We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Alessandro Inno ("AI").
Alessandro Inno is the founder and president of inogroup. He acquired his professional experience as a production and design supervisor and manager at some of Italy’s most important shipyards, including Cantieri Navali del Golfo and Italcraft for almost 15 years and successively. In 1998 he founded Inò Group, putting into practice his idea of revolutionizing the yachting design world with a winning combination of engineering know-how and architectural culture. Alessandro Inno designs motor and sailing yachts, with just one objective in mind: innovating and looking to the future with creativity and technology. The sky is grey on the Roman coast, but Inno’s welcome is like a ray of sunshine. He gives off a sense of energy and optimism, but above all, practicality. The Craftsmanship and technology go hand in hand in the work of Ino Group, a Roman boat design studio founded in 1998. It works for major yards both in Italy and around the world, including Azimut, Salpa, Emirates Boats and Raphael Yacht. As well as using highly sophisticated software, they also produce drawings by hand. «I always start with a hand drawing», he tells us, showing us a pile of A4 sheets. A number of sketches on shiny paper are the oldest: «I keep them because even old ideas can be a source of great inspiration». In fact, Alessandro Inno feels like a craftsman to all intents and purposes. His words reveal a somewhat old-fashioned sense of work, consisting of dedication and consistency, but also poetry and a real love for what he does. Today, Ino Group primarily works with yards that carry out production boats. «It’s important to keep the entire process under control and keep the production costs low», he explains to us. This is his studio’s real strength: putting forward top-quality projects at contained costs. «Working for a large yard that builds custom mega yachts is a very different matter». Ino Group obviously does this too, but stepping things up a gear: designing in a financially sustainable manner, anticipating everything from the outset, mechanical parts included. Production boats are not child’s play. «By designing everything down to the smallest detail we help the yard build production boats of excellent quality». This is clearly demonstrated by the experience at Cobrey Yacht. This Polish firm was established in 2004. Its line of boats, designed by the studio run by Alessandro Inno (personally responsible for the 28,33, 50Fly,50HT, 42Fly), has set a trend. Design work was recently completed on the new Cobrey C70 Infinity. «We’re very satisfied. We’re building it now». Italian design, quality materials, safety and luxury, all in a single boat.
Alessandro Inno Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Alessandro Inno.
Alessandro Inno Design - Cobrey C45 Fly Motor Yacht
Designer Interview of Alessandro Inno:
DI: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
AI : My art and design background has deep roots in my family's tradition of shipbuilding. Since I was young, I have been immersed in a creative environment related to the world of boats. My father's experience and passion for boat building inspired me to pursue a career in ship design. I have always had a strong inclination for design and a passion for the beauty of lines and shapes. Being a yacht designer allows me to combine my creativity with my technical knowledge to create boats that are functional, safe and aesthetically stunning.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
AI : My company, called Ino Group, is a naval design studio based in Rome. We have a team of highly skilled architects, marine engineers and industrial designers. Our mission is to revolutionize the world of sailing through a winning combination of engineering and architectural culture. We offer complete design services, from the initial conception and conceptual development stage to the finest technical and technological details. We specialize in the design of pleasure boats for mass production and we actively collaborate with shipyards and shipowners to implement our projects.
DI: What is "design" for you?
AI : "Design" is the art of creating something that is functional, aesthetically pleasing, and meaningful. Design is not just about the visual aspect of an object or work, but also about its functionality, ergonomics and user experience. It is a creative process that requires a deep understanding of customer needs, market trends and technical capabilities. Design is a form of visual communication that can influence people's emotions and improve the quality of life.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
AI : I like to design a wide range of works, but I am particularly fascinated by the design of pleasure boats. The challenge of combining form, function, safety and comfort on a boat is a fascinating one. I like working with flowing and elegant lines, creating welcoming interior spaces and optimizing the use of the available space. Designing pleasure boats and ships allows me to combine my passion for design with my technical knowledge in the naval sector.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
AI : It is difficult to pick a favorite design, as each project has its own unique and charming characteristics. However, one of my favorite designs was a 50 meters luxury sailing vessel I designed for a discerning hydrogen-powered customer. This boat combines elegant and modern lines with a luxurious and comfortable interior. I have tried to create a balance between excellent sailing performance and on-board comfort, with particular attention to the quality of the materials and the ergonomics of the spaces. It was an inspiring project that challenged my creativity and my technical skills.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
AI : A patrol boat for the shipyard that I started working for at the same time as my studies. It was a relatively simple project, but it allowed me to put my initial knowledge of ship design into practice and learn the basics of mass production. It was an important step in my career and gave me confidence in my design skills.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
AI : I don't have an all-time favorite material, platform, or technology. My approach to design is oriented towards the best solution for each specific project. I use a wide range of materials, software and technological tools depending on the needs and specifications of the project. The choice of material and technology depends on the context, the performance required and the aesthetic vision.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
AI : I feel most creative when I'm immersed in an inspiring environment, surrounded by people who are passionate and able to collaborate. Collaboration and the exchange of ideas with my team inspire me and help me generate new creative solutions. Observing nature, exploring new places and interacting with different art forms also fuel my creativity.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
AI : When designing, I mainly focus on three aspects: functionality, aesthetics and innovation. I try to find the right balance between these elements, ensuring that the work is functional and ergonomic, aesthetically pleasing and able to offer a unique experience. Innovation is an important aspect for me as I always try to introduce new solutions and approaches in ship design.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
AI : I feel a mix of emotions. There is great excitement in conceiving new ideas and imagining how they will take shape. At the same time, there is also a certain responsibility in ensuring that the design meets customer expectations and functional needs. I like to see my work as an opportunity to create something meaningful and improve the lives of the people who will interact with the work.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
AI : I feel deep satisfaction and gratification. Seeing my design come to life and become an integral part of people's lives is a rewarding experience. I get excited to see people appreciate and enjoy my work. It is a confirmation of my commitment and my skills as a designer.
