From The Drawing Boards: The 10 Most Influential Superyacht Designers
Behind every incredible yacht is a visionary designer who transforms dreams into reality, from sailing yachts to motor yachts; these sought-after designers boast impressive portfolios filled with award-winning yachts, many of which are now available to enjoy on a luxury yacht charter. Here is a look at the top ten best-known names in superyacht design:
Winch Design
Founded by the legendary Andrew Winch in 1986, Winch Design has become a top name in superyacht design. Based in the UK, the studio is known for creating unique spaces that reflect each client's personality and lifestyle.
Having collaborated with top shipyards such as Lurssen, Amels, and Feadship, the design house consistently delivers timeless and elegant yachts. Their expertise has also expanded into jets and residential architecture.
Bill Trip
When it comes to sailing yachts, American designer Bill Tripp has been known for creating performance-driven yachts since founding his studio in 1984.
Appealing to those who appreciate both speed and style, Tripp’s yachts are known for their balance of functionality and aesthetics, making them a favorite for many.
Terence Disdale
With a decades-long career, British designer Terence Disdale is known for his highly customized yacht interiors and exteriors. Having started his career in the 1960s under the legendary Jon Bannenberg, Disdale developed his own style - a laid-back yet sophisticated approach with a range of materials and textures.
His award-winning portfolio includes some of the most iconic superyachts on the market.
Espen Oino
The Monaco-based iconic Norwegian designer Espen Oino is celebrated for his cutting-edge and boundary-pushing designs.
His extensive work and notable deliveries feature some of the most technically advanced and visually striking yachts. With global projects, Oino continues to set high standards for large custom superyachts.
Bannenberg & Rowell
Continuing with the late Jon Bannenberg’s legacy, Bannenberg & Rowell specializes in modern yacht design. Today led by Dickie Bannenberg and Simon Rowell, the London-based studio continues to work with major shipyards to create bold and sophisticated yachts that stand out.
Philippe Briand
A French designer with a strong background in competitive sailing, Phillippe Briand’s expertise has been influenced by his racing.
He gained prominence in the 1980s after winning two world championships and later transitioned into designing yachts, including America’s Cup contenders.
Tim Heywood
Heywood also began his career under Jon Bannenberg before establishing his own studio in 1996. Since then, he has built a reputation for designing some of the most striking yachts. His collaborations with Amels have led to the successful Limited Editions series, which offers semi-custom yachts with bespoke elements.
Ken Freivokh
A former architect who transitioned into yacht design after purchasing his own yacht, Ken Freivokhn is an experienced sailor. Based in the UK, his design team challenges conventional yacht aesthetics, and his work is widely recognized.
Hoek Design
Based in the Netherlands and founded in 1986 by Andre Hoek, the design house creates a range of styles from classic to contemporary.
Predominantly known for their sailing yachts boasting classic lines, Hoek Design has developed various semi-custom ranges such as the Classic, Truly Classic and Semi Classic.
Malcolm McKeon
Malcolm Mckeon Yacht Design is a world-renowned studio with a broad portfolio known for its pioneering approach and radical designs. A keen racer, Malcolm Mckeon began working with yacht designer Ed Dubois, designing a variety of race boats. After developing different approaches, McKeon set up independently and is known for utilizing glass in his designs.
These designers have left a huge mark on the yachting world - and continue to do so - which is consistently reshaping luxury yacht design, setting new standards in aesthetics and functionality.