Proteksan Turqoise recently reached the shortlist for the IY&A Awards 2014, with the interior designing done by J G Verges Design & Shoreline. Their project, Ileria (click to view), will compete for the Power Yacht over 40 metre Award. (To enter the awards email awards@design-et-al.co.uk)

Jean Guy Vergès

Name: Jean Guy Vergès

Company: J G Verges Design & Shoreline

Position within company: Owner

Website: www.j-g-verges-design.com / www.proteksan-turquoise.com

What direction do you feel design is moving towards in general terms?

There are various ways and approaches today, some are for me unrealistic and some work well, as a yacht or a plane will always remain a machine that goes to sea or flies high in the sky, I guess you can’t go over some of the rules as those machines are confronted by natural elements that never play the same game. So playing the extravagant or very sophisticated design, for me may not fit the requirements, which does not mean that I refrain myself when designing. There is just the right balance to find and develop, to get a well working design.

A designer’s work is so diverse – how do you manage to hold down a career and a life?

I do separate my professional life from my private life when I switch off from work; I don’t talk about it at home or with friends.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design

Ease of living, functionality, detailing, aesthetic, comfort (If you’re talking design conception)

An open space inside to outside, large flow of natural light, use of natural materials, airy interiors, a relaxing and inviting feeling (if you’re talking design trend)

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?

Don’t rush, think twice to get the best result and achievement that corresponds to the wishes and request of the client.

How important are The International Yacht and Aviation Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?

It’s always important to get recognition for achievements and talent, as this helps going forward as well as showing what you do, in addition to being able to confront ideas and ways of approaching design solutions.

How do you relax?

Long walk on the ocean shoreline with my dog and my daughter

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?

Living well and peacefully and having my daughter healthy and happy

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself:

The car you drive? VW Amarok Pick up

Your favourite place to travel to in the world? Florida Keys

Your favourite hotel/ restaurant/ bar? No preference, I like change

The place that gives you the most energy? Where I’m living now on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean

And the place that enables you to totally relax? Big Towns and crowded places

Your favourite food and drink? Fish, vegetables, fruit, spring water, natural juice, tea and sometimes wine