Andrew Winch
Andrew Winch founded the renowned Winch Design studio, responsible for some of the world's most luxurious yacht interiors, exteriors, and aviation projects.
Andrew Winch is a preeminent English yacht designer and founder of Winch Design, a multi-disciplinary studio celebrated for creating some of the world's most ambitious custom superyachts, private aircraft, and residences.
Background & Core Philosophy
Andrew Winch’s lifelong passion for the sea began in childhood, sailing with his family on the Solent. He formally studied art and design before gaining practical experience as a skipper in the Caribbean and, crucially, as an apprentice to the legendary yacht designer Jon Bannenberg. This combination of formal education and hands-on nautical experience deeply informs his work.His core design philosophy is centered on creating spatial energy and emotion. He believes in a fully bespoke, client-immersive approach, starting each project with a "blank slate" to deeply understand the client's lifestyle and aspirations. The studio is known for its holistic service, managing everything from initial concept to the smallest details like linen and glassware.
Career Journey & Studio Evolution
Andrew Winch founded Andrew Winch Designs with his wife Jane in 1986, with their first project being a 36-foot Swan sailboat. The studio quickly gained recognition for larger projects, such as the interior of the 42-meter sailing yacht Cyclos III in 1989 and their first motor yacht, the 49-meter White Rabbit from Feadship in 1994.
Key milestones in the studio's growth include:
2021: Transitioned to full employee ownership via an Employee Ownership Trust, with Andrew Winch joining the Trustee Board.
2024: Moved to a new, consolidated headquarters in London to unite its growing team.
Today, Winch Design employs over 160 specialists across yacht, aviation, and architecture studios, and has won more than 50 international design awards.
Notable Projects & Collaborations
The studio's portfolio is vast, having collaborated with nearly all the world’s top superyacht shipyards, including Lürssen, Feadship, Oceanco, Amels, and Heesen. Landmark projects that define their yacht design legacy include:
- S/Y Dilbar (156m): One of the world's largest and most complex yachts.
- M/Y Al Mirqab (133m): An award-winning project known for its grandeur.
- M/Y Here Comes The Sun (89m) and M/Y Ace (87m): Iconic, award-winning modern superyachts.
Summary
Andrew Winch translated a personal passion for sailing into a global design powerhouse. His journey from sketching sailboats to directing a 160-person studio reflects a consistent commitment to bespoke craftsmanship, client collaboration, and multidisciplinary innovation. Under his foundational vision—now carried forward by an employee-owned team—Winch Design continues to "push the boundaries of luxury design" across sea, land, and air.
