Ray Yacht Design

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Ray Yacht Design ("RYD") for their original perspective and innovative approach to design as well as their creative lifestyle, we are very pleased to share our interview with our distinguished readers.

DL: Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

RYD : Ray Yacht Design was founded with the aim of merging modern design with functionality to create user-focused yachts. Our approach, which blends aesthetics, engineering, and maritime culture, quickly gained recognition in the industry. As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, my interest in yacht design began at a young age. During my university years, I had the opportunity to develop my skills through freelance projects. Throughout this journey, my biggest supporter has been my brother, Özgür Emre Terzioğlu, who has over 20 years of experience in the field and continues to provide professional consultancy to our studio. His guidance and expertise have played a vital role in my career path. My other brother is a naval architect, so you could say a natural affinity for the maritime world runs in the family. Ray Yacht Design was born from the fusion of personal experience and a deep-rooted family passion for the sea. Today, we continue our work as a disciplined and innovative team, contributing to the sector through both design and consultancy services. One of the most valuable aspects of our studio is the way we share our experiences with younger talents around us, almost like a design school. We include them in our projects, helping them grow professionally while growing together. This approach reflects both our internal team dynamic and our vision for investing in the future.

DL: What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, my motivation for designing comes from the desire to improve the user’s experience by combining aesthetics and functionality. I grew up surrounded by the sea, and my family’s background in the maritime industry naturally directed me to this path. Choosing to become a designer was a way to unite my creative side with my passion for the sea. What excites and motivates me most is creating distinctive yachts tailored to the unique needs of each client.

DL: Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, I chose to become a designer completely by my own will. My passion for the sea and design started in childhood, so working in this field felt like a natural path for me.

DL: What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

RYD : We aim to create yachts that strike a balance between modern and classical elements, prioritizing both functionality and aesthetics. Our focus is always on designing unique vessels that reflect the lifestyle of their users.

DL: What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

RYD : Passion and continuous learning are key. Creating user-centered, original designs and gaining experience with patience are the foundation of becoming a successful designer.

DL: What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

RYD : A good designer meets expectations; a great designer exceeds them and creates an original experience. Great designers focus on details that make a real difference.

DL: What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

RYD : A good design balances aesthetics and functionality while offering a design language and strong visual identity. It should also create an emotional connection with the user.

DL: What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

RYD : Good design maximizes comfort and performance, providing users with a unique experience and lasting value.

DL: What would you design and who would you design for if you had the time?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, I'd love to design environmentally friendly and functional yachts, tailored for clients seeking long-term comfort and aesthetic pleasure at sea.

DL: What is the dream project you haven’t yet had time to realize?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, my dream project is to redesign a classic yacht with a rich history—remaining true to its story while breathing new life into it. I aim to create a meaningful historical journey between past and future through design.

DL: What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

RYD : Our success lies in a user-centered approach and attention to detail. Additionally, a strong team and innovative mindset allow us to provide unique solutions for each project.

DL: How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

RYD : Continuous learning and drawing inspiration from various disciplines were key in my development. Gaining real-world project experience and mentorship support were also extremely valuable.

DL: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have done?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, if I weren’t a designer, I would have pursued a career in sports. I enjoy disciplines that require focus and commitment.

DL: How do you define design, what is design for you?

RYD : Design is the process of enriching life by blending aesthetics and function. For us, it’s about building both emotional and practical connections with the user.

DL: Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, my biggest supporter has been my brother Özgür Emre Terzioğlu. His experience and mentorship have played a significant role in my professional journey.

DL: How do you think designers should present their work?

RYD : Designers should utilize technology effectively and remain open to innovation. Clear, concise communication helps convey the value and functionality of a design.

DL: What’s your next design project, what should we expect from you in future?

RYD : Our upcoming project is a 110 ft design inspired by the award-winning R65 Hybrid Trawler. In the future, we aim to explore new waters with sustainability and technology at the forefront.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

RYD : Design is the art of solving problems with aesthetics, which enhances the quality of both physical and social environments. Well-thought-out design supports social well-being.

