Starboard - Issue 7

STYLE IN TRAVEL

EXPLORA JOURNEYS • SILVER DAWN • CELEBRITY BEYOND

CONTENTS ISSUE 7 ON WATER

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MAIDEN VOYAGE

© Gilles Trillard

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The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection Silver Nova Aman Sama Cunard Queen Anne Viking Mississippi Linblad Islander II Carnival Celebration A-Rosa Sena

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VOYAGES Le Commandant Charcot Celebrity Beyond Silver Dawn Costa do Sal

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FEATURES Ocean State of Mind

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Meeting... Rottet Studio

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Shipping Forecast

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Explora Journeys CEO Michael Ungerer reveals why MSC is launching a new brand that is more akin to a boutique resort than a ship.

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As Rottet Studio nears its 100th design for Viking, the firm’s Founding Principal Richard Riviere explains how the relationship has evolved and why Norwegian culture has been key.

From sustainability to spas, Shipping Forecast explores the trends and news from the water.

REGULARS Welcome Events Cargo Final Call

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CONTENTS ISSUE 7 091

ON LAND MAIDEN VOYAGE Cadillac Halo Concept Portfolio Bentley Residences Continental x AMBIENC3 Hyundai Motors Lexus 2040 Via Rail Canada Jean Imbert x Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Midnight Trains

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FEATURES 078

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Orient Express La Dolce Vita

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Orient Express announces its debut in Italy, with trains designed by Dimorestudio to pay tribute to La Dolce Vita.

IN THE AIR MAIDEN VOYAGE

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Space Perspective AeroMobil Bellwether Industries Supernal Project Envergure Air France Elevate Collins Aerospace AirLounge Finnair x Iittala Lufthansa Explorer Quantas Project Sunrise

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WELCOME

ON THE COVER Explora Journeys

The Great Cruise Comeback

T

he cruise industry has been on quite a journey over

on board, but programming, biophilic design elements and

the past decade, sailing through the 2010s to record-

increased outdoor space are part of the offer. F&B is also

breaking levels, before slowing to a near-standstill in

reaching new heights, with brand partnerships, inventive

the early part of 2020 with the onset of Covid-19. Since then,

menus and headline chefs and mixologists bringing the same

it has been very much a case of survive to succeed.

levels of quality and choice seen in city centre dining to the

When we published the last issue of Starboard towards the

seas. And, in light of international pledges and initiatives,

back-end of 2021, the first green shoots of recovery were

sustainability is front-of-mind for cruise lines, with CLIA

beginning to show, and now, six months on, there’s renewed

members committed to pursuing net zero by 2050.

optimism for the future of cruise. A relaxation of the rules

These themes are prevalent across the entire sector, from

and regulations has played a key role: in Europe, multi-

the architects and interior designers envisioning new vessels,

port itineraries are back on; Australia has lifted its ban on

through the supply chain to product- and service-providers.

international cruise ships, and after two long years, the USA’s

In response, two new trade events are set to cater to these

CDC has dropped its Covid advisory warning. For the cruise

niches; the organisers of Cruise Ship Interiors Expo have

lines operating in these regions, this directly translates to

announced the Sustainable Design Summit, while Seatrade

bookings. When Oceania Cruises opened its 2024 collection of

Cruise Global has launched F&B @ Sea. Both come as a

voyages a few weeks ago, it became one of the best single-day

welcome vote of confidence for the future and contribute to

booking periods in the company’s history. And they’re not the

the great cruise comeback.

only ones. In further proof that consumer demand is there,

Elsewhere in this issue of Starboard – which covers style in

both Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean reported record

travel across all forms of transport – there’s yet more signs

bookings in April.

that travel and hospitality are being seen as one; traditional

In turn, this has given owners and operators the confidence

hotel groups are venturing to the tracks while automobile

to continue investing in their fleets. Many have spent time re-

companies explore opportunities in the sky. Such convergence

examining their offer and asking what future passengers want

is part of a wider trend to create a seamless travel experience

from their cruise experience, so along with the refurbishment

– the very reason this magazine came into existence. Welcome

and newbuild projects being announced, there’s new brands

to the new issue of Starboard. I hope you enjoy the journey.

and concepts to cater to a new mindset. Some ideas were already in motion prior to the pandemic and have since accelerated, while others address the concerns of a more conscious traveller. Personal wellbeing has undoubtedly become more important; not only are state-of-the-art spas and fitness facilities being given additional space and attention

Catherine Martin • Managing Editor

011

THE CREW @StarboardMagazine

EDITORIAL

DESIGN

FINANCE

Editor-in-Chief Matt Turner

Design Manager David Bell

Finance Director Amanda Giles

m.turner@mondiale.co.uk

d.bell@mondiale.co.uk

Managing Editor Catherine Martin

c.martin@mondiale.co.uk

Assistant Editor Ben Thomas

b.thomas@mondiale.co.uk

Editorial Assistant Eleanor Howard

e.howard@mondiale.co.uk

F&B Contributor Shanna McGoldrick

s.mcgoldrick@mondiale.co.uk

PORTFOLIO

a.giles@mondiale.co.uk

Group Financial Controller Sarah Healey EVENTS & MARKETING

Commercial Lead Kirsty Studholme

k.studholme@mondiale.co.uk

Event Manager Vicky Cruse

s.healey@mondiale.co.uk

Group Credit Controller Lynette Levi l.levi@mondiale.co.uk

Accounts Assistant Kerry Mountney

k.mountney@mondiale.co.uk

v.cruse@mondiale.co.uk

Content & Research Olivia Mavers

CORPORATE

Data & Marketing Lauren Blain

Chairman Damian Walsh

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ADVERTISING

l.blain@mondiale.co.uk

Business Development (FF&E) Rob Hart r.hart@mondiale.co.uk

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Business Development (FF&E) Charlotte Gowing c.gowing@mondiale.co.uk

Business Development (OS&E) Rachel Chadwick r.chadwick@mondiale.co.uk

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Starboard Issue 7 • Published May 2022 Subscription records maintained at Sleeper Media Mailed by Spatial Global • Printed by Buxton Press

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DRAWING BOARD

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

DRAWING BOARD

Ilma and Luminara THE RITZ-CARLTON YACHT COLLECTION

Ahead of the long-awaited debut of Evrima, The

Ritz-Carlton is famous for, and to ensure a

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has announced

successful transition on board.”

the expansion of its fleet with two new

Both Ilma and Luminara will feature 228

superyachts, Ilma and Luminara, slated for

suites, each with its own private terrace, and

delivery in 2024 and 2025.

in an evolution of Evrima, there will be two

Constructed by Chantiers de l’Atlantique,

new premium categories boasting up to 100m2

the vessels reaffirm the group’s commitment

of indoor and outdoor living space. Public areas

to sustainability, with enhanced features that

include five restaurants, six bars, a wine vault

significantly reduce emissions and minimise

and spa, as well as signature venues found on

environmental impact.

Evrima, such as an expanded marina with a new

Finland-based yacht stylist Aivan has

mezzanine feature.

developed the exterior profile of the ships,

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has also

taking inspiration from the sleek aesthetic of

revealed that it has the option for additional

private yacht design, while DPA will take the

vessels with its partner shipyard. “We are

lead on the lighting scheme, and AD Associates

thrilled to work with Chantiers de l’Atlantique

on interiors. “It’s both an honour and a privilege

on the development of our second and third

to design the interiors for The Ritz-Carlton

superyachts, Ilma and Luminara,” explains

Yacht Collection’s newbuild superyachts,” says

CEO Douglas Prothero. “They are a likeminded

Chris Finch, Founder and CEO of AD Associates.

organisation that is committed to excellence and

“Immersing ourselves and working alongside

a custom quality process and programme that

the brand, we are taking great care to learn

will help execute our vision as we thoughtfully

more about the iconic touchpoints that The

expand our portfolio.”

Silver Nova

Silversea Cruises has revealed details of the

– with the intention of elevating the aesthetic.

suites aboard Silver Nova, a 364-suite vessel

“It was important for us to maintain Silversea’s

SILVERSEA CRUISES

making its maiden voyage in Summer 2023.

Italian DNA while creating something new to

As the first in the operator’s Nova class,

the industry,” says Lorenzo. “We were asked to

the ship will feature an entirely new design

add a residential touch to the suites, so paid a

approach, with an asymmetrical configuration

lot of attention to the furniture and decorative

and horizontal layout meaning its suites run

lighting. Windows and balcony doors have also

the entire length of four decks. The decision to

been modified to expand sea views from the

divert from vertical distribution – which sees

balcony, while the doors themselves feature

suites positioned in the centre and forward

thinner frames to maximise natural light.”

section and public areas found on every deck

Inside, the design team used a fluted mirror

– will result in some suites facing directly aft,

rather than a flat surface to create dynamic

while others are expected to offer a private

reflections and provide added depth, while for

balcony with a glass balustrade and sea views.

the colour palette, they opted for a blend of soft

Architect Lorenzo Mortola and his father

and neutral tones with deep, subtle accents

Giacomo of Genoa-based studio GEM have

016

inspired by the sea and earth.

spearheaded the design of the suites, working

Ranging in size from 33-123m2, the suites

closely with the in-house team at Royal

evoke a sense of comfort and personal space,

Caribbean Group. The duo drew inspiration from

achieved via thoughtful design touches

the “whispered luxury” of Silversea’s recent

like walk-in closets, open bathrooms and

ships – Silver Muse, Moon, Dawn and Origin

headboards with integrated reading lights.

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

The closets have been equipped with intuitive

Silversea’s journey towards a greener future.

details such as dedicated compartments for

“Sustainability was a significant aspect of the

jewellery, while the bathrooms include a

brief, so we explored ways of bringing innovation

modern oversized mirror, a large vanity with

and evolution to the design,” Lorenzo confirms.

twin basins, a spacious walk-in shower, and a

“At the same time, we maintained the finest

bathtub or whirlpool. All benefit from generous

Italian craftsmanship through our selective use

balconies – from 5-40m2 – with select cabins

of luxury fabrics and textiles.”

offering 270-degree ocean and land views.

Aside from the suites, Silversea has also

The crown jewel for Silver Nova is the Otium

unveiled plans for a new pool deck and outdoor

Suite, inspired by Silversea’s new wellness

venues – including al fresco dining and a sky

programme. Located in the aft corner position,

bar – on decks 10 and 11, which make use of the

it is the most spacious category available and

ship’s outward-facing, asymmetrical layout to

features floor-to-ceiling windows in all living

provide panoramic views of the surroundings.

areas, unlocking panoramas of the water

Building on the group’s newly introduced

beyond. Its balcony is also the largest on board

design approach, Silver Nova will push the

and comes with its own private whirlpool,

boundaries in sustainable cruise travel with

while luxury amenities include custom-made

a series of pioneering credentials. The low-

mattresses, two flatscreen televisions, and a

emissions vessel has been billed as the first

sound system with Bluetooth connectivity.

in the industry to feature advanced hybrid

According to GEM, materials and textures have been thoughtfully selected in line with

technology, which utilises fuel cells to ensure it emits zero harmful emissions while in port.

