In Profile:
Falcon Tenders

Name: Mark Pascoe

Company: Falcon Tenders Limited

Position within company: Founder/CEO/Director

Website: https://falcon-tenders.com/

Tell us a little about your background in design:

I went to a private school in London, Dulwich College, started as a marine engineering apprentice in 1979, studied in Kingston for a national diploma in engineering and Southampton for a degree in Yacht & boatyard management. Following a successful career as the technical director of Class 1 offshore powerboat teams, including an official factory Lamborghini Team, I started my own high performance RIB building business, this led on to building the finest yacht tenders for the Maltese Falcon, I have now seen over 200 tenders delivered to the superyacht industry.

How would you describe your personal design style?

I have an innovative and luxurious design style, particularly in the realm of yacht tenders and small boats. My design ethos often revolves around blending cutting-edge technology with exquisite craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal. I try to incorporate sleek lines and a streamlined aesthetic, reflecting the sophistication of the yachting lifestyle. My meticulous attention to detail, ensures that every aspect of the tender’s design serves both practical and aesthetic purposes. One of my hallmarks is the ability to tailor designs to the specific needs and preferences of each client, offering bespoke solutions that seamlessly integrate with the larger yacht’s design and functionality.

Where does your design inspiration come from?

Overall, my inspiration comes from a combination of natural beauty, yachting lifestyle, design principles, client collaboration, and cultural influences, all of which contribute to the innovative and luxurious designs created for Falcon Tenders. I often look to the natural world for inspiration, incorporating organic shapes, textures, and colour palettes into the designs. The fluidity of water, the rugged beauty of coastlines, and the graceful forms of marine life can all influence my creative vision.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?

I feel there is a growing emphasis on sustainable design practices, driven by concerns about climate change and environmental impact. Falcon Tenders are increasingly incorporating eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies, and sustainable manufacturing processes into our work.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2024 and beyond.

As environmental concerns continue to grow, Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility will remain a critical focus in design, along with Digital Integration and Immersive Experiences, Inclusivity and Accessibility, Resilient and Adaptive Design, and Ethical and Social Responsibility.

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

One crucial piece of advice when it comes to design is to prioritise coherence and harmony. Regardless of the style or theme you’re aiming for, ensuring that all elements within your design scheme work together cohesively is essential for creating a visually pleasing and functional end product.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?

I cannot choose on particular project; I enjoy them all finding fulfilment in the overall process of creating exceptional tenders that exceed the expectations of clients and push the boundaries of design and engineering.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?

Yacht tenders need to seamlessly integrate with the overall design and functionality of the parent yacht. Ensuring compatibility, harmonious aesthetics, and optimal performance within the constraints of the yacht’s garages. All my projects have a combination of these and other factors that require ingenuity, expertise, and meticulous attention to detail to overcome.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing?

I could not live without the Design Software and my incredible team of young designers by my side.

How important are The International Yacht & Aviation Awards?

Being Shortlisted or Winning an award from a respected institution like the IYAA can enhance Falcon Tenders’ reputation and prestige within the industry. It serves as external validation of the company’s design excellence, craftsmanship, and innovation, which can help attract new clients and partners. Achieving recognition through awards boosts employee morale and motivation within Falcon Tenders’ team. It validates their hard work, creativity, and dedication to excellence, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment among staff members.

What projects are you currently working on?

I have a pipeline of projects in various stages of development, including design, manufacturing, and delivery. These projects are all custom yacht tender commissions for individual clients, we have some very exciting new tenders coming up, including a new SOLAS rescue tender.

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

Building strong, long-lasting relationships with clients is crucial for sustaining business growth. Falcon Tenders would like to enhance client satisfaction, improve communication, and provide exceptional customer service throughout the entire tender design, manufacturing, and delivery process.

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:

Traveling to new destinations sparks creativity and exposes me to different cultures, architectural styles, and design trends. I draw inspiration from the landscapes, architecture, and local craftsmanship of the places I visit. Collaborating with clients and understanding their vision, preferences, and lifestyle is a source of inspiration. Each project presents unique challenges and opportunities to create bespokesolutions that reflect the individuality of the client and the context of the project.

Your most treasured possession?

I don’t really have many possessions, my family, friends and close team of work colleagues are the most important things for me.

Your favourite holiday destination?

The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur), France: With its glamorous ports, stunning beaches, and picturesque coastal towns like Saint-Tropez, Monaco and Cannes, the French Riviera is a magnet for luxury yacht owners and travellers seeking a chic and sophisticated holiday experience.

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?

I favour luxury boutique hotels or five-star resorts known for their impeccable service, stunning design, and exclusive amenities, I appreciate fine dining establishments with innovative culinary concepts, top-notch ingredients, and sophisticated ambiance. I enjoy elegant cocktail bars with a focus on craft cocktails, premium spirits, and stylish décor, such as The American Bar at The Savoy in London.

Your favourite book, film & song?

“The Maltese Falcon” is very dear to me as an old film and book by Dashiell Hammett, this is where the names of Falcon’s first tenders came from; Miss Wonderly & Miss Leblanc are both characters in the iconic film. I like many varied music genres such as jazz, bossa nova, or ambient electronic music, which evoke a sense of elegance and luxury.

Your favourite food and drink?

I enjoy fine wines or champagne, particularly varieties that pair well with food or are suitable for elegant occasions. I appreciate craft cocktails made with premium spirits and artisanal ingredients and enjoy classic cocktails with a twist or signature drinks inspired by my travels and experiences.

I love a Kobe beef steak, cooked to perfection using high-heat methods such as grilling, searing, or teppanyaki (hibachi-style cooking), that allow the marbled fat to melt and impart its distinctive buttery flavour throughout the meat.

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?

Networking with industry peers, partners, or clients, whether it’s attending yacht shows and industry events, hosting business meetings on board a yacht, or participating in exclusive social gatherings within the luxury marine community.

If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?

Perhaps working in the luxury hospitality industry, applying my knowledge of design, aesthetics, and customer service to create exceptional guest experiences at high-end resorts, boutique hotels, or luxury spas specialising in marine wellness.