SYD Week Speaker Spotlight: Evan K Marshall

Set up in 1993, Evan K Marshall’s studio on the banks of the river Thames prides itself on employing innovation perspectives on all aspect of design for its clients. His list of projects includes yachts like Diamonds Are Forever, Opus II, The World Is Not Enough and Lady Linda, as well as residential projects and designs for cruise ships, cars, office and coaches. SYD catches up with the designer for a quick Q&A ahead of SuperyachtDESIGN Week, where he will be on the panel for a Designer Question Time at SuperyachtDESIGN Week called ‘New Blood: The Entry Process’.

SYD: Why did you become a superyacht designer?

Evan Marshall: In truth I really aspired to become a ‘boat designer’. The reason why say this is that from childhood, since the age of four, I wanted to design boats and this was 1964 when there was no such thing as ‘superyachts’. My dream as a young boy growing up in New York City was to design boats like the 31' cabin cruiser my family had at the time.

SYD: What is your design philosophy?

EM: I would say I have a very open design philosophy from the point of view of aesthetics. I've been fortunate that my background has allowed me to experience everything from racing sailboats to designing small cabin cruisers to designing the exteriors and interiors of superyachts. I'm equally enamoured with classic styling as well as contemporary design as it relates to both interior and exterior styling.

SYD: What makes the world of superyacht design such an exciting realm to work in?

EM: Is one of the remaining realms of design where truly bespoke creations can still be created.

SYD: What five words best describe your design style?

EM: Harmonious, Balanced, Elegant, Innovative, Detailed

SYD: You will be on the panel for a Designer Question Time at SuperyachtDESIGN Week called ‘New Blood: The Entry Process’. What is key for you to attracting new clients into the industry and making sure they are happy?

EM: For me the key to introducing new clients to the ownership of a superyacht is convincing them that the process of developing and building their dream design is a pleasurable one. This becomes especially important once the project has been completed and delivered but still needs to be serviced. The clients still need to be supported as they familiarise themselves with their brand new yacht.

SYD: Why are events like SuperyachtDESIGN Week important?

EM: It is vital that we in our industry have an opportunity to exchange ideas and to learn from our colleagues about their experiences.

‘New Blood: The Entry Process’ will take place on Tuesday 18 June 2013 at 12:45 to 13:30 at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour. To learn more about SuperyachtDESIGN Week, the programme and register to attend, visit the SuperyachtDESIGN Week website here. You can keep up to date with the event, speakers and share your thoughts on Twitter using #SYDWeek.

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