DI: What makes a design successful?
AI : A successful project is one that fully satisfies the customer's needs, both from a functional and aesthetic point of view. A successful project is also environmentally sustainable and responds to the challenges of the sector. Furthermore, a successful project is one that arouses emotions and creates an emotional bond with the people who use it.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
AI : First of all, I consider the adequacy of the proposed solution to the needs of the client and the context. I also value originality and innovation of design, quality of execution and attention to detail. Functionality, aesthetics and sustainability are aspects that I take into account during the evaluation.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
AI : A designer is responsible for creating solutions that improve people's quality of life and respect the environment. You must consider the environmental impact of the materials and production processes used, seeking to adopt sustainable approaches. A designer must also consider accessibility and ergonomics, ensuring that her works are accessible to all people, regardless of their abilities. Social responsibility is an important aspect, as a designer can contribute to solving social problems through inclusive design and the involvement of local communities.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
AI : The field of design is evolving rapidly thanks to the advancement of technologies and the growing awareness of the importance of design in everyday life. The future of design will be characterized by a greater integration of technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality and 3D printing. There will also be challenges related to sustainability and social responsibility, with an increased focus on eco-friendly design and human-centred design.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
AI : My latest exhibition was titled "Sailing into the Future" and was held at the National Museum of Modern Architecture in Rome. The exhibition also presented a selection of our most recent projects and explored new trends in naval design. At the moment I haven't planned my next exhibition yet, but I'm already planning several options where the boats I designed will be exhibited in international contexts such as the boat shows in Dusseldorf, Cannes, Miami and Dubai.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
AI : It comes from many different sources. I observe nature, urban development, contemporary art and architecture to get hints and ideas. I also immerse myself in different cultures and traditions, trying to integrate elements of different contexts into my design. My creativity is also fueled by collaborating with my team and by exchanging ideas during the design process.
DI: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
AI : My style can be described as modern with classical influences. I like to combine contemporary elements with traditional details and shapes, creating a balanced and harmonious aesthetic. The main characteristics of my style are elegance, simplicity and attention to detail. My approach to design is functionality and user experience oriented, seeking to create works that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical.
DI: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
AI : I live in Rome, Italy. Absolutely, my country's cultural heritage influences my projects. Italy is famous for its rich artistic and architectural background, and this historical legacy has a significant impact on my approach to design. Italian art, architecture and design are a constant source of inspiration for me and my team. However, there are also challenges associated with the Italian cultural context, such as the need to balance innovation and modernity with respect for tradition and conservation.
DI: How do you work with companies?
