you identified and do you have any predictions for upcoming design directions? Special finished natural materials, use of LED panels, lighting design, use of glass, less formal more usable spaces, convertible multifunctional furniture, living recreating close to the water, wellness and beauty, health and gastronomy. Please describe any relevant technological advancements that may have influenced/affected your work in recent years. LED technology, AV and IT, maybe even replacing luxury panelling by LED TV or transparent O-LED panels, creating any background or theme thinkable… it is happening… Have you faced any particular challenges of integrating technology into your design schemes? The Biggest problem is exciting vessels with their relative basic wiring systems that can’t cope with the modern equipment used in AV/IT and Domestic Automation, this demands a lot of skills. I there really enjoy my engineering background and often am able to facilitate in a creative solution. What are the main challenges you face as a designer in the current market? 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. What do you feel are the biggest challenges the yacht/aviation sector will have to face in the future? 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.
CHRISTI TANNAHILL SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, INTERIOR DESIGN & ENGINEERING FOR TEXTRON AVIATION INC
Please tell us a little about your background (education, experience etc.). 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. What project are you currently working on? 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. What are the key elements of the above project? 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. 80 Luxe et al
Please walk us through the design process of the project, for example the origin of the design up to its current status.
Do you have a particular design theme or common influences that run through your projects historically?
When the company decided to enter the large-cabin class of aircraft, we knew it was important for us to get customer input from the very beginning of the development process as this is a new class of aircraft for us. In April of 2016, we formed a customer advisory board (CAB), which is comprised of both our current customers and other industry executives operating various products in this class to affirm what customers need in this segment. We have stayed in contact with this group throughout the cabin design process, which has provided us with a valuable constant feedback loop. The input from the CAB members has already led to several design changes throughout the process. We started with a spandex model of the cabin with what we call “paper dolls” that allowed us the flexibility to easily incorporate changes throughout the layout of the cabin. We then turned this into a full-scale cabin mockup, which we debuted to customers just seven months later at NBAA 2016. The cabin layout of the mockup showcases a workspace that will provide for maximum productivity as well as an intimate and more private stateroom environment. The front galley offers a versatile, brightly lit workstation with granite and stone surfaces and state-of-the-art modularity for changing missions. The Hemisphere incorporates fully berthable seats, which will be the widest in the class, and features thermo-electric technology to optimize heating and cooling comfort for passengers.
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 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.
After much discussion with the CAB, the team confirmed that lighting is a very important aspect of the design so natural lighting is abundant with 20 oversized windows optimally placed throughout the cabin in addition to skylights located in the front galley and aft lavatory. The cabin will also feature lavatories in both the front and back of the aircraft, while a best-in-class spacious baggage area will be accessible during flight. Currently, the team is continuing to refine the final cabin configurations and features with the CAB.
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 pre-determined 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 considered what project you will be entering into The International Yacht & Aviation Awards 2018? We are currently discussing this now, but believe our work on the Hemisphere cabin will a great project for consideration.
Luxe et al 81
ROBERT STEPHENS & PAUL WARING PRINCIPALS OF STEPHENS WARING YACHT DESIGN
Please tell us a little about your background (education, experience etc.). Bob: I’ve been doodling boats since about age ten; at 14 my parents gave me an oldschool drafting set and I began designing in earnest. I’ve learned yacht design “on the job”—voracious reading, handson 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. I was a mixed major with engineering as a student. 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 worked together at Brooklin Boatyard for 15 years as the in-house design team, designing custom boutique daysailers and larger yachts while managing large and small projects of all kinds. In 2008, we began forming our own entity as a separate design house and in 2010 we left the boatyard offices moving to our current studio in Belfast, ME. What projects have you recently completed? Bob: The most recent launch is a 24-foot runabout, varnished mahogany in the style of a Gold Cup racer of the 1920’s, but with completely modern hull shape and construction.
82 Luxe et al
Paul: We have many things going, some are internal investments, others are completely exploratory. The most exciting of which is a 60-foot LOA sailing catamaran designed in b-plane configuration. We have completed a working concept design including feasibility studies with extensive VPP data and CFD analysis. We expect to move forward with bid stage design to begin sourcing the right contractors in construction.
and open, back and forth, dialogue and we work across from each other in our studio to stay close. We don’t typically break off into specialties—each of us is fully involved and our combined 50 years of experience in construction and design informs all our work. While each project will have a point man, first point of contact for the client, we like to keep our whole team creatively involved in each project.
