Introduction by Jonny Horsfield

Founder & Design Director

Q Why H2?

At the beginning of any interview I am often asked ‘why H2’?

I always give the same answer - the clue to that answer is in the name H2! When I started the company I did not want to name the company the ‘Jonny Horsfield design company’. Many excellent yacht designers go down this route and they have developed a ‘house style’ that their clients want and are happy to buy into. My clients however tend to see things a little differently. They appreciate the designers who have this strong house style, but do not want this for themselves. Instead they are looking for something a little different and unique and want to play a more active role in the design process to add some of their own identity into their yacht.

To achieve this they are seeking a designer who can work with them to achieve their dream, rather than force a design upon them in a ‘one size’ fits all process. We have a strong female representation, enabling us to respond to our clients preferences whilst accommodating their partners wishes. We do not therefore have a ‘house style’ as such. That is why every H2 interior is quite different to the last and is designed totally around that client’s requirements and tastes.

Q Give a brief description of what your job entails?

I am the design director which means I have to take an active part in the design process of all our projects whilst a ‘project designer’ fills in the gaps for me.

I am responsible for the creative process with the owner and set the theme for my designers to run with. This involves me producing initial creative sketches which are then developed. I then continuously filter everything to control quality. I liaise with all my clients personally and attend most monthly project meetings with shipyards and contractors. I find that much refinement of the design is done during these yard meetings and it is essential I attend them.

Q Do you do exterior design as well and if so which do you prefer?

Yes, it is an equally important part of our business as for me the interior and exterior are totally interlinked for a successful project. I have no preference as I don’t see them as separate.

Q Do you only design yachts?

No, H2 have recently been involved in substantial residential projects. We also work with many suppliers refining and developing products for use in the marine industry.

Q How often do you personally visit a yacht during the fitting out?

I attend every monthly meeting and more often during the final stages of completion.

Q Do you have any say in the selection of interior build contractors?

Obviously we prefer to work with companies we have experience with as they have proven to provide the best quality, though I also understand that budget limitations require me to develop new relationships with unfamiliar contractors.

Q In your opinion, what makes a good design in today’s market and converse to that, what makes bad design?

For me a design should have ‘legs’ and stand the test of time. In recent times many clients have been persuaded into extremely fashionable interiors that are not as functional as they could be. In reality, I look forward to refitting them in the next few years!