ON DECK Route: Worldwide Maiden Voyage: Summer 2023 Owner: Royal Caribbean Group Operator: Silversea Cruises Interior Design: GEM Shipyard: Meyer Werft www.silversea.com

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MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

Project Sama

Following the setting sail of Amandira in

an exciting moment in Aman’s growth and

Indonesia’s Flores Sea, Aman has announced

evolution, as we not only continue to diversify

AMAN

a joint venture with Cruise Saudi to launch a

our portfolio on land, but also at sea, creating

luxury motor yacht for the Middle East.

sanctuaries in unfrequented locations and

Code-named Project Sama – meaning

continuing to reframe the concept of luxury

tranquillity in Sanskrit – the 183-metre ship

hospitality,” comments Vlad Doronin, Chairman

will accommodate 100 passengers across 50

and CEO of Aman. “Project Sama will provide

spacious suites, each with a private balcony. It

transformative experiences within the revered

will also feature an array of dining options, as

Aman setting and service, which is unlike any

well as a spa with Japanese garden, two helipads

other yacht experience, ultimately creating a

and an expansive Beach Club offering direct

whole new category in on the water discovery.”

access to the water at the stern.

ON DECK Maiden Voyage: 2025 Owner: Aman, Cruise Saudi Operator: Aman Architecture and Interior Design: Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design www.aman.com

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Fawaz Farooqui, Managing Director of Cruise

Designed in partnership with Sinot Yacht

Saudi, adds: “The signing of this partnership

Architecture & Design, the vessel will see

adds a new layer to Cruise Saudi’s offering and

Aman’s eastern heritage and design philosophy

is a testament to the unique tourism experience

integrated with the architectural vision to create

that is exploring Saudi by sea, as well as

a signature superyacht experience. True to the

demonstrating Cruise Saudi’s commitment to

ethos of the brand, the aesthetic will be timeless

growing and expanding the cruise industry in

yet contemporary, with a harmonious balance

Saudi. We aspire to further collaboration with

between interior and exterior spaces.

Aman that will bring additional ultra-luxury

“The announcement of Project Sama marks

experiences at sea.”

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MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

Queen Anne

Ahead of its debut in 2024, Cunard has revealed

advertisements and brochure covers to original

further design details of Queen Anne. The

plans of Cunard’s early Deco-inspired ships.

CUNARD

scheme – overseen by Creative Director Adam

The narrative is brought into play in the Grand

D Tihany – will see seasoned marine designers

Lobby, designed as a show-stopping entrance

Richmond International join forces with David

at the heart of the ship. Marking the transition

Collins Studio and Sybille de Margerie, who will

from past to present, the area is characterised

bring their land-based hospitality expertise to

by a three-storey mural that marries Art Deco

the water for the first time.

details with contemporary lighting effects.

“We’re working with world leading interior

In keeping with the blend of old and new,

designers and fresh creative talent,” explains

Queen Anne will feature much-loved signature

Lee Powell, Cunard Brand Vice President. “We’ve

venues from across the fleet alongside a host of

discussed and tested our ideas with guests from

new concepts – each designed to the overarching

around the world; and we’ve delved deep into

brand DNA.

the Cunard archives to make sure we can truly

ON DECK Maiden Voyage: 2024 Owner: Carnival Corporation Operator: Cunard Creative Director: Adam D Tihany Interior Design: David Collins Studio, Richmond International, Sybille de Margerie www.cunard.com

020

celebrate what makes Cunard so unique.”

“We have added layers of architectural details and design codes that refer back to Cunard’s

The overarching design concept was founded

history and add a touch of whimsy and British

on the five pillars of heritage, craftsmanship,

eccentricity to the experiences,” explains Lewis

storytelling, style and innovation. As such, the

Taylor, Design Director at David Collins Studio.

design team looked to the Cunard archives to

“These architectural design elements along

source inspiration from a rich trove of historical

with the exquisite level of service on board will

documents, ranging from iconic poster

make the new vessel truly unique.”

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MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

Viking Mississippi

Viking has celebrated the float-out of its new

Similar to the group’s ocean ships, Viking

386-guest Viking Mississippi in Louisiana,

Mississippi will feature an infinity pool at the

VIKING RIVER CRUISES

marking a major construction milestone and

aft, while further al fresco experiences include a

the first time it has touched water.

360-degree promenade deck, and The Bow – a

Set to debut in June 2022, the vessel is purpose-built for the Mississippi and will sail

ON DECK Maiden Voyage: June 2022 Operator: Viking River Cruises Interior Design: Rottet Studio Shipyard: Edison Chouest Offshore www.viking.com

022

unique outdoor seating area at the front of the ship to enjoy the riverside views.

both the upper and lower divisions of the river,

The cuisine and programming will take in

calling at ports in Tennessee, Missouri and Iowa

both the destination and Viking’s heritage; River

on its route between New Orleans and St Paul.

Café will serve Norwegian specialties prepared

On board, guests will experience Viking’s

using fresh ingredients from up and down

Scandinavian-inspired interiors, designed by

the river, while entertainment performances

long-standing partner Rottet Studio. The look

represent the iconic music of the region.

extends to the 193 staterooms – all of which are

“It is a proud moment that this new ship has

outward-facing – as well as signature spaces

met an American waterway for the first time,”

such as the Explorers’ Lounge, Aquavit Terrace

says Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “Our

and Living Room. New to Viking’s river offering

guests have long wanted to sail the Mississippi

will be a series of suites with wraparound

with Viking, and we very much look forward

private verandas, the first of their kind in the

to welcoming them on board this summer. We

fleet. Each comprises a bedroom, lounge and

are grateful to our American partner, Edison

spacious terrace, as well as expanded double-

Chouest Offshore, which has brought to life our

sink bathrooms.

vision of exploring the river the Viking way.”

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MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

Lindblad Islander II

Following the purchase and subsequent

According to AD Associates, further changes

renaming of the former Crystal Esprit, Lindblad

were required to cater to the ship’s new

LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS

Expeditions has revealed plans to revitalise the

expedition-focused operations: the extension

ship before it sets sail around the Galápagos

of the marina has made way for the storage

Islands this summer.

of wetsuit and snorkelling equipment, while

ON DECK Route: Galápagos Islands Maiden Voyage: Summer 2022 Owner: Lindblad Expeditions Operator: Lindblad National Geographic Cruises Interior Design: AD Associates Shipyard: Flender-Werft www.world.expeditions.com

Having worked on the vessel in 2015 – then

the casino has been replaced with a high-tech

tasked with turning the charter into a commercial

Science Hub, which comprises a library, cinema-

yacht – London-based design agency AD

style seating for lectures and presentations, and

Associates was once again selected to take the

a photo lab kitted-out with Apple Macs.

lead on the project. Tapping into its experience

Operated in partnership with National

and understanding of the complexities and

Geographic, the expedition yacht will honour

nuances of dry-dock refurbishments, the firm

its surroundings through design, programming

embarked on a light redesign and purposeful

and cuisine. “Lindblad Islander II has been

reconfiguration of various spaces.

purposely retrofitted for the Galápagos

Now accommodating 48 passengers across 26

Islands,” says Ana Esteves, Vice President of

spacious staterooms – the largest being the four

Hotel Operations at Lindblad Expeditions. “Our

Islander Suites – Lindblad Islander II features

guiding mission for the vessel is to make sure

an extended outdoor deck for al fresco dining

that guests feel an authentic connection to the

at Patio Café, as well as an upgraded lounge

surroundings, so our food and drink programme

bar with additional seating set around a central

will celebrate Ecuador, while the textiles and

speaker podium.

artwork on board will celebrate local artisans.”

© Lindblad Expeditions

024

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MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

Carnival Celebration

Carnival Cruise Line has revealed a new Miami-

décor reminiscent of the late-night eateries on

themed zone aboard Carnival Celebration,

Ocean Drive; Bar 820, a retro diner offering

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE

which will depart from Port Miami on its

grab-and-go Cuban and specialty coffees; and

maiden voyage later this year. Named after the

Deco Deli, designed in pastel hues to honour

address of Carnival’s original headquarters, 820

Miami’s Art Deco district and serving classic

Biscayne will celebrate the culture, architectural

deli sandwiches alongside local staples such as

styles and flavours of the city where the cruise

the Cubano. Guests can still expect to find firm

line was established back in 1972.

favourites including Rudi’s Seagrill, which was

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Maiden Voyage: November 2022 Owner: Carnival Corporation Operator: Carnival Cruise Line Shipyard: Meyer Turku www.carnival.com

026

Located on Deck 8, the venture is an evolution

introduced on Mardi Gras, and authentic Italian

of La Piazza on sister ship Mardi Gras; it will

restaurant Cucina del Capitano, currently being

feature a similar layout and venues, but with

redesigned for a new look and feel.

influences and design elements that reflect

“Miami is a one-of-a-kind city with

the urban-meets-laidback vibe of the coastal

many different sides to it,” explains Ben

city. Combining past and present, the aesthetic

Clement, Senior Vice President of Newbuilds,

sees elements such as Art Deco materials and

Refurbishments & Product Innovation at

detailing alongside contemporary murals of

Carnival Cruise Line. “We tried to capture all of

palm trees and fun photo opportunities like

that in 820 Biscayne – from the tropical feel and

flamingoes posing on skateboards.

original Art Deco designs that can still be found

The zone will also bring Miami-centric fare to

on Miami Beach today to the modern city look of

the fleet with an F&B line-up comprising Miami

Brickell – and of course, with a huge emphasis

Slice, a pizzeria with a contemporary and vibrant

on the delicious flavours throughout.”

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MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

A-Rosa Sena

A-Rosa Cruises has released renderings of the

still ship cabins and smaller than hotel rooms,

cabins aboard its new river vessel, set to make

so we used light colours and open bathrooms.

A-ROSA CRUISES

its maiden voyage on the Rhine this Summer.

The vessel will feel more spacious and, at the

Brought to life by Peter Joehnk and Corinna

same time, more intimate with individual areas

Kretschmar-Joehnk of Joi-Design – a Hamburg-

such as a winter garden and casual restaurant

based interiors studio that has transferred its

that could work just as well on land.”

experience in the hotel sector to the cruise

Rounding out the amenities is the brand’s

market – the ship comprises 140 cabins, many

signature Spa-Rosa, featuring a sauna,

of which are divided into sleeping and lounge

whirlpool and ice grotto, as well as a heat bench,

areas and feature balconies for river views.

relaxation and treatment rooms, and a gym.