What projects are you currently working on?
Do you have a particular design theme or common influences that run through your projects?
Our current project is a 66-foot Spirit of Tradition sailing yacht—modern design, classic aesthetic—under construction at Lyman Morse Boatbuilding in Maine, due to launch in early 2018. Other projects on the boards and in the works include a 48-foot sport-fisherman, a 44-foot sailboat for the Great Lakes, and an interior renovation on a 100-foot sailing yacht. Do you have any favourite key elements of the above projects? The 66-footer incorporates a favourite element: a true deck salon, giving an airy effect to living aboard and providing panoramic views whether under sail or at anchor—you don’t need to choose between being “on deck” or “below”. She also features electric drop windows for a real al fresco experience. The project is representational for much of our work in the design of modern sailing features that are incorporated into classic aesthetic, almost period-like, design detail. Can you please talk us through your process of design and application. Our process is very collaborative—each of us are consistently involved with almost every facet of our projects. There is consistent
We’re known for our presence in the Spirit of Tradition genre—we’ve been designing modern classics since before the genre had a name—and our interpretation and expression of traditional themes is heavily flavoured with modern influence—we distil the essence of classic form, stripping it of excess decoration. What do you feel, as a designer, are the three most important qualities to adhere to/strive towards in today’s industry? Bob: Hand-built quality; environmental sensitivity; and most important—high value for the client. Paul: It’s important to be honest and transparent in this business. We find that every project develops very important and long-lasting relationships and building that trust is vital to survive. Always be willing to learn from colleagues and clients, and take time to educate your relations in return. Make sure to go the extra mile to get things right, just do it.
92 Main St. | 3rd Floor | Belfast | Maine | 04915
O: 207.338.6636 C: 207.505.2785
www.stephenswaring.com
I N N OVAT I ON I N S P I R E D B Y T R A D I T I ON TM
Luxe et al 83
84 Luxe et al
A SYNTHESIS OF TECHNOLOGY AND STYLE Kestrel Aviation - DreamJet
Luxe et al 85
86 Luxe et al
Luxe et al 87
88 Luxe et al
Luxe et al 89
In its traditional form, the carbon-fibre, all-electrical aircraft would routinely haul up to 335 passengers to all four corners of the globe without breaking a sweat. Now reborn as a super-luxurious ‘VVIP’, the aptly dubbed ‘DreamJet’ has the considerably less taxing job of floating up to 30 jetsetters to locations such as New York, Hong Kong and LA, and it does so with incredible swank and style. Aside from being an engineering marvel inside and out, this flying penthouse is revolutionary from an interior design perspective. The challenge was not only getting the design concept right for the cabin, but integrating it seamlessly with the aircraft’s complex electrical design and unique software architecture. Filling such a vast space with such intimate elegance, whilst not losing sight of the technical realities of this aircraft type, is no mean feat. Nobody was better qualified than Kestrel Aviation and Pierrejean Design Studious to undertake such a task, and a quick inside look at the mind-blowing interior reveals that they succeeded wonderfully. Not one inch of the 2,400 square metres of space has been wasted by the cocreators, who had to bravely cast aside the rulebook to design and install the high-end bespoke cabin. The design started with their perception of multicultural customer expectations; a challenging job given that the end user was not defined. The experience of the DreamJet begins with a slight deception. Approaching the imposing aircraft on the runway, anybody would be forgiven for thinking they were about to board just any other commercial aeroplane. One step inside and it becomes immediately clear that this is far from any other aeroplane. The flight deck, which can be found at the end of an upholstered corridor to the left of the main entrance, is the only aspect of the aircraft that bears any resemblance to the interior of a classic commercial jetliner. Turn right however and passengers are transported to a world of earthy-toned opulence and almost unimaginable style.
