Few are so fortunate as to find a vocation which makes full use of their talents and about which they are also passionate. I have found such a career in designing customized boat decor items and decorating yachts, be it motor or sail, from stem to stern.

While I began my own yacht design business, August Brown Designs LLC, in early 2006, there is a longer back-story. I recognized my flair for design while still in school, and have applied it in many areas, including large corporate spaces and home interiors. Then several years ago, I was granted a contract to create a series of color schemes for the fabrics and finishes to be used above and below deck in higher end yachts. (See my Design page.) These were developed to assist dealers and customers in personalizing and customizing their yachts' interiors. I soon became entranced with the challenge and aesthetic satisfaction of this work. The very positive feedback which I have received from those dealers and owners with whom I have worked has been wonderful, and has encouraged me to continue with yacht design as my permanent career.

I cater to the needs and time frames of all of my clients. Whether designing personalized interiors for dealers or owners, refreshing a look that is worn or outdated, or styling and accessorizing boats for shows or photo shoots, my goal is always to delight the client - as well as meet the deadline! I recognize that every client is unique, with his or her personal vision.

Be it contemporary, traditional, eclectic, or even whimsical, I work to make their reality even better than their dreams.

One of the recent highlights of my work has been collaborating with Chris DiMillo, owner of DiMillo's Marina and Yacht Sales, with offices in Portland and Freeport, Maine, as well as Freeport, New York. Chris hired me to work with him to develop the color scheme and styling of Sabre Yachts' newest motor model, the 52 Salon Express. The result of our efforts can be seen on the cover and in an article in Yachting Magazine's August 2007 issue, as well as on Sabre's web site.

I look forward to each new boat and each new challenge, and especially to meeting and working with all of you who motor or sail be it fresh or salt water.. all over the world.

Susan August-Brown