What drew you to yacht design?
I grew up near the sea, surrounded by nature. I have always been fascinated by the beauty of the natural world – organic shapes, textures, colours, fragrances and sounds that bring our world alive. There is a great symmetry in yacht design, where each vessel is exquisitely unique and a blend of luxury, precision, quality and fine detailing.
Yachts represent freedom and adventure; a connection with our oceans, experiencing life at its best. Uniting shape and function with the perfect mix of engineering, design and craftsmanship is an exciting challenge. I enjoy the creativity of finding new ways to implement the latest technologies, without sacrificing the essence of yachting: a peaceful retreat with nature.

Which designers inspire your craft?
The number of design studios and designers that have inspired me is countless. I cannot choose between so many talented people, so just to mention a few: Bannenberg & Rowell Design, Nauta Design, Luca Dini Design & Architecture, Andrew Winch, Espen Øino International, Nuvolari Lenard, Philippe Starck, Ken Freivokh Design and Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design.
I also want to highlight the work of my colleagues from past Young Designer of the Year editions, who have inspired me to push the boundaries of the yacht design panorama to find and envision new design trends, bringing innovative and appealing alternative concept designs.

How would you like to see yacht design evolve?
I bet on an evolution driven by sustainable materials. Innovative technologies that are respectful towards the environment will shape future yacht designs. We are in an industry of experience, not product design, and the ever-changing ways people enjoy spending time at sea will also influence the yachts of tomorrow. Flexible, customised solutions that allow spaces to have different configurations will also remain important.

Valentin Weigand

Ready to enter the fascinating world of yacht design?