The

ON DECK Maiden Voyage: May 2022 Owner: Duke Street Capital Operator: A-Rosa Cruises Flag State: Switzerland Interior Design: Joi-Design Shipyard: Concordia Damen www.arosa-cruises.com

028

vessel

has

been

designed

with

And to help protect the river for generations

multigenerational travel in mind, so Deck 1

to come, the ship’s E-motion technology will

is a designated family zone with a kids’ club,

see it switch to battery power when entering and

climbing wall and arts-and-crafts corner.

leaving port. “We know how important it is to

This approach extends to the accommodation

look after the areas we sail through, and A-Rosa

too, with 12 family cabins that sleep up to five

Sena’s innovative hybrid propulsion system will

people. Measuring 28ft2, they feature a large

play a part in this,” says Lucia Rowe, Managing

double bed, bunk beds with portholes, a sofa bed

Director for the UK & Ireland at A-Rosa River

and play area. “We developed a fresh, youthful

Cruises. “Her arrivals and departures are silent

concept with a natural look that functions well

and emission free, keeping our journeys cleaner

for families,” say Joi-Design. “Staterooms are

and greener.”

New Decorative Collection

E-lampmini

by Francesc Vilaró

leds-c4.com

Ocean State of Mind As the lines between the hotel and cruise sectors continue to blur, Explora Journeys CEO Michael Ungerer reveals why MSC is launching a new brand that is more akin to a boutique resort than a ship.

Words: Ben Thomas

F

or decades, the worlds of hotel and cruise ship co-existed with little commonality; the space planning, design and development of each were considered entirely different realms. In recent years however, the two sectors have

converged, opening up new ways of thinking that recognise how the principles of one speciality can be applied to the other to create an altogether better product, and ultimately a memorable guest experience. Consequently, more and more cruise lines are taking cues from the hotel community to bring a new aesthetic to their vessels.

Such was the case for MSC Group when it set about entering the ultra-luxury cruise market with Explora Journeys – a new brand that aims to “reinvent the classic cruise experience for the next generation of traveller” according to CEO Michael Ungerer, whose hospitality background aligns with the vision of owner Pierfrancesco Vago, his wife Alexa Aponte Vago and the Aponte Vago family. “The long-term view of Explora Journeys attracted me to the role,” says Ungerer. “I grew up in a family business, so I’m familiar with that sort of dynamic.”

Having worked for Sonesta Resorts and The Ritz-Carlton in the States before turning his hand to the marine sector at Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Corporation, Ungerer was able to draw on his hospitality expertise to establish a new type of cruise experience. Sitting down with Vago in 2018 before becoming CEO a year later, he was keen to discuss how Explora Journeys could stand out from the competition. “We saw a gap in the market for a brand that combines the best of a luxury resort, tour and cruise all in one,” Ungerer confirms.

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MEETING…

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The double-height lobby, with its herringbone flooring, forest green sofas and towering backbar, would not look out of place in a city hotel

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The two decided that the guest experience needed to

design process. “The brand is very personal to them,”

be at the core of the offer, and despite the challenges

he explains. “We all met with Martin in Geneva and

posed by the pandemic, they used the time wisely to

discussed several iterations for the bow, while Alexa

commission research, organise focus groups and host

was involved in designing the interiors, bringing in her

roundtables to distinguish exactly what their target

love of art to complement the various schemes.”

audience was looking for from a new ship. Time and

The brief for the interiors was to channel a sense of

space – arguably the greatest luxury – were two of the

European luxury, combining the family’s Mediterranean

common themes that emerged, helping to inform the

heritage with the look and feel of a boutique hotel.

Explora fleet’s overarching design concept.

Having partnered with MSC on its core fleet over the

Tapping into their list of contacts, the Aponte Vago

years, collaborators SMC Design, AD Associates, De Jorio

family called on Italian shipyard Fincantieri for the

Luxury and Yacht Projects have been entrusted with

construction of four vessels – one launching per year

interpreting the theme on board, creating sophisticated

between 2023 and 2026 – while British architect Martin

spaces – from 461 cabins to nine F&B outlets and a

Francis was tasked with ensuring the exterior profiles

700m2 spa – that are, in Ungerer’s words, “not stiff and

echoed those of a superyacht rather than a traditional

boring, but distinct and approachable”. The double-

ocean liner. The pièce de résistance of Francis’ vision

height lobby for instance, with its herringbone flooring,

is a unique magrodome – a sliding glass roof that can

forest green sofas and towering backbar, would not look

be opened and closed automatically depending on the

out of place in a cosmopolitan city hotel.

weather – which envelops a central swimming pool, for

Adding to the hotel-like aesthetic on board the

which he consulted Eckersley O’Callaghan, the structural

brand’s debut vessel are its homes at sea, a premium

designers behind Apple’s glazed store façades.

accommodation type comprising suites, penthouses

It was a true team effort according to Ungerer, with

and residences. Transporting the idea of a home-from-

the Aponte Vagos remaining hands-on throughout the

home to the ocean, the spaces feature areas to relax,

work or dine, while private terraces and floor-

single-use plastics will be eradicated across the

to-ceiling windows blur the boundaries inside

fleet and programming centred around local

and out, and mod-cons facilitate what Ungerer

craftsmanship, culture and cuisine.

describes as “hi-tech to serve high-touch”.

“The family has built a successful business

“We call them homes because of their size

from the sea for 300 years, so for them, being

and the way we want guests to feel when they

sustainable is crucial,” Ungerer explains. “It is

enter,” says Ungerer, adding that a collection of

woven into everything we do, from eco-friendly

books, ornaments and artworks serve to reinforce

technology and emission control systems to the

the residential aesthetic. “The design offers a

supply chain and materials on board.”

modern look that is neither brash nor noisy.”

“We saw a gap in the market for a brand that combines the best of a luxury resort, tour and cruise all in one.”

With a maiden voyage on the horizon and a

The same scheme will be applied to Explora II,

trio of vessels to follow, Ungerer is hopeful that

with interior details like dark timber, marble and

the industry will bounce back in time for MSC

artworks set against neutral and nautical tones.

Group’s entry into the ultra-luxury market.

The design will then evolve for Explora III and IV,

“Explora Journeys is the family’s passion

with the owners expected to retain the brand’s

project, so its launch was a natural evolution,”

original identity while welcoming new studios in

he concludes. And perhaps a natural next step for

to the fold for variation.

Ungerer too, combining his experience in hotels

One thing that won’t change however is

and cruise to create a product that offers the best

MSC’s commitment to sustainability, with the

of both. “I’ve come full circle so to speak, and

group pledging to reach net zero across its cruise

this was an opportunity to build a luxury cruise

operations by 2050. As such, Explora Journeys

brand from scratch. For me there’s nothing like

is tapping into the use of wind, hydrogen, fuel

arriving somewhere by ship, whether a city or

cells and bio-LNG as power sources, while

island – the ocean is the ultimate connector.”

Enveloping the vessel’s central pool is a sliding glass roof – or magrodome – which can be opened and closed depending on the weather conditions

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Meeting…

Rottet Studio As Rottet Studio nears its 100th design for Viking, the firm’s Founding Principal Richard Riviere explains how the relationship has evolved and why Norwegian culture has been key.

Words: Ben Thomas

PROFILE Richard Riviere Founding Principal Rottet Studio

With over 30 years of design experience under his

Tell us about the journey to 100 designs for

belt, Richard Riviere knows a thing or two about

Viking Cruises...

shaping hospitality environments. So when the

It’s a bit of a hyperbole, but the concept is true

Having joined Rottet Studio as Founding Principal in 2008, Richard Riviere now leads the firm’s West Coast and Asia divisions from its office in Los Angeles.

Texas native stepped into the marine sector to

as ships tend to be built by class, with many

collaborate with Viking a decade ago, he tapped

considered sister vessels of others that are of the

into his expertise in brand building to help the

same type in the fleet. When we started working

cruise operator develop a visual narrative for its

with Viking, the group had 11 river ships of

fleet of river and ocean vessels.

various styles, and since then, vessels have been

With a focus on brand building, Riviere’s design approach looks to visually reflect the culture of the client, placing particular emphasis on bridging the gap between brand-in-concept and brand-in-life.

Recent Launches: Viking Octantis; Viking Venus; Viking Saigon Upcoming Launches: Viking Mars (2022); Viking Aton (2022); Viking Saturn (2023)

Since then, Riviere has worked closely with

created as prototypes for a particular function

Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen to design

or location and we construct several of each. To

over 50 ships, from the 930-passenger Viking

date, the largest class is the longships in Europe;

Star in 2015 to the more recent Viking Polaris

there are over 60 of these and changes primarily

expedition vessel, which are characterised by a

occur in size to cater for different rivers and

contemporary Scandinavian style that reflects the

conditions. Viking also has ocean cruise liners –

company’s heritage.

eight sailing today with more under construction

It is this pared-back aesthetic – think clean

– and a series of purpose-built vessels for river

lines, natural woods and muted colours – that

cruising. More recently, the group launched the

has earned the group a reputation for offering

first of two expedition ships, with the second

more of a hotel-like experience, with Riviere’s

debuting later this year. Each project we do is a

hospitality background and Hagen’s Norse

design with subtle differences, so if we were to

heritage coming together to create a sense of

add them all up, 100 is not far off.

calm that is echoed throughout the public spaces and guest cabins.

According to Riviere, the consistent design

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Does Viking give you a specific design brief to work to for each project?

strategy will continue aboard forthcoming ocean

The brief is always to support and grow the

vessels such as Mars, Neptune and Saturn – a trio

portfolio that we helped create. Our partnership

of ships joining the portfolio within the next year

is less about moving from project to project and

– as well as on purpose-built vessels for the Nile,

more about the continuity of building a brand.

Mekong and Mississippi, which draw inspiration

The first venture we embarked on together – for

from Viking’s longships in Europe.

the longships in Europe – was a discovery process

MEETING…

of what Viking is all about and the experience its

How do you define that DNA?

Tell us about some of Viking’s forthcoming

ships have to offer. Instead of being restrictive,

We have what we call the toolbox, a series of

cruise projects…

every project since has been a voyage of discovery,

designs and ideas that have resonated with the

This year we will have helped Viking launch

with each ship type a different permutation of the

Viking team and its guests over the years. A good

ten new ships and introduce three new classes,

Viking DNA.

example is the brand’s signature bar, whose body

one of which is an expedition ship that will sail

is based on the Norse shipbuilding technique

around the Antarctic, Arctic and Great Lakes. I

How much creative freedom does Viking give

of overlapping hull planks – something that is

recently returned from our shakedown voyage

you and has this changed over time?

beautifully displayed at the Viking ship museum

to Antarctica and am now gearing up for the

The joy of a long-term relationship between an

in Oslo. A version of this bar is located on every

launch of the Nile and Mississippi vessels later

architect and owner is not necessarily greater

ship in the fleet, though the design changes to

this summer. From penguins to pyramids over

freedom, rather an understanding of one another

suit the conditions and the evolution of how

the course of six months is quite impressive!

and a shared direction. Myself, Torstein and

guests are serviced. When returning passengers

the Viking team are excited by our work – the

step aboard, we hope they recognise familiar

surprise and delight element – but I also rely on

elements that have been reinterpreted in new

Tor’s fundamental sense of what his guests want

and interesting ways.

to retain some perspective.

