In 2016, Andrew Winch Designs will celebrate its 30th year in business. Since Andrew Winch and his wife Jane started the business from their cottage in Barnes, in the UK, the company has grown organically from one fledgling yacht designer to an international design studio with a team of 65 people.
To mark the occasion, an evolution of the brand has been unveiled. The company is now called Winch Design, in recognition of its multidisciplinary approach, and it has an updated logo and website. “We are also introducing a different livery for each department so that they can really build their own identity,” said Andrew Winch. “Sapphire blue is our corporate colour, a sky blue for aviation, aqua for yachts and stone for architecture.”
While some things are evolving, most aspects of the business remain the same. The company says its heritage is firmly rooted in yachts, and it will continue with a family feel at its heart, exemplified by the fact the entire team has lunch together every day. Andrew Winch will continue to lead the company, supported by Jane Winch and the management team. “I am so proud of all that has been achieved over the last 30 years,” said Andrew Winch. “We have a meaningful heritage and an exciting future with a talented team, who each bring something unique to the business.”
Andrew Winch designed his first boat, a Swan 36, in 1986. The company’s first project in the aviation sector was a BBJ II in 2002. The company says the plan for the future is not specifically about growth, but about working on inspirational projects that push both design and technical boundaries.
“We have some exceptional projects due for completion over the next two to three years in all three sectors,” said Andrew Winch. “The yacht team is working on a boat at Luerssen that is the largest volume boat ever built. The aviation team is working on the first privately owned Dreamliner 787-9, and the architecture team is working on several projects around the world, including a yacht club in Europe.”
To celebrate the company’s 30th year, a London to Monaco bike ride will take place in September 2016, with the aim of raising £500,000 for The Blue Marine Foundation. Many people from Winch Design will be taking part, as well as people from the wider industry.
December 1, 2015
