Japec and Jernej Jakopin, founders of J&J Design
About us: our story
Our Story
The narrative of J&J Design unfolds from the intertwined passions of two brothers, whose early fascination with the sea charted a course towards innovation and sustainability in yacht design. From the groundbreaking Elan 31 to leading the wave in powerboat design, their journey is a testament to pushing boundaries while advocating for environmental responsibility. Their pioneering efforts in green boating have not only elevated J&J Design to the forefront of sustainable maritime architecture but also set new industry standards, marrying performance with eco-friendliness.
Over four decades, this journey has been adorned with accolades, embodying a dedication to excellence and a vision for a more sustainable relationship with our oceans. Their legacy is a beacon for future generations, signaling a path where innovation, sustainability, and design excellence converge to redefine the maritime industry.
J&J Design's story is not just about the boats they've created but about the impact they've had on the industry and the environment, inspiring a shift towards greener, more efficient, and sustainable maritime solutions.
Japec working on his very first boat, a 1912 Leut from Korčula.
Vis island, 1973
Innovating Maritime Excellence
The essence of J&J Design's narrative is a remarkable fusion of innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to sustainable maritime architecture. At its core, the studio, founded by the Jakopin brothers, Japec and Jernej, epitomizes the transformative journey from a shared familial passion for the sea into a globally recognized powerhouse in yacht design. This transformation was not merely about creating vessels but about pioneering a sustainable approach to maritime design that harmonizes aesthetic elegance, functional excellence, and environmental stewardship.
The Jakopin brothers, with their complementary backgrounds in medicine and architecture, brought a unique perspective to yacht design. This synergy of skills—Japec’s medical precision and Jernej’s architectural creativity—has been instrumental in steering J&J Design towards its innovative edge. Their vision was clear: to redefine the maritime industry's standards by integrating sustainability into the heart of yacht design, thus paving the way for the future of green boating.
Harmonizing Expertise: The Collective Force Behind J&J Design
As the studio evolved, so did its team, attracting top-tier talent from around the globe. Each designer and engineer at J&J Design contributes to a legacy of excellence, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in nautical architecture. This collective expertise enables the studio to take on complex projects, seamlessly blending form and function, and setting new benchmarks for efficiency and sustainability in the maritime industry.
Pioneering the Future: J&J's Design Milestones
J&J Design's portfolio highlights their role as frontrunners in yacht innovation, featuring not only the
Elan 31 but also pioneering projects like the Greenline series, which showcases their commitment to eco-friendly boating solutions. In collaboration with BMW/TYDE, they've ventured into the realm of foiling technology, further pushing the envelope of performance and efficiency.
These projects exemplify J&J's dedication to merging cutting-edge technology with sustainable design principles, setting new industry standards for excellence and innovation.These projects underline J&J's dedication to merging sustainability with luxury and performance, highlighting their role in shaping the future of yacht design with a commitment to environmental responsibility and cutting-edge aesthetics.
J&J Design’s journey is also marked by its contribution to green boating, an area where the studio has consistently led the industry towards more sustainable practices. By focusing on eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient designs, and pioneering hybrid propulsion systems, J&J Design has not only minimized the environmental impact of its vessels but has also set a precedent for the maritime industry at large.
Looking towards the future, J&J Design remains dedicated to exploring new horizons in yacht design, with a keen focus on sustainability, technological advancement, and the ever-evolving demands of the maritime market. The studio's ongoing projects reflect a forward-thinking approach, aiming to further reduce the ecological footprint of maritime activities while enhancing the sailing experience.
In reflecting on the legacy of J&J Design, it is clear that the studio’s impact extends beyond the vessels it creates. It is a narrative of vision, perseverance, and a deep-rooted belief in the potential of design to inspire change. As J&J Design continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the maritime industry, its story remains a beacon for innovation, sustainability, and the enduring allure of the sea.