Have you noticed a change in guest expectations What is the main inspiration for the vessels

over the years?

you design?

While I have only been working in the marine

Hotels tend to take their design direction

sector for ten years and solely with Viking, it’s

from the surrounding location, but Viking’s

fascinating to watch how guests react to our

ships travel all over the world, so we opted to

spaces. It’s not so different to hotel design

create five fundamentals for the brand based

work; the fundamental basis of our industry is

on the Norwegian character of its founder:

to surprise and delight, and we must always meet

Norse heritage, residential Modernism, a love

the challenge between the familiar and the new.

and respect for nature, a sense of craft, and

For cruise ships, the gap between the comforts

exploration. Personally, I have also embarked

of a hotel and what a ship can offer is long gone

on a discovery of Norway and its culture – every

– the expectation now is that the style, service

time I visit, I learn something new with my

and space of a vessel should match that of a hotel

findings often becoming part of the brand DNA.

while providing the luxury of transportation.

“Our work with Viking is less about moving from project to project and more about the continuity of building a brand. Instead of being restrictive, every project has been a voyage of discovery.”

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Le Commandant Charcot PONANT Ponant expands its fleet with a new Polar Explorer, combining sustainable technology with elegant interiors

by Jean-Michel Wilmotte and Jean-Philippe Nuel.

Words: Lauren Ho • Photography: © Gilles Trillard (unless otherwise stated)

W

ith an air of luxury inconceivable to

gas (LNG) – currently the cleanest fuel on the

early 20th-century Antarctic explorers

market – as well as to feature ABB Azipods, an

like Sir Ernest Shackleton, French

advanced electric propulsion system designed

cruise operator Ponant has taken things to a

to manoeuvre through the toughest of sea

new level with the unveiling of Le Commandant

ice conditions. She is also the first to develop

Charcot. Named after French polar scientist

advanced ice-routing software with navigation

Jean-Baptiste Charcot, the icebreaking ship

software publisher Adrena, and, thanks to her

- the brand’s first Polar Explorer – is setting

innovative hull with a bulbless bow – capable of

new standards for sustainability at sea, using

sailing in 2.5m thick ice – is the first PC2 Polar

technology that promises minimal impact on

Class ship of her type.

the environment. “Ponant is at the forefront

From a guest perspective, the vessel brings

of environmental preservation in the cruise

a host of exclusive facilities to the Ponant fleet,

industry,” says Nicolas Dubreuil, Director of

including a sprawling spa with an indoor pool

Expeditions at Ponant Explorer and a Sedna

and a juice bar, a promenade deck with benches

Expert in the Polar Environment. “Our 13 small

heated by recycled energy, hot and cold outdoor

ships are fitted with state-of-the-art equipment

lagoon pools arranged around a giant fire pit

and technology; we recycle our water and waste,

– also with outdoor seating heated by recycled

and we undertake environmental and social

energy – and a cigar lounge. This is the first

impact studies ahead of our expedition cruises.”

time, too, that Alain Ducasse has partnered with

Indeed, Le Commandant Charcot specifically

a cruise brand to reveal Nuna, a fine dining

is kitted out with several pioneering firsts.

restaurant with a daily-changing menu that

In terms of technology, she is the first polar

features the chef’s most celebrated dishes.

explorer ship to be powered by liquified natural

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For the occasion, Ponant has also fine-tuned

VOYAGE ON WATER

© Nicolas Dubreuil

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The ship’s main lounge has been dressed with softly curving armchairs from Ligne Roset’s Soufflot collection

its understated and contemporary design style,

and dotted with custom-made furnishings in

this time sharing the task between French

intimate seating groups, book-filled shelves,

architects Jean-Michel Wilmotte and Jean-

and black-and-white photography of the polar

Philippe Nuel, who have been behind the look

regions. “I like understated and unexpected

and feel of the brand’s ships ever since the

materials that create a timeless range,”

launch of Le Boréal in 2010.

explains Wilmotte. “Comfort and elegance can

Still in keeping with Ponant’s elegant aesthetic, the duo worked together to create a

the softness of the armrest on a chair.”

cohesive scheme that takes its cues from the

For Nuel, there was an important point

beauty of the surrounding nature. “The show is

of difference from ships he has previously

going on outside, so we designed the interiors

designed for Ponant. “For the first time, I

in a way that directs the gaze to the great

was able to integrate the destination into the

outdoors,” declares Wimotte.

design approach,” he explains. “I have therefore

Responsible for several spaces from the

sought a warm atmosphere with raw and natural

soaring atrium – which features a 9m-high

materials alongside fluidity, which for me, is a

digital artwork by Miguel Chevalier – to the

maritime signature.” As such, the designer has

wellness area with its winter garden, Wilmotte

dressed the restaurants and main lounge with

reveals he opted for subtle materials and colours

softly curving Ligne Roset furniture upholstered

– like shades of light grey and sand – to create

in Rubelli and Kvadrat fabrics, accompanied

zones for contemplation. The Observatory Bar

by custom-made coffee tables with black ash

in particular is a spacious, light-filled area

bases, and grey marble table lamps designed by

layered with tactile, natural materials – from

Space Copenhagen for Gubi.

warm timber-panelled walls to a marble bar –

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be expressed in the touch of beautiful finishes or

The staterooms meanwhile are polished

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boltholes with curvilinear walls and ceilings,

with Ponant since its launch, the vessel

as well as concealed lighting that creates a

is characterised by a striking profile; its

soft glow over the tactile materials – from bed

responsive, gently faceted superstructure is

throws to leather in tones of dark grey and

a contrast to the angular shapes of the ships

oatmeal. Each encompasses a balcony dressed

that typically navigate the polar seas. “The

with Kettal furniture, while the Owner’s Suite

challenge with this radically new type of ship

has been elevated with luxury pieces – such as

was to design an elegant cruise liner based on

a black timber desk, a marble dining table and

a very specific hull in a way that brings out the

leather chairs – by European manufacturers

general aesthetics while integrating the many

such as Minotti and Poliform. Rounding out the

technical and operational elements,” explains

opulent look are nappa leather Bottega Veneta

Thibaut Tincelin, SDI’s CEO. “But above all we

accessories ranging from tissue boxes to trays.

wanted to retain a certain softness and harmony

“For me, this project is the expression of a

Not just a pretty face, Le Commandant Charcot

the ambition to elevate us with the presence

is also equipped with dry and wet laboratories

of art and the implementation of artisanal

and serves the scientific community as a

know-how,” explains Nuel. “It is a luxury in

platform for observation, research and analysis

harmony with its environment, where nothing

to study water, air, ice and biodiversity in

is gratuitous, where beauty has the strength of

extreme polar regions. The icing on the cake

a virginal simplicity and purity.”

then, for a truly remarkable ship that provides

The same can be said for the ship’s exterior.

Envisioned by Nantes-based Stirling Design International (SDI), which has worked

040

to the overall shape and forms of the ship.”

humble luxury that is not eye-catching but has

the perfect base to explore some of the world’s most remote destinations.

ON DECK Route: Polar Regions Maiden Voyage: September 2021 Owner / Operator: Ponant Naval Architecture: Stirling Design International Interior Design: Jean-Michel Wilmotte, Jean-Philippe Nuel Art Consultant: Agnes Karp Visual Identity: Landor, Fred & Farid Shipyard: Vard www.ponant.com

Fauteuil Soufflot – Studio Jean-Philippe Nuel / ©Gilles Trillard

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Celebrity Beyond CELEBRITY CRUISES Celebrity Cruises enhances its Edge-class series with a renewed focus on wellbeing, luxury and space.

Words: Kerry Spencer • Photography: © Ryan Wicks

B

uilt during the pandemic at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France, at a time when the global cruise industry was almost at a complete shut down, Celebrity

Beyond marks Celebrity Cruises’ most luxurious ship to-date.

As the largest in the fleet at 140,600 tonnes, it comes with 1,646 cabins, spacious outdoor decks, a casino, theatre, retail outlets and no less than 32 restaurants, bars and lounges.

While the 3,260-passenger vessel is a sibling to Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex, it is far from a carbon copy. The new iteration is longer with a sleeker profile, there’s an additional deck and more open-air spaces. Some venues have also been expanded; the Sunset Bar – which proved a popular spot on the other ships – is 180% larger, and there’s more choice when it comes to dining. Despite the alterations, Celebrity Beyond certainly celebrates the successful Edgeclass blueprint. The striking Magic Carpet, for example, is still the first feature that stands out when first setting eyes on the ship. The vibrant orange-hued venue – a moveable lounge that cantilevers over the side of the vessel – was one of the trailblazing innovations lauded by the cruise industry when it debuted on Celebrity Edge in 2018.

Another case in point is the F&B experience; much like Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex, there’s no single main dining room, as is tradition on most cruise ships. Instead, guests can dine at a series of venues designed to feel like intimate speciality restaurants. There’s Normandie, serving

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Designed by Jouin Manku, the ship’s Grand Plaza spans three decks and features a striking LED chandelier manufactured

by Kalmar

contemporary French fare; Tuscan, an Italian

travel as business steadily increases, and we see

eatery; and Cosmopolitan, where New American

Beyond leading the cruise industry into the next

cuisine combines with global influences.

era of luxury.”

With Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Cruises had

British designer Kelly Hoppen has played a

the difficult task of improving and developing

key role in the Edge class aesthetic. She explains

its winning formula. To achieve this, the line

that this time around, the creative team wanted

re-enlisted the talents of design industry

to redefine the art of luxury travel and take it

heavyweights, including Nate Berkus, Kelly

to a whole new level: “The process was a real

Hoppen, Tom Wright of WKK Architects and

meeting of incredible creative minds, who all

Paris-based studio Jouin Manku. With an extra

wanted to push boundaries and go bigger and

deck to play with, the end result is an ultra-chic

bolder without losing that all-important sense

ship of welcoming spaces that feels even more

of comfort and intimacy on board.”

luxurious than its siblings.

