Maritime Organization-certified materials in the early 1990s, but we worked with suppliers to develop such materials. For example, Hamburg-based greenery firm Dauerflora helped us bring large-scale plants onto the first AIDA Cruises ships. The company’s founder even put some samples into his car, opened the roof and drove along the motorway so he could test the durability of the leaves in strong winds. This led to the first steel pillars decorated with stabilised palm stems and leaves. Today you find trees, hedges and greenery on almost every ship. Schindler: It’s essential for designers to have a strong relationship with shipyards, outfitters and suppliers to ensure success. Over 47 years, I’ve worked with so many partners that listing them all would be impossible – and it wouldn’t be fair to single out individuals. What I can say is that people in shipbuilding are exceptional because they’re always solution oriented. Can you share any amusing or memorable stories that illustrate why you are so captivated by this industry? Bunge: There are many moments I remember fondly – the numerous warm encounters with people, keel layings, christenings, signing contracts and delivering successful presentations after long days of preparation. Another unforgettable moment happened during a design meeting with a shipowner, a shipyard and an outfitting firm, where we were trying to overcome structural challenges to implement a domed ceiling. As people were haggling for space my gaze fell upon the ship’s almost complete, 250-metre steel hull and I couldn’t believe we were arguing over millimetres. It showed me how important small details can be in such a large project, and also that solutions can only be achieved if everyone is involved in the conversation. Schindler: Many years ago, I supervised the construction of an office building for a shipowner. The construction company brought consultants and lawyers to site meetings – the focus wasn’t to solve problems but assign blame between trades. In 47 years of shipbuilding, I’ve never experienced such a situation in a shipyard. Everyone always shares the same goal – delivering the ship on time – and that can only be achieved through collaboration. What does the future look like for you and PSD? Bunge: When Siggi and I established PSD, we deliberately chose not to use our names because we wanted the company to be known for its creativity, expertise, reliability and integrity, rather than who led it. This also made every employee feel at home. We’ve come a long way and the company is even stronger than before the Covid pandemic. It’s time to pass the leadership to a younger generation. However, that doesn’t mean we’ll vanish from the scene; designing cruise ships is in our DNA! Schindler: Kai and I have worked successfully in the cruise ship market for 35 years. It’s time to embrace the ‘autumn of life’ with all its beautiful nuances. DESIGN LEGENDS PSD has introduced various interior innovations to cruise ships, including the three-deck Theatrium with expansive glass windows 124
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