Interview with BAZ Yacht Design

BAZ Yacht Design ("BYD") interviewed on Wednesday, 17 July.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

BYD : It is an honor to be here and share our journey. We will answer your questions as co-founders of BAZ Yacht Design. Barbaros, our head of naval architecture and yacht exterior design, graduated from Istanbul Technical University, Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering department which was a childhood dream as grew up in the lovely city of Izmir on the Aegean coast. Worked for yacht builders and refit companies till 2014 till he met Bilge, life and business partner in BAZ Yacht Design. Bilge, our head of yacht interior design, studied architecture at Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University in Istanbul. After expertising prestigious interior design studios, her yacht design adventure started after meeting Barbaros when they established BAZ Yacht Design together in 2014. Since than, she only focused on yacht interior and exterior design projects. In years, BAZ Yacht Design has been developed and became a well-known yacht design studio, involved different type of projects from worlds first 3D printed tender design and engineering to detailed naval architecture of 20+ aluminium catamarans for Australia, from nominated refit projects to multi award winning designs of super yacht exterior and interior design.

How did you become a designer?

BYD : Our journey in yacht design began with a deep passion for the sea and the nature. As sailing yacht owners, we spend half of the year in SY Mediterra, which we use her as a second office as well. Therefore we make a special connection with nature and influence our creativity which recently make us win the Platinum Design Award with Project KAI and Bronze Award with MS Andiamo. Every step of our journey, from education to professional experience, has been driven by a passion for creating exceptional yachts.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

BYD : We might effortlessly describe our approach as modern, sophisticated, and timeless. Yet, to confine our artistry within such narrow bounds would be a disservice to the unique visions we aim to realize. At BAZ Yacht Design, we begin by focusing ourselves to the dreams and desires of the yacht owner. It is from this harmonious dialogue that we craft bespoke vessels, each infused with our signature touch yet distinctly personalized. The result is a harmonious array of styles, unified by our vision but adorned with the individual flair of each owner.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

BYD : Designing a yacht is an emotionally rich experience, encompassing various spectrum of feelings from excitement and inspiration to fulfillment and pride. Even sometimes with Platinium and Bronze Awards. (laughing) To sum up, the emotional journey of designing a yacht is dynamic, deeply rewarding and interestingly, never ending where each phase has its unique emotional highs, the overarching feeling is one of passion and dedication to creating something extraordinary.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

BYD : Besides all the creativity, both of our backgrounds reaches to the project management and problem-solving skills that we have gained in the past. Building strong client relationships have also been key to our success. We always say: Understand and don’t underestimate the client’s needs and wishes.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

BYD : We are in the period of establishing our Hamburg, Germany branch office and plan to expand our services on a more global venture.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

BYD : Most of the people may advise to avoid mistakes. However, life is a learning process, you live and learn. And some of the time, as a normal human being, you may have mistakes as well. As soon as you are open and wise for learning, do not be scared of making mistakes. The second advise will be to give a break, a pause during the design phase. Especially in the creative stage. This will clear your mind and focus, and will help you to reach your project with a brand new, fresh eye.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

BYD : While we are honored by our successes, we believe it's not our place to direct the journeys of other designers. Each creative path is unique and deeply personal.

What is your day to day look like?

BYD : Our day-to-day routine, especially if the weather is nice, includes spending time in our sailboat, where we find inspiration from nature for our yacht designs. We start by sketching and refining concepts, often drawing from the serene surroundings of Mediterranean. Online meetings with clients, owner representatives or management companies and our design team follow, discussing how we can integrate natural elements into our projects.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

BYD : Staying tuned with the latest design trends is quite important for our studio. We mostly follow the industry events, fairs and exhibitions, design publications, forums, design competitions and collaborations with global experts. While trends offer valuable insights, we prioritize timeless design principles that ensure our yachts remain elegant and functional over the years. Our inspiration often derives from the harmony of nature and the freedom of sailing. Spending time on our sailboat allows us to observe how natural elements interact with water and wind, influencing our designs' fluid lines and organic shapes. This blend of natural inspiration and contemporary trends enables us to create yachts that seamlessly integrate with their environment while embodying modern aesthetics and performance.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

BYD : A good designed yacht is a symphony of functionality, aesthetics, and innovation, effortlessly blending into its surroundings. When a yacht from the early 2000s still captivates your heart, it proves the true timelessness—a hallmark of genuinely exceptional design.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

BYD : Determining if a design is ready involves reaching a stage where it meets critical benchmarks in functionality, aesthetics, and client expectations. However, design is inherently iterative and evolves with feedback and new insights. While a design can meet immediate goals, it remains open to future enhancements and adaptations based on evolving requirements and advancements in technology and user preferences. Thus, design is a continual process of refinement rather than a static endpoint.

What is your biggest design work?

BYD : Our biggest design work to date is our Platinum Design Award winner yacht concept Project KAI for sure. This project holds a special place in our career because it represents the passion we have for yacht design. We have designed Project KAI with the aim of pushing the boundaries of yacht design. Inspired by a vision of blending cutting-edge technology with timeless appeal, we wanted to create a vessel that not only met but exceeded the expectations of luxury and performance. The project allowed us to explore innovative design solutions while integrating sustainable practices such as smart hybrid engines with big battery banks that even allow her to have a silent electric cruising, which are increasingly important in today's environmental approach. Moreover, Project KAI provided an opportunity to showcase our studio's capabilities and vision. From initial sketches to the final detailed plans, every aspect of the design was meticulously crafted to ensure it embodied our core values of innovation, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Seeing Project KAI come to life, receiving recognition through prestigious awards, and most importantly, witnessing the delight of our clients, has been incredibly fulfilling. Hope to see her on water soon!

Who is your favourite designer?

BYD : Our inspirations are drawn from a rich tapestry of designers across diverse disciplines. To name just one or two would scarcely capture the breadth of our influences.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

BYD : Our lifestyle and culture are deeply intertwined with my passion for yacht design. As ardent enthusiasts of coastal living, we find inspiration in the sea, which rejuvenates our creativity and deepens our appreciation for marine environments. While it's impossible to single out just one city, our hearts are captivated by the entire Mediterranean coast and its vibrant culture. Currently, we are in Marmaris, Turkey, immersed in several exciting yacht design projects, including the KAI catamaran. We believe KAI possesses a soul, inspiring us to create an entire KAI family. Moreover, in autumn 2024, we will be in Hamburg for a couple of months to start our new exciting yacht design project that will be built in Germany.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

BYD : at BAZ Yacht Design, our work focus is centered around collaboration, innovation, and a dedication to creating exceptional designs. We value creativity, therefore we ask contributions from each team member, and we are committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in yacht design.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

BYD : We admire how good design seamlessly combines functionality and aesthetics. We try to engage in design events and conferences to mentor and inspire young designers. In our studio, we prioritize nurturing talent by providing mentorship and opportunities for growth among our team of yacht designers.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

BYD : Winning the Platinum Award for Project KAI and the Bronze Award for MS Andiamo from the prestigious A’ Design Award & Competition has elevated our global profile and opened doors to invaluable networking opportunities.

BAZ Yacht Design Profile