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Interior spaces that benefit from this bigger

For Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO

and bolder philosophy include the more

of Celebrity Cruises, the vision was to excel

spacious three-deck Grand Plaza, designed by

as a tastemaker in the luxury market. “With

Jouin Manku. This dazzling space is the beating

its innovative offerings that reach far beyond

heart of the ship, and features a striking LED

expectations from some of today’s most talented

chandelier, developed and manufactured by

designers, artists and creative minds, we believe

Kalmar, suspended over the bar. The ship’s

that Beyond speaks to the growing trend of

theatre is the largest in the fleet, while Fine

people seeking new luxury experiences that are

Cut can seat an extra 40 guests inside, though

personalised, effortless and meaningful,” she

the trade off here means no more outdoor seats

explains. “We are seeing a continued desire to

at the popular steak restaurant. There’s also the

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045

Lighting throughout both the staterooms and public spaces has been supplied by British manufacturer Chelsom

addition of two new venues, World Class Bar and Le

only have we made the bar in the Grand Plaza bigger,

Voyage restaurant, where New York-based French chef

but we added the new World Class Bar.”

Daniel Boulud is at the helm. The specialty dining

While interiors are light, airy and open, designed

restaurant is designed with softly sweeping booths in

to draw the outside in, exterior spaces are equally

a colour palette of blush and pale fawn.

compelling. Hoppen says that the pandemic influenced

“Daniel is our Global Culinary Ambassador and has

the decision to create more al fresco venues. “The

worked with us for a number of years, but this is the

outdoor spaces on Beyond are larger and more spacious

first time we’re doing a signature restaurant with

than the first two ships,” she confirms, alluding to the

him,” explains Brian Abel, Senior Vice President of

main Resort Deck and Rooftop Garden, both designed

Hotel Operations. “After launching Edge and Apex, we

in collaboration with WKK. Both are places to linger,

realised that we were missing an intimate, fine-dining

with sunken seating, float pools that cantilever over

experience,” he continues. “This part of the ship has

the ocean and the largest lap pool at sea, measuring

been lengthened, so we were able to create Le Voyage

25 metres. The Resort Deck is also home to some

– it’s the gem of our culinary collection.”

evocative art, such as the giant statue of a elephant

With 50 seats, a small private dining room, and

046

overlooking the pool.

plans to stagger reservations, Le Voyage is both

Additional outdoor space has also been given over

intimate and exclusive. World Class Bar meanwhile,

to the F&B venues. The Berkus-designed Sunset Bar

located one deck above and overlooking the Grand

for example is now spread across two levels, with

Plaza, is the place to go for handcrafted cocktails in a

a leafy Moroccan theme and shady cabana seating,

more convivial setting. Its addition was also the result

while The Retreat – the resort-within-a-resort

of learnings from the previous vessels. “What we’ve

concept for suite-class guests – is 40% larger.

found on Apex and Edge is that the Grand Plaza is so

However, Hoppen says it was important to strike the

busy that we needed more bars,” notes Abel. “So not

right balance between creating open spaces and the

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feeling of privacy. “As a designer, you always

out, weaving plantlife and a palette of natural

want to ensure that you are offering a choice, so

green tones and organic textures throughout.”

whether people want to enjoy a cocktail while

Accommodations range from the 243ft2 Edge

making new acquaintances or curl up and read

Stateroom with Infinite Veranda to the 739ft2

a book in peace, the options are all laid out for

Edge Villa, set across two levels with its own

them,” she explains. “The private booths on the

plunge pool. The Aqua Class Suites – a new

Resort Deck are perfect when guests are craving

category for this vessel – sees Celebrity Cruises

a bit of shade and escapism. Emphasising that

double down on its commitment to wellness.

feeling of the natural world and surroundings

Guests can enjoy on-demand programming,

was also important, so the outdoor spaces

eco-friendly bath products, yoga mats and in-

feature lots of organic materials, tropical

cabin fitness amenities, coupled with access

plants and textures, which are intertwined with

to The Retreat. Celebrity Beyond’s wellness

contemporary furniture and sleek lines for a

offering extends further, with Gwyneth Paltrow

chic, sophisticated look.”

and her brand debuting a special Goop at Sea

The approach continues in the accommodation.

voyage in the Mediterranean this Autumn.

“The cabins and suites are designed to imbue

The cruise line’s partnership with the likes of

a sense of complete calm and comfort,”

Hoppen and Berkus, and even Paltrow, might

Hoppen continues. “There’s a real lightness

sound impressive on paper, but what matters

and openness in all of the interior living spaces

is how this translates for passengers onboard

where we’ve maximised the natural light. Being

the ship. In reality, it means tactile spaces that

out at sea, guests want to feel at one with the

invite them to linger, and a feeling that is more

natural world – the sky, the water, the wildlife. I

aligned with a luxury boutique hotel on land,

also looked to blur the lines between indoors and

rather than a mega cruise ship.

ON DECK Route: Mediterranean, Caribbean Maiden Voyage: May 2022 Owner: Royal Caribbean Group Operator: Celebrity Cruises Interior Design: Nate Berkus, Kelly Hoppen, Tom Wright, Jouin Manku Shipyard: Chantiers de l’Atlantique www.celebritycruises.com

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Silver Dawn SILVERSEA CRUISES Silversea unveils the third vessel in its Muse class series, where a new spa and wellness programme elevate the cruise experience.

Words: John O’Ceallaigh • Photography: Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

C

onsummate cruisers who have had to endure two landbound years as a consequence of Covid may well find a reward for their patience awaits on Silver Dawn.

The third vessel in Silversea’s Muse class – following Silver Moon and Silver Muse – made it’s much-anticipated debut in April this year, with a host of new features designed to elevate the cruise experience.

Having announced plans for Silver Dawn back in 2018, Silversea awarded the construction of the vessel to its longstanding partner Fincantieri, with the ultimate aim being to affirm its position as a leader in ultra-luxury cruising. “In welcoming the beautiful Silver Dawn as the 10th ship in our fleet, we have reached a huge milestone on our mission to take our guests deep into the world in luxury,” explains Roberto Martinoli, President and CEO of Silversea.

“Silver Dawn represents an evolution of luxury cruise travel; she builds on the innovations of her sister ships, Silver Moon and Silver Muse, with Otium – our pioneering new wellness programme.”

Indeed, Otium is undoubtedly a highlight. Grounded in the philosophy and traditions of the ancient Roman lifestyle, the programme encourages balanced indulgence and pampering across treatments, rituals and bespoke experiences, some of which take place in the guest’s own suite. At the centre of the concept is the reimagined spa; located at the stern of Deck 6 and designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), it is arguably the most indulgent at sea.

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The spa interiors take cues from Ancient Roman baths, as referenced in the artworks

Key giveaways come through tactile touches such as

guests to make use of their tub and the on-hand blends of

walls tiled in buttery onyx, and in its relaxation room,

bespoke bath salts; toiletries are typically by Bulgari, though

where chaise lounges fan around a mound of ice studded

guests with sensitive skin can request amenities from pH-

with bottles of champagne. Nearby, gourmet refreshments

balanced medicinal specialist Sebamed, delivered by dapper

such as macarons and handmade chocolates are on hand

butlers in tailored Forint uniforms.

alongside fresh fruit and infused waters. Further facilities

In total, over 390 companies contributed to Silver

include a sauna, steam room, beauty salon and barbers,

Dawn’s construction, ranging from architects and designers

with an optimised layout making for a seamless journey.

to fit-out contractors and service providers. Playing a

Every detail has been curated for a sensorial experience,

leading role, Genoa-based design firm GEM was appointed

from the mood lighting to playlists, while the colour palette

to develop and deliver the interiors, building on the success

takes inspiration from the coast, with warm sandy tones

of its previous ventures with Silversea. Led by Managing

accompanying deep blues for a calming ambiance.

Director Lorenzo Mortola, the approach deliberately avoids

For weary passengers frayed by the effects of the pandemic,

overly ostentatious displays of luxury, instead opting for a

it’s an open invitation to enjoy unfettered pampering. For

sophisticated elegance. “Although our designs are for the

Otium’s lead designer, HBA London Associate Matteo Pace,

luxury market, they are not overstated,” explains Mortola.

it’s much more than that: “The concept is something entirely

“This is what makes Silversea so distinctive; we refer to our

new for Silversea, and it repositions how the company is

design approach as whispered luxury and it can often seem

perceived by a demanding clientele. For me, Otium is an

intangible. Guests really need to see it – to live it – to fully

oasis in the ocean.”

appreciate it.”

In the development of Otium, Barbara Muckermann,

Silversea stalwarts will find this newest launch has much

Silversea’s Chief Commercial Officer, took cues from Ancient

in common with her Muse-class siblings, but there are a few

Roman baths, which she describes as being “precursors to

other notable amendments. Some of those are a reflection

modern-day spas, designated places where enjoyment and

of modern times; in the wake of the pandemic, Silver Dawn

wellness were organically connected”. That heritage is

features an upgraded medical centre, dedicated isolation

referenced in the spa’s Roman-inspired artworks, while

suites and an HVAC ventilation system with improved

the Otium ethos is embedded more subtly into the vessel’s

filters. Passengers will also spot touchless hand-disinfection

offering as a whole.

units on board, developed by Bavaria’s Steripower. Other

Accommodating 596 guests, the ship’s 298 ocean-view suites now offer the Otium Sleeping Experience, a sleep

enhancements however are focused purely on improving guest enjoyment.

programme that is also heavily inflected with Italian

Also found on Silver Moon, Silver Dawn’s immersive

touches. A supplier to the Pope, Rome’s family-run Tebro

F&B concept S.A.L.T. encourages passengers to explore the

provides the beds, which are topped with Otium Soft Touch

culinary character of the destinations they visit. In practice,

mattresses made by Forli’s Dorelan and swaddled in crisp

that might mean making pasteis de nata pastries during

linens by 150-year-old Macherio-based manufacturer

a cookery class at a Lisbon food market or sampling the

Rivolta Carmignani.

constantly changing menus at S.A.L.T. Kitchen, which

The complementary Otium Bathing Experience encourages

showcases artful interpretations of local dishes. S.A.L.T.

051

VOYAGE ON WATER

052

Bar extends that approach into an experimental

features lies within. As Martinoli advises:

cocktail menu: when sailing to Santorini, guests

“Guests should look out for the 11 handmade

might order From the Flames as they approach

Lalique crystal panels. Each one is entirely

the caldera. Served in a distinctive copper pot,

bespoke and took approximately three months

the drink features oak-smoked vodka alongside

for Lalique’s skilled craftspeople to make. They

punchy ginger and lime. UK-based drinks

are works of art!”

consultant John Collingwood, who helped define

Other outlets include a seafood restaurant,

the bar concept, has grand ambitions: “I want

tapas bar, a Naples-inspired pizzeria and a grill.

guests to have the bartending equivalent of a

There’s also the Arts Café, where a cacophony

Michelin-starred chef making their signature

of colour and pattern is exaggerated by an

drink behind the bar.”

on-site programme of varied art exhibitions.

