Interview with Ray Yacht Design

Ray Yacht Design ("RYD") interviewed on Saturday, 17 May.

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

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, I have been involved in the design and maritime industry for many years. Throughout my career, I have worked with prominent clients and led numerous successful projects. We, as Ray Yacht Design, combine deep sector knowledge with a passion for innovation in every project we undertake.

How did you become a designer?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, I became a designer through a natural fusion of my love for the sea and aesthetics. From an early age, I was fascinated by design and functionality, which led me to pursue a career where I could bring those elements together. My education and hands-on experience helped me shape this path.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

RYD : At Ray Yacht Design, the top priorities are sustainability, functionality, and aesthetics. The team utilizes modern technologies to maximize user experience, blending innovative solutions with elegant design.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, I feel excitement, curiosity, and deep satisfaction when designing. The most thrilling part for me is the conceptual phase, where ideas start to take form. At Ray Yacht Design, we find joy in solving problems creatively and seeing the final product come to life.

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

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, I believe my technical knowledge, maritime background, and multidisciplinary interests have significantly shaped my design approach. We also draw strength from our ability to communicate and collaborate effectively, which enhances the design process.

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

RYD : Ray Yacht Design aims to create even more sustainable and innovative projects in the future. We envision creating next-generation eco-conscious yachts. One of the dream projects includes designing luxury yachts integrated with eco-friendly technologies.

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

RYD : Young designers are encouraged to keep learning, stay updated with industry developments, and gain hands-on experience. Building relationships with mentors is also key for professional growth. Mistakes are part of growth. We encourage them to stay passionate, seek mentorship, and always be curious about how things work and how they can be improved.

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

RYD : To be successful, one must remain original, design with user needs in mind, and consider sustainability as a core value. Being open to interdisciplinary collaboration is also essential. We believe success comes from staying true to your design values and continuously refining your skills.

What is your day to day look like?

RYD : The day typically starts by catching up on industry news. This is followed by project work, team meetings, and design evaluations. The workday includes analysis and creative sessions dedicated to enhancing ongoing designs.

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

RYD : Keeping up with trends is important to stay informed. We stay informed about design trends to understand the changing landscape, but we always prioritize timeless solutions over temporary styles. Trends can inspire, but they shouldn’t dictate the core of the design.

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

RYD : Good design is one that meets user needs, is aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable. Functionality and innovation are also key evaluation criteria. We look for intuitive usability, harmony with the environment, and emotional resonance when evaluating our work.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

RYD : A design is considered ready when all its objectives are fulfilled and it effectively meets user expectations. However, there is always room for improvement, and designs may be revisited for enhancements in the future.

What is your biggest design work?

RYD : Our most impactful work to date is the R65 Hybrid Trawler. We are proud of how it integrates eco-conscious technologies with modern aesthetics and comfort.

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

RYD : Ray Yacht Design emphasizes teamwork, innovation, and a user-centered design approach. Client satisfaction and design quality are always at the core of every project. Our philosophy is to always design with purpose and passion.

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

RYD : We support young designers through mentorship and knowledge-sharing. We provide educational support to a maritime high school in Istanbul. Beyond theoretical education, we support them with project development and technical mentorship. These students have successfully brought some of these projects to life. We see this as an investment in the future of maritime design and a way to support a new generation of creative, skilled professionals.

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

RYD : Participating in the A’ Design Award has provided international recognition and allowed projects to reach a broader audience. It also opened doors to new networking opportunities and industry collaborations. We gained global visibility, expanded our professional network, and were deeply motivated by the recognition. It’s a great platform for creative growth and connection.

Ray Yacht Design Profile