DL: What are you currently working on that you are especially excited about?

RYD : The 110 ft design. We are preparing to set sail with sustainability and technology as our compass.

DL: Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, I can say I’ve experienced emotional satisfaction in every project we’ve completed. Each had its own unique story and was tailored to a specific user. This variety keeps the design process alive and meaningful.

DL: What would you like to see changed in design industry in the coming years?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, I’d like to see prototyping processes become faster and more practical with technological advancements. This would make the design process more interactive, feedback-oriented, and open to innovation.

DL: Where do you think the design field is headed next?

RYD : Definitely toward a collaboration between AI and human emotion and intuition. Design processes will become smarter, more personalized, and multi-layered.

DL: How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

RYD : It depends on the size and scope of the project, but typically between 6 to 8 months.

DL: When you have a new design project, where do you start?

RYD : We usually begin by understanding the client’s needs and expectations. Then we move on to concept development and initial design, establishing the core spirit of the project. This ensures a solid foundation for everything that follows.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

RYD : Our motto is: “Notice what is hidden within the unseen.” In design, it’s important to go beyond the visible and capture the underlying meaning, spirit, and life.

DL: Do you think design sets the trends or trends set the designs?

RYD : Design and trends constantly influence and feed off one another. Good design creates trends, while trends can also guide the direction of design. They’re inseparable.

DL: What is the role of technology when you design?

RYD : Technology is at the heart of our field, enabling us to offer innovative solutions. It accelerates production processes and pushes the boundaries of creativity.

DL: What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

RYD : In yacht design, form is our primary focus, as the spirit of the design lies in shape and line. Color and material complete the form, enhancing the atmosphere and user experience.

DL: What do you wish people to ask about your design?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, I’d love for people to be curious about the emotions and experiences I go through while designing. The real story behind a design is shaped by those feelings and inspirations.

DL: When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, I try to understand the thought and emotion behind it. This brings fresh perspective and creativity to my own work.

DL: Who is your ideal design partner? Do you believe in co-design?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, I strongly believe in the collaborative design process. I learned this approach from my brother Özgür Emre Terzioğlu, who has over 20 years of experience. Working together adds depth to the design.

DL: Which people you interacted had the most influence on your design?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, my social and emotional experiences, and the people I interact with, have had a significant impact on my design process. These interactions bring inspiration and originality.

DL: Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, philosophical books, especially works by Eckhart Tolle, have had a big impact. “The Power of Now” taught me to stay present and focused, bringing a deeper perspective to my work.

DL: How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, my personality is naturally never satisfied, which constantly pushes me to improve. This pursuit of betterment lies at the heart of my progress.

DL: Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, I’d love to meet Marcus Aurelius and Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Aurelius for his stoic serenity and inner discipline, and Atatürk for his visionary leadership and bold reformist spirit.

DL: How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

RYD : We are still at the beginning of the road, and every award we receive is a source of motivation. The road to success is full of challenges; creating real value requires dedication.

DL: What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, my favorite color is vibrant yellow for the positivity and energy it brings. I find inspiration in seaside locations, surrounded by nature. I enjoy simple, high-quality Mediterranean cuisine. My favorite season is spring, the symbol of renewal and freshness. I admire Patek Philippe for its refined and minimalist design.

DL: When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

RYD : As Kemal Cevahir Terzioğlu, the founder of Ray Yacht Design, even as a child, I had a strong sense of aesthetics and could distinguish beauty from imbalance. This ability to maintain aesthetic harmony laid the foundation for my design journey.

DL: Please tell us anything you wish your fans to know about you, your design and anything else?

RYD : For us, design is not about creating forms—it is a deep emotional and intellectual process. We constantly strive to surpass ourselves, achieve aesthetic balance, and deliver innovative solutions. Our inspiration comes from both the wisdom of historical masters and the potential of modern technologies. What matters most to us is crafting a unique design language that seamlessly blends functionality with beauty. With every project, we learn, evolve, and continue working toward something greater.