Splendour Under Sail - PAGE 36 
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Final design solutions are developed from concept sketches. Here they are used to assess various options for integrating the spray dodger on to the windscreen of the 110 foot cutter "Sensation'. The freehand drawings by project manager Rob Jacob will help the client to visualise the final solution.
Conceptual sketches and colour visuals together with more formal drawings allow both designer and owner to understand the overall appearance and characteristics of the design. If the design is a small evolution of an existing yacht, it will be easy to visualise, but clients who are looking for a more innovative approach will rely heavily on the preliminary concept drawings. Usually it is worthwhile investing in both computer and real three dimensional models to achieve the level of visualisation necessary to judge accurately what we are trying to achieve. These aids are particularly beneficial to clients who are not experienced at studying drawings, and the effort put in at this stage allows the client to feel comfortable as the detail design proceeds.
I also get involved in projects where yachts are built on speculation. While I keep in my mind the type of client the underwriter is trying to attract, there is a freedom to explore novel solutions which have become available through new technology. While I am obliged normally to keep the styling of such a yacht within the bounds of conventional taste, in the detailing my team can try ideas which we believe will increase the asset value of the yacht without risking the builder's capital.
With speculative projects, accurate compliance with the budget is of paramount importance. However, even with large budget projects I try to make sure that every dollar is well spent. I never propose a design feature without doing some degree of value engineering study. Is this the most efficient way of achieving the required result? Can we explore an alternative, more cost-effective solution?
Modern materials, design and building systems enable us to offer our clients a combination of comfort and sailing performance unheard of only a few years ago.
Final design solutions are developed from concept sketches. Here they are used to assess various options for integrating the spray dodger on to the windscreen of the 110 foot cutter "Sensation'. The freehand drawings by project manager Rob Jacob will help the client to visualise the final solution.
Conceptual sketches and colour visuals together with more formal drawings allow both designer and owner to understand the overall appearance and characteristics of the design. If the design is a small evolution of an existing yacht, it will be easy to visualise, but clients who are looking for a more innovative approach will rely heavily on the preliminary concept drawings. Usually it is worthwhile investing in both computer and real three dimensional models to achieve the level of visualisation necessary to judge accurately what we are trying to achieve. These aids are particularly beneficial to clients who are not experienced at studying drawings, and the effort put in at this stage allows the client to feel comfortable as the detail design proceeds.
I also get involved in projects where yachts are built on speculation. While I keep in my mind the type of client the underwriter is trying to attract, there is a freedom to explore novel solutions which have become available through new technology. While I am obliged normally to keep the styling of such a yacht within the bounds of conventional taste, in the detailing my team can try ideas which we believe will increase the asset value of the yacht without risking the builder's capital.
With speculative projects, accurate compliance with the budget is of paramount importance. However, even with large budget projects I try to make sure that every dollar is well spent. I never propose a design feature without doing some degree of value engineering study. Is this the most efficient way of achieving the required result? Can we explore an alternative, more cost-effective solution?
Modern materials, design and building systems enable us to offer our clients a combination of comfort and sailing performance unheard of only a few years ago.
PAGE 36 Reader View