A Philosophy for Design

The two basic foundations to our philosophy of design are:

  • That the design must reflect, above all else, the client’s requirements and desires.
  • The resulting design should be appropriate to the stated function.

From the moment a design is undertaken we believe that the most crucial step is establishing the client’s brief and requirements.  

The two basic foundations to our philosophy of design are:

  • That the design must reflect, above all else, the client’s requirements and desires.
  • The resulting design should be appropriate to the stated function.

From the moment a design is undertaken we believe that the most crucial step is establishing the client’s brief and requirements. Involvement of the client in the design process starts in the early stages. This lets them become intimately involved in the decision-making and design process, also making them aware of the issues and potential problems as they arise.

In this process the client is forced to think about what it is that they really want and what their objectives for the project are. Some suggestions and requests simply wont work. It is our belief that if we discuss these issues, and explain to the client the reasons - referring back to their stated objectives - then it is far more acceptable than attempting some hugely expensive solution that doesn’t work.

Design objectives are then clearly established and recorded, becoming the basis for developing the initial design, progressing to the final design. Ultimately, this is the document by which the design should be judged a success or failure.

We aim to give the client the boat of their dreams, not somebody else’s.

Our second notion of ‘appropriateness’ provides the basis for decision making through the entire design process, whether it is how long the vessel should be, how much it displaces, what colour it should be painted, or what type of fabric should be used for the upholstery, the same question can be asked. Is it appropriate for the intended function and is it in keeping with the client’s desires for this vessel? The technology is available to give a client almost anything that they may desire, but the question should always be asked whether by providing any particular item, the client’s stated objectives are further satisfied.

We like to keep an open mind toward design development gradually focusing on what we believe to be the most appropriate approach. We acknowledge that each individual project is a unique and wonderful opportunity.