In Profile:
Emotto Design

Name: Evgeni Popov
Company Name: EMOTTO DESIGN
Position Within Company: Founder / Chief designer
Website: https://www.emotto-design.com/

Tell us a little about your background in the sector:
I was born in Sofia, Bulgaria, at the foot of the mountains, where I developed a deep respect for nature. My passion for yachting began during family sailing trips in the Black Sea and Aegean Sea.

After studying at the Italian college in Sofia, I pursued Industrial Design at the Istituto Europeo di Design in Milan. For my bachelor’s thesis, I collaborated with Hot Lab and Mondo Marine on a 26m Navetta project, which inspired me to continue my studies in yacht design at IED Torino.

After graduating, I interned at Monte Carlo Yachts in Italy, working as an exterior designer on prototypes like the MCY105 and MCY80. Seeking new challenges, I joined J&J Studio in Ljubljana, contributing to projects such as the Greenline 65 and Bavaria R55.

My passion for nautical design and Italian aesthetics led me to AM Design with Alberto Mancini, where I specialized in layout and exterior design for brands like Azimut, Mangusta, and Fairline. I was fortunate to work on award-winning yachts, including Azimut S10, S8, F78, Mangusta Oceano 50, and Fairline T43.

Following my time at AM Design, I became a freelance consultant for Canti & Partners, expanding my experience with mega yachts and large-scale projects.

Eventually, I returned to Sofia to establish my own studio, Emotto. Inspired by nature and Italian style, I focus on industrial and yacht design, blending creativity and expertise. Currently, I collaborate with Galera 07, a Bulgarian shipyard, designing and manufacturing electric boats. This partnership allows me to explore innovative, sustainable solutions in marine design.

How would you describe your design ethos?
From an early age, with the encouragement of my family, I spent much of my youth sailing the Black Sea and skiing in the Bulgarian mountains. This deep immersion in nature instilled in me a profound respect for the environment and a strong commitment to sustainability, shaping the mindset I bring to every project.

Another hallmark of my design philosophy is a focus on functionality, enriched by the elegance and sophistication of Italian design. Whether I’m designing a yacht or any other product, I prioritize practicality and user-centric solutions, supported by ergonomic research, thoughtful product architecture, and well-planned layouts.

Where does your design inspiration come from?
Time spent outdoors has shaped my creative approach, guided by the organic lines and forms found in nature. My studies in Italy exposed me to the country’s rich artistic heritage, adding a touch of Italian elegance to my projects. However, it is the hidden wonders of winter mountains and summer seas that truly define my aesthetic. As I often like to say, “Nature is the only art movement that has no age and is always modern.”

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I believe design is constantly evolving, and creating a single object or designing a space is no longer what it used to be. Today, everyone is part of the design process, with advanced software and AI enabling individuals to find solutions without necessarily relying on a designer. This is why a designer’s role should go beyond simply delivering a product. A designer should provide a comprehensive service that integrates functionality and user experience on a broader scale, considering the wider environment.

To stay competitive, it’s essential to think ahead and offer something truly unique. While luxury boat design doesn’t always follow the same principles as other industries, recent developments, such as the integration of electric engines and the rise of boat-sharing and charter platforms are making boats more accessible to a wider audience. Sooner or later, the boating industry will fully align with these broader trends in design and technology.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future.
I believe the five key themes that every designer should prioritize in the future are:

• Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness
• Functionality
• Low Maintenance
• Natural Harmony
• Innovative Evolution

These principles form the foundation for creating designs that are not only relevant today but also resilient and forward-thinking for the future.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be?
For a design to be successful, it’s crucial to genuinely listen to the client. Understanding their needs requires patience, thoughtful analysis, and a clear focus on aligning the design with their philosophy. The essence of any project lies in co-creating the brief, as it serves as the core framework that guides every stage of the process from start to finish.

How important are The International Yacht & Aviation Awards?
The International Yacht and Aviation Awards are important for an emerging designer like me because they offer a rare opportunity for both myself and my project to gain visibility within a broad industry audience. They also serve as a valuable meeting point for craftsmen and professionals, fostering connections and collaborations. Most importantly, they provide a platform to set new design trends, and being part of the community that is shaping the future of yachting is a true honor.