AI : We work with companies collaboratively. We are available for design consultancy, prototype design and assistance during the production process. We understand the specific needs of companies and support them in the creation of high quality pleasure boats. Our experience in the naval sector allows us to offer customized and innovative solutions that meet customer expectations and integrate into companies' production processes.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
AI : Understand your design needs and goals before looking for a designer. Clearly define what you are trying to achieve and what your expectations are. Do a thorough research to find a designer who has experience and skills relevant to your industry and specific projects. Communicate openly with the designer, sharing ideas, feedback and expectations. Look for a designer who has a good understanding of manufacturing processes and who can tailor his work to your needs and technical limitations.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
AI : My design process begins with a thorough research phase. I study industry trends, analyze customer needs and draw inspiration from many sources, including architecture, art and nature. Next, I move on to the ideation and concept development phase, where I translate my ideas into preliminary sketches and drawings. Once the concept is defined, I move on to the detailed design phase, using tools such as 3D modeling software to create accurate virtual models. Finally, I work closely with my team of engineers and architects to refine the design, resolve any technical issues, and ensure project feasibility and safety.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
AI : At home, my 5 favorite design objects are: An iconic design chair, like the Egg armchair by Arne Jacobsen. A modern and innovative chandelier, which adds a touch of elegance to the environment. A dining table with a unique design, which becomes the focal point of the dining room. A contemporary sculpture that gives personality to spaces. A rug that adds warmth and texture to your décor.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
AI : My days are always filled with stimulating and different activities. I start the day with a meeting with my team, where we discuss the progress of ongoing projects and plan the day's activities. After that, I dedicate myself to designing and developing new ideas, spending time exploring concepts and drawing sketches. During the day, I also hold meetings with clients, attend presentations or visit shipyards. Every day is an opportunity to collaborate with creative professionals and engage in the design process.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
AI : Be curious and keep learning. Design is a constantly evolving field, so try to stay up to date on the latest trends, technologies and materials. Cultivate your creativity. Explore different sources of inspiration, experiment, and don't be afraid to think outside the box. Work hard and be patient. Successful design takes time, dedication and perseverance. Don't give up in the face of challenges, but take them as an opportunity to grow. Develop interdisciplinary skills. Design is a field that connects with many other industries, so look to broaden your skills in several related disciplines.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
AI : The positive aspects include being able to express one's creativity, to contribute to the realization of meaningful projects and to have a tangible impact on people's lives through design. However, there are downsides too, such as the pressure to constantly innovate, working under tight deadlines, and the need to balance artistry with practical and technical considerations.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
AI : My "golden rule" in design is to always seek a balance between functionality and aesthetics. The design must be beautiful, but also practical and functional. I try to create works that are aesthetically appealing, but that are also useful and respond to customer needs.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
AI : They include creativity, critical thinking skills, knowledge of design principles and ergonomics, technical proficiency in design software, and the ability to communicate effectively with team and clients.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
AI : I use a variety of tools when designing, including 3D design software such as AutoCAD and Rhino, modeling and rendering programs such as KeyShot, rapid prototyping tools such as 3D printers, and reference materials such as books, magazines, and websites specializing in the design. I also find inspiration through travel, art, architecture and nature.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
AI : I manage my time in a strategic and organized way. I set clear goals and plan activities according to priorities. I use time management tools like calendars, to-do lists and reminders to stay organized and meet deadlines.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
AI : The time required to design an object from start to finish depends on the complexity of the project and specific requirements. It can range from weeks to months or even years, depending on the circumstances.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
AI : One of the most frequent questions I get asked as a designer is "How do you find inspiration for your projects?". I answer that inspiration can come from many different sources, such as nature, art, architecture, life experiences and the specific challenges of the project itself. It's important to stay open and curious, seek out new perspectives, and embrace research as an integral part of the design process.
DI: What was your most important job experience?
AI : Surely having managed shipyards as a manager for about 15 years was formative and decisive. But my most important work experience was founding Inò Group and developing the company into a point of reference in the naval design sector. It has been a fascinating and rewarding challenge, which has allowed me to put my vision into practice and work with talented professionals to deliver successful projects.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
AI : Some of my clients include QUEENS YACHT, AZIMUTH, AICON YACHT, SALPA, BAIA, OPERA, COBREY YACHT, RAPHAEL YACHT, ALPHAMARINE, SUNBIRD YACHT, EMIRATES BOAT.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
AI : 365 / 5.000 Risultati della traduzione Risultato di traduzione I really enjoy working on design projects for pleasure boats, both sailing and motor. It's a fascinating industry that allows me to express my passion for design and architecture, creating unique experiences for yacht owners. I like the combination of aesthetic beauty, technical performance and comfort on board the boats.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
AI : My future includes expanding partnerships with new production shipyards, introducing new technologies and innovative solutions in ship design and exploring new international markets. I am constantly looking for new challenges and opportunities to further my vision in the field of naval design.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
AI : I work both in groups and individually. My team at Inò Group is made up of professionals from different disciplines, and we work closely together to carry out projects. However, there are times when I do individual design and concept development work to explore ideas and create initial proposals.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
AI : Currently, we have several ongoing design works at Inò Group. Among the most interesting projects, we are developing a new model of luxury motor yacht that combines innovative design, outstanding performance and high level comfort at a speed of 100 knots. We are also working on a ship redevelopment project, where we are preserving classic elegance and introducing modern elements to offer a unique sailing experience. I'm excited about these projects and can't wait to see them take shape.
DI: How can people contact you?
AI : To contact Alessandro Inno and the Inò Group team, people can use the following contact methods: Website: Visit our website www.inogroupdesign.com and use the contact form to send us a direct message. Email: You can send an email to alessandro.inno@inogroup.it to communicate with us. Telephone: Call us on the telephone number +39 335 7738523 to speak directly with us. Social Media: You can follow and message us through our social media channels, such as Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. We will be happy to answer questions, provide further information about our projects and establish cooperation.
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
AI : An important issue that has not been addressed in these questions concerns the attention we pay to sustainability in ship design. In our design approach, we try to integrate eco-friendly solutions and materials, reduce the environmental impact and improve the energy efficiency of the boats. We believe it is essential to design with environmental responsibility and work towards a more sustainable future for the shipbuilding industry.