The adjacent S.A.L.T. Lab is a test kitchen

Calm is restored at Dolce Vita, a classic cocktail

hosting workshops and demos, while Kaiseki is

bar decorated in a soft palette of chocolate,

a minimalist Japanese restaurant where tabletop

gold and seafoam blue. In departure from its

bonsai-style greenery adds a splash of colour

predecessors, the oval-shaped bar aboard Silver

to otherwise pared-back interiors. The venue

Dawn has been transplanted from the sidelines

serves relaxed sushi lunches and becomes more

to the centre of this sprawling social hub. Lined

animated by evening, when a teppanyaki menu

with metallic panels that shimmer suggestively

is theatrically prepared on iron griddles. The

in the evening light, it’s one of the first things

most flamboyant experience is the signature

guests will see when they board.

French restaurant La Dame on Deck 8, where

After such a long hiatus, fans of cruising

window seats are in high demand, even though

won’t need to go far to toast Silversea’s sterling

one of the ship’s most delicate decorative

return to form.

ON DECK Route: Worldwide Maiden Voyage: April 2022 Owner: Royal Caribbean Group Operator: Silversea Cruises Interior Design: GEM, Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) Shipyard: Fincantieri www.silversea.com

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THE QUEEN’S AWARDS FOR ENTERPRISE: INTERNATIONAL TRADE 2022

VOYAGE ON WATER

Costa do Sal PORTUGAL Portuguese architect Ana Neiva designs a floating hotel for the Aveiro River, creating interiors that reflect the local landscape.

Words: J.R. Patterson Photography: Courtesy of Costa do Sal

A

new ship is now showing a more

associations worried the ship would dominate

secluded side to Portugal, thanks to

the tourism market. “Now the restaurant

a river-faring venture from Black &

owners understand that we are helping the

Blue Investimentos (BBI), who aspired to offer

surrounding economy by giving visitors a place

tourists a memorable experience in one of the

to stay.” Previously, there had only been one

country’s most historically important regions.

hotel in Costa Nova, which was considered a

Since launching in Autumn 2021, Costa do Sal has allowed an intimate view of the Aveiro River

location for day-trippers who came to see the famous multicoloured pinstripe houses.

– thought to be one of Europe’s best-preserved

Getting the ship to its current condition wasn’t

and biodiverse wetlands – taking guests on

easy either. Since its construction in 1906, Costa

weekly sailings from its home dock in Costa

do Sal has undergone several renovations, from

Nova to the small riverside town of Torreira. At

its original use as a passenger ferry in France

four hours, the journey is short yet grand, with

and Holland to its 1996 conversion to a Porto-

top-deck sightings of flamingos and fishermen

based river-cruiser travelling on the Douro.

in traditional moliceiro boats, sustained by a

Purchased by BBI in 2020, the 68m vessel was

seafood lunch. Passengers can book packages

renovated to blend with its new surroundings.

that combine the journey with a two-night stay

When designing the interiors, architect Ana

on board, or enjoy the vessel as a regular hotel,

Neiva wanted to reflect the Aveiro River’s

restaurant and bar when it is quayside.

bright, linear landscape. The challenge was to

“It was a complicated process to get the

retain the boat’s vintage feel while lessening

clearance to open,” says Graciela Nogueira,

its “dark, impregnated mood”. That process of

a board member for owners Black & Blue

lightening has left the narrow boat feeling airy

Investimentos, adding that local community

and spacious.

055

Up a wide staircase from the mid-ship reception area, the lounge opens out with large panel windows and scooping booth seats.

Staircase access to the external top deck was moved outside, promoting smooth access around the interior, while a promenade walkway wraps around the exterior of the lounge, allowing bidirectional access to the foredeck. “The main seating area was already socially-orientated,” says Neiva. “We simply retained the layout and redesigned it as a more comfortable and luxurious space.” There remains room for future alterations, with enough square footage for a dance floor or piano – the result, according to Neiva, of wanting a relaxing and cosy lounge that could also rise to a lively occasion.

With just 24 suites, Costa do Sal is small, though a further 16 cabins in the lowermost deck await refurbishment. As with any vessel of this size, the bedrooms were a challenge to update – an act of maximising space in a compact area.

“Guestrooms are private and exclusive realms, even if just for a few days,” says Neiva. One

056

VOYAGE ON WATER

of the greatest design challenges was storage,

immersive dining area that feels private, where

which had to fit around the European king-

the menu is made up of locally sourced seafood.

size bed. To solve the problem, Neiva produced

The exterior top deck, is, naturally, where

a set of drawers featuring luxurious leather

guests head to take in the striking landscape of

shelves, which serve the dual purpose of being

the Aveiro River, and creating a warm, flowing

a bedside table and concealing the ventilation

space was integral to the ship. The ovular

system. In bringing a sense of locale to the

Vondom chairs and loungers are uncushioned

interiors, each bedspread is complemented by

yet comfortable, and can be easily moved to

a handmade azulejo blanket, giving the rooms

enable guests to alter their view. There are also

individuality and traditional Portuguese flair.

coffee tables adjacent to a rooftop bar, which is

To further create a feeling of space, the suites

clad in artisanal Portuguese tiles.

are fitted with large windows to bring in plenty

Costa do Sal is Black & Blue’s first venture in

of natural daylight, which bounces off the soft

the tourism industry, but with their experience

colour palette. “Our goal was to open up the

in the green energy sector, Nogueira notes that

cabins visually, hence why we opted for a warm

there are plans to transform the boat into a

light-grey wallpaper and pale green leather

cleaner vehicle that runs on electrical power.

upholstery,” Neiva confirms.

“The environment of the Aveiro River is very

The restaurant meanwhile has retained much

important for us to consider,” she confirms.

of its original darker tone. “We left the wood

“We are the only boat here on the river, so we

finishing, imposing central buffet and ceiling

want to set a good example.”

configuration untouched, while introducing

Overall, Costa do Sal is a vessel that imparts

some gold details to underline that vintage

comfort, silence and simplicity. And as Neiva

identity,” Neiva explains. The result is an

concludes: “simple is not a synonym of basic”.

ON DECK Route: Costa Nova – Torreira Maiden Voyage: October 2021 Owner / Operator: Black & Blue Investimentos Interior Design: Ana Neiva www.costadosalhotel.com

057

SHIPPING FORECAST ON WATER

The Suite Spot A new concept in over-water accommodation, Jet Capsule unveils a floating hotel suite designed by Pierpaolo Lazzarini.

Spending the night in an over-water hotel is

a walkable external deck. Initial renderings

amongst the most sought-after experiences

demonstrate how the suites can be configured

for travellers to the tropics, yet finding a

for a variety of uses, from a floating daybed to

venue may prove challenging, with hospitality

a fully-functioning hotel suite complete with a

leaders often put-off such projects by the high

double bed, bathroom, desk, TV and fridge, as

cost of development and concerns around the

well as a jet ski dock and direct access to the

impact of building on the seabed. However, Jet

water via a stepladder.

Capsule – an Italian water mobility company –

In line with Jet Capsule’s sustainability

believes it may have come up with a solution.

focus, the fully autonomous pods are equipped

Designed by Pierpaolo Lazzarini, Pearlsuite

with ​​solar panels that generate clean, green

is a floating hotel room that offers existing

energy to power on-board air conditioning,

beachfront resorts the opportunity to expand

lighting and other appliances. The suites can

their key count at a low implementation cost.

also be fitted with an electric engine, enabling

The concept requires no infrastructure or use

them to self-position or cruise at a speed of

of land, can be assembled quickly, and has little

up to five knots.

impact on carbon footprint thanks to various sustainability initiatives.

With prices starting at US$50,000, developers and operators could add a single suite to their

Measuring seven metres in diameter, the

portfolio for a one-of-a-kind experience,

spherical pod comprises an enforced shell with

or anchor multiple units together to form a

a retractable windshield, connected to a sturdy

floating resort, taking over-water retreats to

circular hull offering 22m2 of interior space and

the next level.

In Good Spirits No self-respecting Caribbean voyage would be complete without a dash of rum, but P&O Cruises is taking extra measures with its spirited new partnership. The company has joined forces with Jersey-based brand The Tidal Rum to create the first rum to be made and distilled at sea.

Production will take place on board the forthcoming P&O Arvia, which is expected to set sail in December 2022. A purpose-designed distillery located in Anderson’s Bar will make the rum, which guests will be able to enjoy neat or as a cocktail ingredient. There are also plans for the spirit to be bottled on shore and rolled out across the wider P&O Cruises fleet.

Described as ‘an island-inspired rum that captures the sense of adventure and excitement that the ocean brings’, the new tipple will take its cues from The Tidal Rum’s distinctive taste, achieved through the sustainable sourcing of botanicals from the coastline of Jersey in the UK. Its signature smoothness however comes from a careful blend of Caribbean cask-aged rums from Trinidad, Jamaica, Barbados and the Dominican Republic. “With our new venture, we wanted to bring together the finest rums of the Caribbean with the fresh

Regal Retreat

notes of coastal botanicals from the shores of Britain’s islands,” explains co-founder Harry Coulthard.

In-house blends are already a well-established trend on dry land: luxury London hotel The Connaught

Accor diversifies its MGallery portfolio with a floating resort in Dubai’s Port Rashid.

produces its own signature gin, while landmark properties from Raffles Singapore to Marriott Puerto

From The Ritz-Carlton with its new yacht collection to Virgin with

Vallarta Resort & Spa work with craft distillers to

its playful ocean liners, traditional hotel groups are venturing into

produce their own-label drinks brands.

the cruise market at a rate of knots. The latest to enter the fray is Accor, having recently taken over operations of a floating hotel, now permanently docked in Dubai’s Port Rashid. The only of its kind in the city, the QE2 – or Queen Elizabeth 2 to give its official title – will undergo a series of upgrades prior to joining the MGallery portfolio.

Once the renovations are complete, the ship will feature 447 rooms and nine F&B outlets – the concepts for which are currently being developed

by Meraki & Modus. There will also be a swimming pool, gym, six retail outlets, ten meeting rooms and 5,620m2 of space for outdoor events.

“This is a great opportunity for Accor to expand its footprint in the UAE with the introduction of a unique project that brings diversity to the portfolio while expanding the MGallery brand’s presence in the city,” says Mark Willis, CEO for the Middle East, Africa, India and Turkey at Accor. “Not only are we in charge of the only floating hotel in Dubai, but we are also contributing to the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, with the aim of mapping out the path for a sustainable urban development while increasing the city’s appeal as a global destination.”

Saeed Al-Bannai, CEO of PCFC Investments – the private equity firm with which Accor is collaborating – adds: “The Queen Elizabeth as we know her has made history and we are confident that Accor will keep her legacy alive, ensuring that her strong heritage and notoriety creates a destination in itself.”