What projects are you currently working on?
I’m currently working on an industrial design project for a control device used in infrared saunas. In the boating industry, I’m overseeing the final stages and preparing the production drawings for a 30-foot electric boat, which I designed last year for the Bulgarian shipyard Galera 07.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?
My favorite project is the S/Y Samodiva, which was recently shortlisted for this competition. What makes it special is that I had the opportunity to create the brief myself and execute it according to my own vision, drawing on the skills and creativity I’ve developed throughout my life. It was a project that was both enjoyable and deeply fulfilling.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?
The most challenging project was probably my bachelor thesis of 26m Navetta, developed in collaboration with the Italian studio Hot Lab and the shipyard Mondo Marine. It was the first yacht I had ever designed, and we started the project with almost no prior experience in the field. Additionally, there were some misunderstandings within our class group, which eventually led to the team splitting up. In the end, it was just me and my colleague Carlotta working on the thesis.

We put in an incredible amount of effort- at one point, I even injured my eye while working on the physical model, determined to make our project competitive and achieve strong results. In the end, everything turned out exceptionally well, and we graduated with one of the highest grades in the class.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing?
The products I can’t live without while designing are my UNI Jetstream Edge 0.38mm pen and my Faviani Schizza e Strappa sketchpad with 50g/m² paper. They are essential for capturing the ideas flowing from my mind through my hands. Another thing I’ve learned from the Italians is the importance of good coffee during the day, so I also can’t live without my Gaggia coffee machine.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
In the next twelve months, I expect to see my first personally designed boat on the water, which will be an incredible milestone in my personal development. I’m also looking forward to starting an exciting new project with the same shipyard. Being shortlisted for the prestigious International Yacht and Aviation Award is a unique honor, and I’m eager to explore all opportunities to connect with potential clients and inspiring people in the industry. Of course, it’s important to stay focused and patient, working hard while exploring new ideas and designs. And who knows, maybe even win the award!

Your most treasured possession?
My most treasured possessions are not material and hold no monetary value. They are my mind and my soul, which define me as a unique individual. Shaped throughout my life’s journey, they now represent me as the artist, the designer, and the person I am today.

If in any case you’re talking about a material possession, the Norwegian wood-burning heater from Jøtul that I bought for our holiday house is priceless. It creates a unique, cozy atmosphere while providing the warmth we need on cold winter nights.

Your favourite holiday destination?
I don’t stick to any particular place. I’m constantly exploring new gems of nature and culture. Of course, I’m naturally drawn to places where the snow is deep and fresh or the seas are warm and windy.

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Hotel: Edelhof, Tarvisio, Italy
Restaurant: Capra, Koper, Slovenia
Bar: Dream Team Bar, Trieste, Italy ( The best Moscow mule ever )

Your favourite book, film & song?
Book: The Fountainhead, Ayn Rand
Film: Zorba the Greek, Michael Cacoyannis
Song: I don’t have a favorite song. I’m always exploring new artists and performances. There’s something beautiful to be found in every genre of music, something that can touch your heart and soul.

Your favourite food and drink?
Food: Just like with music, I don’t have a favorite food. I’m always exploring international cuisine wherever I go, discovering unique flavors and experiences. That said, I do have a personal preference for Mediterranean cuisine, especially the rich tastes from my region- Bulgaria, Greece, and Turkey.
Drink: Moscow mule

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
My favorite way to spend the afternoon varies depending on the season. If I’m not working, my winter afternoons are usually spent in the mountains, skiing or hiking until around 3 PM. After that, I enjoy relaxing at home, listening to vinyl records, reading a good book, and sipping a warm cup of tea. In the summer, you’ll find me on the beach or out on a boat, soaking up the sun, enjoying the sea breeze, and perhaps savoring a good cocktail in the company of friends.

If you weren’t in this sector, what would you alternative profession be?
If I weren’t a designer, I’d definitely be a chef with my own cottage restaurant, where people could enjoy a variety of homemade dishes. I love cooking for others, I’m passionate about food, and I’d cherish being in a cozy place surrounded by nature.

Exterior Designer: Emotto Design

Interior Designer: Emotto Design