Quote:
| Originally Posted by Arniev I've always thought that true Designer Yachts are unique, one-off designs, intelligently combining the owner's specifications and eccentricities, and interpreted by the designer into a visually-pleasing, safe and seaworthy vessel. |
Lars,
In reading this thread, I'm not sure I fully understand the meaning of a "Designer Yacht". My perception would be the same as Arnie's above. If I understand you correctly, you're saying a Designer Yacht should stand the test of time? If this is true, I would like to raise Bannenberg’s work which you cited in an earlier post...
Without question, his designs were fresh and bold, ushering in a new era in yacht design. I know it goes against popular opinion among yacht enthusiasts, but among the less educated, I’ve heard comments ranging from dated to dreadful. I think if history teaches us anything, is that we must must keep an eye on the future. I think you have proven this with your own designs. Although you designed some of them many years ago, they still remain the most modern and timeless designs to date.
The yachts being built today will be seen in many ports over the years to come. This can be a direct reflection on the future demand of a builder. All too often, a builder is credited with a design, not the actually designer. Here in lies a problem...
Often, a yard will choose a design because of an established relationship with a designer. Because they will be working together closely for years on just one project, this often leads to another project, as each party becomes more familiar with each other; their thought processes, and protocols. All of this makes sense in many ways, both from a fiscal and time element, however this also makes it difficult for a new designer to make in-roads.
I believe in many cases (not just limited to yacht building), there exists a pop-mentality of using a name that is familiar, whether it be a product, service or in this case... a designer. Do they chance the risk of new talent, or travel the path of past performance. Builders must be conservative and prudent by nature. They are risking millions of dollars and 1000’s of man-hours on one design, let alone multiple projects. Choosing a designer they can “work with” is imperative, but this may also limit the builder’s design options.
Not surprisingly, there is a certain amount of “emulation” that takes place, where subtle features and accents previously penned by other designers… magically make their way into a more established designer’s repertoire. Then, having an existing communication with certain yards, they are able to further their acceptance. Again, this makes opening channels for a new designer even more challenging. But… this could be said of any industry.