060

SHIPPING FORECAST ON WATER

Sail the Night Away Setting sail down the Thames later this year, the UK’s first CO2-neutral venue-on-water prepares to shake up London’s events scene.

When it comes to events, gone are the days of

working in partnership with luxury catering

stuffy ballrooms and tired exhibition halls –

company Last Supper.

organisers are on the lookout for somewhere

With sustainability at its core, the vessel is

more impressive to host their guests. And what’s

equipped with the latest marine technology; it is

more impressive than a CO2-neutral events space

powered by two independent Samsung Lithium

sailing up and down the River Thames?

battery packs charged by a green power shore

Developed in collaboration with Smart Group,

connection and mounted solar panels, and

Oceandiva London is a 86m x 17m superyacht

comes equipped with an advanced airflow, heat

boasting 2,625m2 of events spaces spread across

recovery and cooling system regulated by the

three decks. Set to launch in Autumn 2022,

temperature of the Thames, resulting in a 60%

the vessel is designed for flexibility, with an

power reduction.

architectural and interior design scheme that

“We are excited to bring a spectacular and

fits a variety of event formats. It will serve

stylish new events venue to London, one that

five embarkation points across the city, and

raises the bar for luxury venues on the Thames

accommodates up to 1,500 guests standing and

in terms of its quality and sustainability

600 seated by way of receptions, gala dinners,

credentials,” says Greg Lawson, CEO of Smart

weddings and product launches, with areas

Group. “Oceandiva London will provide an entirely

indoors and out on deck, the latter offering views

unique alternative for discerning delegates and

of the capital’s iconic landmarks. A flythrough of

private party organisers. Our unique position as

the venue reveals a dance floor, stage and bar,

leaders in venue ownership, event management

and attendees won’t go hungry – cuisine will

and catering services make Smart Group the ideal

be provided by Smart Group’s Moving Venue,

operators of Oceandiva London.”

061

SHIPPING FORECAST ON WATER

Cleaner Cruising Norwegian shipping group Ulstein presents a new concept that could make zero emission cruise operations a reality.

With the travel industry under increasing

To demonstrate the feasibility of the concept,

pressure to be cleaner and greener, the marine

Ulstein has also developed the Ulstein Sif, a 100m

sector has been working to develop solutions

long, 160 POB capacity, zero emission expedition

that are altogether better for the environment.

vessel, which will run on next-generation

Though there’s been progress in the way of

batteries, utilising Thor to recharge while at sea.

design, build and operations, Ulstein believe

“We have the goals, ambition and environmental

there’s a missing piece of the puzzle when it

imperative to switch to zero emission operations,

comes to hitting sustainability targets. As such,

but, until now, we haven’t had the solution,”

the forward-thinking shipbuilder has unveiled a

says Cathrine Kristiseter Marti, CEO of Ulstein.

new concept that is capable of making the vision

“We believe Thor might be the answer we’ve been

of zero emission cruise operations a reality.

looking for – the concept is essentially a floating,

Named Ulstein Thor, the 149m vessel uses a Thorium Molten Salt Reactor (MSR) to generate

multi-purpose power station that will enable a new battery revolution.”

clean, safe electricity – ultimately enabling it to

She continues: “Expedition cruise ships

act as a mobile charging station for a new breed

are entering into increasingly remote and

of battery-driven cruise liners. The concept was

environmentally fragile areas, and at the same

announced during a special showcase at Seatrade

time the industry faces growing pressure from

Cruise Global, during which Ulstein explained

stakeholders to preserve nature and reduce

the 3Rs of Replenishment, Research and Rescue.

its impact. Thor enables the replenishment of

They also revealed that Thor’s charging capacity

energy and supplies on site, while also offering

has been scaled to satisfy the power needs of

the technology to facilitate rescue missions and

four expedition cruise ships simultaneously. The

conduct research tasks. It is, in effect, a crucial

vessel itself would never need to refuel; as such,

piece of infrastructure to support sustainable and

it is intended to provide a blueprint for entirely

safer operations.”

self-sufficient vessels of the future.

Both Thor and Sif feature Ulstein’s X-Bow design, created for greater operability, comfort and fuel efficiency. Thor is kitted out with laboratories and a lecture lounge for research as well as helicopter pads and firefighting equipment for rescues, while Sif can host up to 80 passengers and 80 crew, offering zero emission journeys to remote areas. Øyvind G. Kamsvåg, Chief Designer at Ulstein, comments: “With Thor and Sif we have two concepts that showcase a cleaner, safer and more sustainable option for owners and operators. They demonstrate what is possible when approaching challenges from a new direction.”

Speaking about the suitability of Thorium MSRs as an energy source for maritime applications, Jan Emblemsvåg, Professor at Norwegian University of Science & Technology, an expert in the field of nuclear power generation, notes: “MSRs have enormous potential for enabling clean shipping.

There is so much uncertainty over future fuels, but here we have an abundant energy source that, with the right approach, can be safe, much more efficient, cheaper, with a smaller environmental footprint than any existing alternative. From my perspective I see this as the most viable, and potentially the only credible solution for a zero emissions fleet that can operate under commercial terms and cost levels. The Thor concept is exactly the kind of innovation we need for sustainable success at sea.”

062

|

A

fter the cancellations and restrictions of

design and they are well positioned to take on

the last two years, people are seizing the

this opportunity.

day and booking trips at a record pace.

Prima from Norwegian Cruise Lines, for

In fact, a number of booking platforms expect

example, is scheduled to be delivered this

2022 to be the strongest year ever for travel. As

summer. The staterooms are larger than many

such, operators have to differentiate themselves

cruise guests have come to expect and offer a

through superior service and exceptional design

sense of luxury akin to a hotel room. We have

if they want to seize this opportunity.

no doubt that Prima’s first passengers will see

What we are seeing across the hospitality

their high expectations exceeded, whether they

industry is that today’s travellers are looking

have had their trip booked for months or if are

for bigger and better experiences. Personal

wrapped up in the flurry of revenge travel.

connections and the fundamentals of hospitality

Like Prima, every ship has grand spaces that

will be a major part of helping guests feel

impress in an instant, but there’s something

seen, heard and appreciated. Beyond service,

to be said for the smaller luxuries – elements

architecture and interior design have the power

that may not stand out at first but combine to

to turn a standard vacation into a transformative

make a difference. Details like lighting, music,

Revenge Travel at Sea With cruise bookings on the rise, operators must differentiate through design and service, as Yohandel Ruiz, Founding Partner of Studio Dado explains.

064

experience. Our clients are focusing on both

fabrics and even scent come together to create a

service and design to meet these expectations.

mood that is different in every space. Guests may

Oceania Cruises’ Vista is due for its maiden voyage next year and serves as just one example

notice these individual elements, but the whole is greater than each component on its own.

of how cruise lines are rising to the occasion. The

When we design, we also think about aspects

rooms are designed to feel spacious thanks to our

that aren’t necessarily noticed by guests, but

clever use of light, texture and colour. Similarly,

are crucial to the smooth operation of the ship

the bathrooms are generous with rainfall showers

– designing layouts for efficient service in the

and large vanities; the suites feel much more

restaurant for example, or selecting finishes and

like luxury apartments than staterooms. The

fittings that require little maintenance. These

signature areas of Vista are distinct from one

are some of the elements that keep our projects

another and from anything else on the water.

relevant for years to come and allow our clients to

Some are grand, others are more intimate, but

continue offering newer and better experiences.

the common thread is the attention to detail –

The last two years have shown us that people

encompassing everything from the fabrics and

want to travel more and they want to do it in

finishes to the artwork – ensuring the ship offers

style. They are booking trips to see and do things

a one-of-a-kind experience.

they have never experienced before. Any cruise

We have also worked on a number of other

brand that can play a role in such adventures

projects over the last couple of years before

will be poised to stay relevant now and well into

anyone could have foreseen the current season

the future. With the speed that travellers are

of highly charged revenge travel. Luckily, we

booking once-in-a-lifetime vacations, it’s clear

always work with our clients to up the ante on

that revenge travel is already here. Are you ready?

CLOVER SIDE CHAIR Extra Virgin, Scarlet Lady Interior Design: Volume Creative Photo Credit: Paul Raftery

making places for everyone_ cruise

@tableplacechairs / +44 (0)330 1222 117 tableplacechairs.com

EVENTS

Dee Cooper (far left), My Nguyen (left), Sascha Lang (top) and Andy Yuill (above) are amongst the speakers at Cruise Conversations Live

Cruise Ship Interiors Expo America 7-8 June 2022 MIAMI

Cruise Ship Interiors Expo America will return

SMC Design and Graeme Hyde, Business

to Miami Beach Convention Center in June,

Development Manager at Lloyd’s Register, talk

with the exhibition once again joined by Cruise

through the regulations required for IMO and

Conversations Live, a two-day conference

SOLAS accreditation.

programme curated specially for the cruise ship interiors design community.

The sessions will give life to the topics prevalent

across

the

industry,

and the workshops. A keynote session entitled

with

Designing to Last will look beyond the current

refurbishment opportunities and challenges in

parameters of a vessel’s dry-dock programme

the supply chain both under the spotlight. This

and ask, what if cruise ship interiors were

year will also see the introduction of workshops

designed to last beyond a vessel’s next

taking place across the show floor, offering

refurbishment window? Speakers include My

practical advice and exploring case studies for

Nguyen, Director of Interior Design at Holland

experienced and new-to-cruise suppliers.

America Group; Dee Cooper, Senior Vice

Day one of the conference begins with a

President of Design & Customer Experience

keynote featuring leaders from three major

at Virgin Voyages; and Petra Ryberg, Principal

cruise lines, with George Scammell of Holland

Designer and Owner at Studio Berg+.

America Group, Sascha Lang of Royal Caribbean,

Cruise Ship Interiors Expo America will also

and Thomas Westergaard of Hurtigruten

feature the products and services from over 300

Expeditions set to explore topics ranging from

exhibitors, while social events across the two

sustainability and small ships to innovative

days provide ample opportunity for networking.

materials. An interactive workshop meanwhile will see Andy Yuill, Managing Director at

066

Day two of the event will take a sustainability focus, reflected in both Cruise Conversations

To register for tickets visit:

www.cruiseshipinteriors-expo.com

EVENTS

Why Sustainable? Why Now? Following the launch of the Sustainable Design Summit, the event’s organisers explain the importance of knowledge sharing and collaboration.