90 Luxe et al
Although deceptively simple at first sight, the design gradually stimulates the privileged observer with subtle detail and textures that are well integrated with adjacent pieces to offer an appealing continuum. The passenger is carried effortlessly through the cabin without visual or physical obstruction. Those lucky enough to step foot on the DreamJet will discover dedicated areas for dining, entertainment and rest, with each of these carefully constructed zones appearing to exist both independently and as one. The interior is so specialised that it took a year to engineer and a further year and half to manufacture and install after the aircraft rolled off the Boeing production line. The Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) can fly non-stop for 18 hours, so passenger comfort is undoubtedly a high priority, and this is something which Kestrel and Pierrejean handled magnificently. The design concept conveys a feeling of zen, an oasis of peace, soft tones, uncluttered flowing lines with the absence of sharp edges, and superb control of natural and artificial mood lighting. To achieve this, Pierrejean Designs, who have also created some of the world’s most inspiring yacht interiors, considered passengers senses (sight, sound and smell) when creating the pioneering concept. Through clever engineering, ambient noise is guaranteed not exceeding 46 decibels, as well as a cabin altitude that best counters the effects of jet-lag. Air travel here is clearly a wellconsidered experience, not just a process. The integration of state-of-the-art technology was also a key part of the impressive build, (this is a mega private jet, after all). The master suite has a 42inch TV, which, along with the lighting and window blinds, can be controlled remotely by passengers with a tablet. And whoever is lucky enough to claim this bedroom will surely be satisfied with the adjoining bathroom and shower decorated with marble and oak wood and stocked with Jo Malone toiletries. With crystal wine glasses, polished marble floors and handcrafted carpets, the DreamJet promises to deliver those lucky enough to board it an aviation experience rivalled by no other.
“
THE DESIGN CONCEPT CONVEYS A FEELING OF ZEN, AN OASIS OF PEACE, SOFT TONES, UNCLUTTERED FLOWING LINES WITH THE ABSENCE OF SHARP EDGES, AND SUPERB CONTROL OF NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL MOOD LIGHTING.
“
With room for 18 flat beds, spacious hardwood floors and high domed ceilings, this remodelled Boeing 787 Dreamliner is the largest private jet in the world.
BREAKING DOWN DESIGN BARRIERS & SHAPING THE FUTURE OF AN INDUSTRY The voting system, hailed “the best PR you A big claim from an Awards event now in its do this year”, appeared critics eight year, but for 2018 The International Yacht their launch back to in have 2011,itsThe Awards have A big claim from an Awards event now in its eight year,willSince initially, with many who were concerned about market. & Aviation Awards are confident of setting new but for 2018 The International Yacht & Aviation Awards created a shift in a traditionally established new way system, of working. However, asPR with as itofsees an unprecedented increase The voting hailed “the best you will do this arerecords confident setting new records as it sees an this other Awards hosted by design et al, this haswith many in applications and interestfrom all sectors of unprecedented increase in applications and interest year”, appeared to have its criticsinitially, proved to be the key to its success voting the industry. As the first and only awards crefrom all sectors of the industry. As the first and only who were concerned about this new way of working. have started back in 2011 ated created with the with aim of focusing on strictly the de- on may However, as withtentatively other Awards hosted bybut design et al, awards the aim of strictly focusing by 2017 it has witnessed a tenfold increase on - voting sign element, rather than the technical side of the design element, rather than the technical side this has proved to be the key to its success year one. The industry has started to engage the industry, the aim has always been to focus of the industry, the aim has always been to focus on may have started tentatively back in 2011 but by 2017 had neveradone previously. onwe what we know – design. As publishers it way has it witnessed tenfold increase on year one. The what know best best – design. As publishers for the in a for the design industry as a whole, both Luxe et design industry as a whole, both Luxe et al and design industry has started to engage in a way it had never et al has big plans for The International al magazines and design et al magazines hosted done previously. et al have hosted andhave created theand event Luxe Yacht & Aviation Awards in response to an created the event with this in mind. with this in mind. industry that is now eagerfor forThe change. Once Yacht & Luxe et al has big plans International again The Hotel Cipriani, Venice will host thethat is now For 2018 however things are going one step For 2018 however things are going one step further, Aviation Awards in response to an industry ceremony, which has been described as further, with awards categories for every area with awards categories for every area of a design eager for change. Once again The Hotel Cipriani, Venice private anbeen excluof a design scheme, rightcomponents down to the which compowilla host themember’s ceremony,event, which in has described as scheme, right down to the make “like sive club.” nents which make up the scheme itself. up the scheme itself. “like a private member’s event, in an exclusive club.” Since their launch back in 2011, The Awards have created a shift in a traditionally established market.
