Award winning design TEAM
Many yacht owners purchase second-hand vessels or series-production craft. However, some clients have more bespoke requirements. In response, our work may take one of three approaches: “Clean sheet of paper” designs; a vessel based on an proven technical platform; refits or conversions of existing vessels.
Architect and designer Richard Liebowitz refers to his lifetime of yachting, with several thousand hours of sea time, to inform his design decisions. Understanding the rigours of ocean journeys, and the structures which must withstand them, are the foundation of his draughtsmanship. Detailed operational insights from the superyacht captains and crews that operate them, are directly incorporated into the best solutions for our clients.
In each case, the client’s instruction, or Brief, is the guiding force. Toward that Brief, we aim to we help to orchestrate the project’s aesthetic focus, while respecting foundational shipbuilding practice, seagoing tradition, international class and code, and the best practices of safety at sea.
In recent years, Architect and designer Richard Liebowitz has expanded his significant lifelong yachting experience, with new adventures at sea on the types of ocean-going working ships that have been a particular inspiration thim. Understanding the rigours – and dangers – of ocean journeys, is as essential to the design of vessels, as are the structural and practical principles that are the foundation of his draughtsmanship.Detailed operational insights from the experienced captains and crews of such working ships can be prudently incorporated – and adapted – into the best solutions for enduring function and form at sea.
Former siesmic survey ship PLANCIUS was the ideal platform from which to explore a northmost archipelago, and beyond toward the pole. An ice-class steel hull, hushed running machinery, top-of-class life safety equipment, purpose-build boarding systems, and a 6-deep engineering crew, were essential elements to explore the artic seas, islands, and wildlife, returning without incident.
This mighty 100metre (328 foot) ocean-going tug, represents an era of powerfully functional, yet exquisitely artful design and engineering. At least two of the few existing examples in this class have been converted into explorer yachts. At a client’s request, Richard Liebowitz had the opportunity for a sea-trial evaluation of OCEANIC. “What impressed me, was how very tightly wrapped the spatial envelope was around the ‘machine’. This sets the muscular proportions.”
This unique “Streamliner” masterpiece is the only 1960s cargo ship in-class, and fully certified for global operation (with 12 passengers). Based in Hamburg this 10,000 gross ton (160 metre) is a “living museum” as are her 9-cylinder M.A.N. engines, which are maintained by a vigilant crew and expert input from the extant legendary manufacturer. Features include a dramatic passenger lounge and pool.
“Each functional and aesthetic element should work to reinforce the underlying concept”
~ Richard Liebowitz
Professional Recognition
