The Globus Design Associates Blog

Wooden Boats bring Mid-Century Modern and More to the Water

Mid-century modern has had its share of detractors, but I appreciate good vintage design - especially when it involves boats.  The June Antique and Classic Wooden Boat Show in St. Michaels, MD.  showcased some of great examples of classic design. These motor boats are far from sustainable but at least they exemplify one of the three R's (reduce, reuse and recycle). The owners would insist that I add a fourth R, restore, to the list. Take a look a these high stylers.

Chris Craft, St. Michaels, MD Photo: Suzan Globus

The mirror finish on this boat reflects its admirers. Photo:Suzan Globus

The maintenance requirements of this yacht don't detract from its visual appeal. Photo:Suzan Globus

A closer look at the yacht's streamlined details. Photo:Suzan Globus

A 31' Hackercraft built in 2003. Photo:Suzan Globus

A 20' Chris Craft, 1931. Photo:Suzan Globus

The sleek line of this Berglund boat contrasts with the dock. Photo:Suzan Globus

The name of this 1931 Chris Craft refers to its upkeep. Photo:Suzan Globus

Even the lines on the dock were stylish. Photo:Suzan Globus

The fin details and turquoise interiors of this Chris Craft  exhibit a 50's aesthetic. Photo:Suzan Globus

Reaping the fun of owning a beautiful wooden boat.

Can Green Design Translate to Boats?

If not green design, then good design certainly translates to boats. Is it the connection to sustainability or a romantic notion that draws me to the thought of jumping into a wooden boat and sailing off under the power of nature? I am not going to try to understand my attraction to classic wooden boats, especially sail boats; I'm just going to continue to admire the design of some of my favorite boats during my travels.

Oyster Boats

They aren't sail boats, but wooden Chesapeake Bay oyster boats get high marks for clean, honest design.

Oyster Boat, St. Michael's, MD. Photo: Suzan Globus.

Work boat, Chestertown, MD. Photo: Suzan Globus

Whether used for work or sport, these boats have  simple, elegant lines.

New work boats, Tilghman Island, MD. Photo: Suzan Globus

Model Boats

Far from simple, this wooden boat model being restored captures my eye for design details.

Model boat restoration work room, St. Michael's, MD. Photo: Suzan Globus

It's difficult for me to choose if the models or the organization of the workspace is more intriguing.

Antique wooden boat models, St. Michael's, MD. Photo: Suzan Globus

Sail Boats

Hinckley 42 Sail Boat, St. Michael's, MD.  Photo: Suzan Globus

The Hinckley Company stopped making wooden boats but retained the classic lines of this blue beauty on the right.

Cape Dory Typhoon, Navesink. NJ  Photo: Suzan Globus

I've had my eye on this Cape Dory sailboat on my way to work. Although she isn't made of wood, there is enough mahogany trim coupled with vintage lines to make my head turn.  I'd have to move my office off shore to justify her purchase as a commuting expense.

 
Navesink River sunset  Photo: Suzan Globus

For now, I'm looking forward to spending a few days away and wish soothing seas and good design to all.