Dates for your diary Voting opens 18th April 2018 Awards Ceremony – Hotel Cipriani 18th May 2018 Applications now open – yachts@design-et-al.co.uk
www.thedesignawards.co.uk
WWW.THEDESIGNAWARDS.CO.UK 0044 (0)1244 346347 AWARDS@DESIGN-ET-AL.CO.UK
94 Luxe et al
REWARDING & RECOGNISING INNOVATIVE DESIGN SINCE 2010
HOTEL CIPRIANI 18 MAY 2018 Luxe et al 95
96 Luxe et al
MODERN STYLE WITH A RENAISSANCE TOUCH Airbus Corporate Jets & Atelier Pagani Automobil – Infinito
Luxe et al 97
Airbus Corporate Jets have teamed up with supercar manufacturer Atelier Pagani Automobili to dream up ‘Infinito’, a seriously sleek cabin for the ACJ319neo private jet. Throwing caution to the wind and creating something stunningly unique is a part of the philosophy at Pagani, and that adventurous approach to design is clear to see in this soon-to-be cabin. Those familiar with the interior of a Pagani hypercar will feel right at home aboard Infinito. Pagani’s design team created the initial design, including its look and feel, while Airbus Corporate Jets’ designers contributed their unparalleled experience in aircraft design and compatibility.
“
“
ART AND SCIENCE CAN WALK TOGETHER HAND IN HAND: THIS IS THE PAGANI PHILOSOPHY.
Curves inspired by nature form a pathway through the cabin, as well as featuring in the shell-shaped valances and walls between zones - including one between lounge and conference areas, which switches from opaque to transparent at the touch of a button. Airbus’ ACJ320 Family already has the widest and tallest business jet cabin, and while being similar in size externally, Infinito builds on this for even more of a passenger-pleasing experience. Probably the most striking feature of the alluring design is the ‘sky ceiling’, a screen which covers the entire roof of the cabin and delivers passengers a live view of the sky above in stunning quality. This, perhaps unsurprisingly, is where the aircraft has picked up the nickname Infinito, Italian for infinity. Passengers will be given a sense of airiness and freedom they’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. Should a streaming video of the troposphere not be to the taste of those lucky enough to be on board, other images are available to be projected downward instead. This incredible feature sets the tone for the rest of the cabin, which exudes all things luxury and opulent. This is a pretty reminder of what happens when two experts combine their skills to create something special, and Infinito clearly shows off the best of what they can both achieve. Speaking of the exciting collaboration, Airbus Corporate Jets Managing Director Benoit Defforge commented “In bringing together the best of the supercar and business jet worlds, we enable an elegant and seamless link for customers of both, while bringing a fresh approach to cabin design and satisfying very demanding standards”. Standards certainly have been met, and from all angles. The design team at Pagani have managed to create something that
98 Luxe et al
is both entirely fresh and reassuringly familiar at the same time. The cabin’s décor is reminiscent of gracing one of their widely-loved hypercars, with natural soft-leather carpets and a wooden floor contrasting with man-made carbon fibre in furniture and wall frames - echoing the combination of art and science originally espoused by Leonardo da Vinci. Sculpted metal features, again mirroring those found in their award-winning cars, feature in light-fittings and other details, while light-emitting diodes (LEDs) enable different mood-lighting ambiances. The balance between business and pleasure appears to be just right. Moving out of the conference area and into the lounge an inviting row of connected seats can be found. As expected, they bear a slight visual resemblance to what can be found in a Zonda or a Huayra, only these have been carefully sculpted to fit the curves of a private jet. The seats are placed directly opposite a sizeable TV mounted on the aircraft’s wall. In terms of relaxing and unwinding with family or friends in front of the box, it’s hard to think of a better spot. Away from the comfortable lounge and dining areas and into the aircraft’s main bathroom, an extremely roomy walkin shower can be found. This spacious private quarter also includes a double sink with a large mirror, both of which are laden with state-of-the-art carbon fibre. Spacious units beneath the two sinks provide enough storage for several people on a lengthy commute. Those seeking an ultra professional business travel experience mixed with something impossibly sleek, modern and just downright different will not disembark this aircraft dissatisfied. The combination of classic art and modern technology is something Pagani and Airbus hoped to achieve from the start, and if the concept photos of the cabin are anything to go by, they have certainly achieved it. Horacio Pagani, founder and Chief Designer of Pagani Automobili SpA, said “Art and Science can walk together hand in hand: this is the Pagani philosophy. The combination of state-of-the-art composite materials never used before in an aircraft, such as CarboTitanium, with the typical design language of Pagani Automobili, has always represented our signature. Applying our Renaissance touch into the wider spaces of Airbus corporate jet cabins is the beginning of an exciting new venture for us”.
Luxe et al 99
THE NEXT ISSUE:
THE TECH ISSUE Exploring how technology is evolving design and build in yacht and private aviation.
100 Luxe et al