Page 29: of Maritime Reporter Magazine (October 2014)

www.marinelink.com 29 time ago, but that we see clearly now, is the boutique hotel look which is a more intimate design style refl ecting what one would fi nd on land. Also the sophistica- tion and diversity in entertainment on- board and the great variety in attractions are continuously evolving.

When you look at the cruise and pas- senger vessel market, what do you see as the most signifi cant evolution in cruise ship design, and why? The current focus is toward cleaner, more contemporary, timeless designs as can be seen in the hospitality trends today.

Ships in general – cruise ships in par- ticular – continue to grow bigger with ever complex amenities and entertain- ment. I have heard suggestions that ships are getting too big, outgrowing safety systems and the ability to evac- uate safely in an emergency. What are your thoughts on the subject. Despite the size the ships are safer than ever. As past experience is im- plemented the regulatory requirements become stricter. Safety is always at the forefront of cruise ship designs, from the owner, the shipyards and also from us as designers. The evolution of new technol- ogy and materials is creating not only a vast array of possibilities for designs, but also has increased the safety onboard.

It’s just amazing how stable and com- fortable the larger ships are.

What is the one project that you have completed that you are most proud of? It’s hard to single out any one project as we take pride in all our en- deavours. Every project for us is special whether large or small. The client’s satis- faction with our work is “the proof of the pudding” and we are happy to say that we collaborate with many wonderful cli- ents in the cruise industry.

What, or who, do you count as the biggest infl uence on your design, and why? Robert Tillberg, my father, and his style of being careful to listen and not only having certainty as a designer but also being practical and considerate of everyone he associated with. He was very secure in his knowledge of design which allowed him to encourage others to develop their creativity.

When your career is done and you look back on your body of work, how would you like to be remembered? Well, Robert retired when he was 85, so I probably still have a few years to contemplate the answer to that question!

However, when I look at the list of stellar clients and the amazing body of work that our fi rm has created and all the talented and dedicated designers that I have been privileged to work with, I re- alize that I have been very fortunate. My wish would be that through their creativ- ity and dedication the Tillberg name will be respected long into the future.

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