T

he first step to being able to make a

Tourism Council (WTTC) laid out an ambitious

meet this objective, designers and outfitters will

business case for sustainable design is to

roadmap for net zero, which included sustainable

need to collaborate with the entire supply chain

understand the drivers shaping the global

design practices for hotels, weight reduction

in order to identify those who are championing

shift towards a more environmentally-friendly

through retrofitting for aircraft, and lighting

sustainable practices, learning from them to

future. In the past five years, the ongoing climate

upgrades for cruise ships. The pressure is on

improve the overall efficiency of their own

crisis has had significant impact on the travel

for all hospitality designers and developers to

manufacturing processes.

and hospitality sector, leading owners, operators

educate their teams, explore different approaches

Many hospitality suppliers have already

and designers to balance aesthetics and guest

and put their learnings into practice, while still

taken steps to improve their credentials. Carpet

experience with net zero targets and ROI.

meeting the expectations of the client and guest.

manufacturer Dansk Wilton has introduced

SAVVY CONSUMERS

The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals

Cradle-to-Cradle Products Innovation Institute

directly target the built environment through a

practices into its collection. Agua Fabrics

Guests have traditionally evaluated hospitality

number of parameters: decent work and economic

has launched VerdEco, which is made from

design based on their experience, whether

growth; industry, innovation and infrastructure;

100% recycled material and uses no water

through the comfort of the bed or the quality of

sustainable cities and communities; responsible

in production. And Makinen has appointed a

food served in the restaurant. Now, they are more

consumption and production. Paris Agreement

sustainability steering group to guide it through

curious about what goes on behind the scenes,

signatory the European Union earmarked the

marine interior projects.

and are increasingly likely to factor sustainability

circular economy as key to meeting goals in its

credentials into their decision-making. Due to

updated 2020 Circular Economy Action Plan,

KNOWLEDGE SHARING & COLLABORATION

global initiatives designed to educate consumers

promising to deliver reporting and certification

There is much opportunity within the hotel,

on materials, waste reduction and even supply

systems, industry collaboration through

cruise ship and aircraft sectors for knowledge to

chain, consumers are increasingly savvy about

training, and the promotion of digital and green

be shared, which is why Elite Exhibitions – the

sustainability. Globally, it ranks as one of the

technologies. With two of the world’s largest

organiser of Cruise Ship Interiors Expo – has

most important factors when making a purchase

shipbuilding companies located in Europe,

launched the Sustainable Design Summit. Taking

for around 60% of people, a figure that rises to

Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France and Damen

place in London on 29 November, the summit

75% when applied to millennials. And notably,

in the Netherlands – both of whom have their

will offer attendees the opportunity to exchange

around 50% of all travellers say they are willing

own corporate sustainability mandate – cruise

ideas about making sustainable design choices

to pay more for environmentally responsible

ship construction looks set to develop in line with

in a collaborative environment, with talks and

products, which can be considered when

the UN’s goals.

roundtable discussions that encourage cross-

factoring in the higher costs associated with being sustainable.

sector insight and learning. The event will also feature a product showcase featuring innovative

The WTTC has identified Scope 3 emissions –

sustainable materials, essentially bringing the

those generated through the supply chain and

ideas discussed to life and providing a platform

At COP26, the United Nations Environment

generally underreported – as a key area for the

for sustainable design in the hotel, cruise and

Programme (UNEP) and the World Travel &

cruise industry to target reduction. In order to

aircraft cabin sectors.

REGULATIONS

068

SUPPORTED BY SUPPLIERS

EVENTS

© Downtown Photo

F&B @ Sea 2-3 May 2023 MIAMI

With innovative food and beverage concepts

and supply chain. “Synergies between cruise

a key element of any new cruise ship, there’s

lines and destination stakeholders to increase

an increasing need for events that cater to the

local sourcing present immense potential, and

next generation of onboard dining and imbibing

this will be an opportunity to share the latest

experiences. As such, Seatrade Cruise Global

infusions and innovations,” comments Michele

has announced the launch of F&B @ Sea, a

Paige, President of FCCA. “We look forward to

two-day event dedicated to those creating the

our partners in the Caribbean and Latin America

restaurants, bars and lounges of the future.

having the chance to display their unique

“Extensive research by the Seatrade Cruise team identified the desire and demand for

070

products, and we will export the lessons learned to all of our partners.”

culinary-focused programming within the cruise

Taking place from 2-3 May 2023 at a venue

community,” says Mary Bond, Group Director

close to Miami Beach Convention Center – where

at Seatrade Cruise. “F&B @ Sea aims to close

Seatrade Cruise Global will run simultaneously

the gap with vendor showcases, networking,

– the event will feature branded activations,

content and immersive demonstrations while

culinary influencers, featured tastings, chef

bringing together cruise line executives and

cook-offs and mixologists. “We’re bringing

suppliers to meet, learn and discuss challenges,

a unique buying and selling experience to

opportunities and expand horizons.”

an intimate event space,” concludes Richard

Supported by Cruise Lines International

Regan, Director of Partner Relations at CLIA.

Association (CLIA) and Florida-Caribbean

“Offering an experience that is educational,

Cruise Association (FCCA), the curated event will

inspirational and experiential, this event will

focus on key trends including elevated eateries,

really be a melting pot of opportunities for our

sustainability, handcrafted cocktails, technology

community for years to come.”

STEP INTO THE…

The UK’s only dedicated lighting specification exhibition

22 & 23 November 2022 • Business Design Centre • Islington • London

www.lightexpo.london

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON LAND

Cadillac Concepts

As fully autonomous mobility gathers pace, the opportunity for passengers to relinquish the responsibility of vehicle control and make better use of their time while travelling

General Motors presents the future of mobility with new concepts designed to elevate the passenger experience.

is in sight. With that in mind, car-makers are increasingly looking to develop models that are much more than a means of getting from A to B. For General Motors, technological advancements and an ambition to elevate the passenger experience has resulted in the Cadillac Halo Concept Portfolio, a collection of vehicles that provide effortless travel within spaces that are suitable for both socialising and solace.

The Personal Space model is a single-seat vertical take-off

and landing concept capable of transporting the passenger

to accommodate living quarters. In a teaser presented at CES

above the congestion of ground traffic, while Inner Space

earlier this year, the initial renderings show a double bed,

is an autonomous sports car with ergonomically designed

lounge and kitchen, with interiors that look more like a hotel

seats facing a panoramic digital display offering various

room than a vehicle.

entertainment functions. For groups of up to six passengers,

“Electrification and autonomous driving will fundamentally

Social Space is a self-driving robotaxi billed as a mobile living

change the role of vehicles and the experiences customers

room; designed as a sanctuary in which to relax and socialise,

have with them,” comments Bryan Nesbitt, Executive

it features a spacious cabin kitted out with inward-facing

Director of Global Advanced Design and Global Architecture

leather seats beneath an expansive glass roof.

Studio at General Motors. “We’re exploring where that will

In addition to the concepts already unveiled, General

go with these innovative concepts, envisioning mobility as

Motors has hinted at a fourth model, Open Space, which is

an ally of wellness and giving customers the ultimate luxury

expected to be comparable to a campervan and large enough

of more personal time.”

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON LAND

Driven By Design Bentley Motors is set to bring its brand DNA to real estate with its first branded residences.

074

The evolution of the typical car into a living

cream leather and walnut panelling – features

space is well documented in these pages. There’s

throughout, complemented by petrol blue and

a Rolls-Royce with a built-in champagne bar,

charcoal accents. In the apartments, motor-

and a Renault 4L that transforms into a suite.

inspired artworks hang above the bed while

Last issue we revealed that Porsche Design –

highly polished veneer tables are reminiscent of

an offshoot of the automobile company – is

the car’s crafted dashboards.

bringing its signature aesthetic to the hotel

Communal amenities include a restaurant and

sector, and now, Bentley Motors has announced

whisky bar as well as a cinema and gaming room,

the expansion of its business too, with branded

each featuring subtle nods to the Bentley brand

residences set to land in Miami.

through its design and accessories. Bentley has

Developed in partnership with Dezer

made sure to cater to luxury car owners too,

Development – whose real estate portfolio

providing all residents with their own multi-car

includes ventures with Porsche and Armani

garage accessed via a patented vehicle elevator.

Casa – Bentley Residences will house more than

“The modern and progressive brand identity

200 luxury apartments, each featuring a private

of Bentley Residences is at work in both the

balcony, pool and sauna. Designed by Sieger

tower’s interior and exterior spaces, rooted in

Suarez Architects, the 60-storey cylindrical

authenticity, sustainability and innovation,”

tower will debut on Sunny Isles Beach in 2026.

explains Adrian Hallmark, Chairman and CEO of

Inside, the aesthetic is characterised by the

Bentley Motors. “We’ve partnered with Dezer to

high-quality craftsmanship that has defined

create a living experience that expresses the very

the Bentley marque for over a century. A

philosophy of the Bentley brand and stays true to

palette of signature hues and textures – think

our vision of inspiring extraordinary journeys.”

WHERE CRUISE DESIGN COMES TO LIFE 250 EXHIBITORS | INSPIRING CONFERENCE PROGRAMME | UNRIVALLED NETWORKING OPPORTUNITES

SAVE THE DATE 30 NOVEMBER – 1 DECEMBER | EXCEL LONDON

www.cruiseshipinteriors-europe.com SUPPORTING BRANDS

Retro Meets the Future Continental reimagines a VW camper van to demonstrate the transportation of tomorrow.

With one eye on the past and another on the

with innovative surface solutions crafted from

future, German automotive manufacturer

renewable and reclaimed materials. Some can

Continental has launched AMBIENC3 – an

generate heat in seconds, while others are

autonomous vehicle that offers zones for working

characterised by special attributes like stain and

and relaxing.

abrasion resistance, and even self-healing in

Underpinned by the notion that cars are now

the event of damage. The vehicle also features

the ‘third space’ in people’s lives – after home

a speaker-less sound system, intelligent glass

and the workplace – the vehicle responds to the

control, a 360-degree camera for enhanced road

need for interiors to be multi-purpose as well

safety and a photovoltaic charger on the roof for

as more visually appealing and conducive to a

sustainable energy generation. Plus, passengers

passenger’s wellbeing. As such, Continental

can breathe freely thanks to low-emission, low-

has created a new concept using innovative

polluting standards.

technologies and sustainable materials to provide

“With AMBIENC3, we are connecting a globally

a mood-lifting experience through light, sound

renowned automotive icon with new, intriguing

and touch.

surfaces and future-focused technologies, whose

Natural wood, soft colourways and a gently

attributes are distinguished through colour,

flowing form give AMBIENC3 an organic feel,

design and material,” says Ralf Imbery, Global

and fiddly buttons and switches have been

Director of Innovation for Transformation &

intentionally removed for a cleaner, more

Design at Continental. “We are demonstrating

calming aesthetic. And though the vehicle’s shell

our knowledge of sustainability, design,

is based on the classic Volkswagen campervan –

functionality, ‘third space’ development and

highlighting the potential for timeworn models

customer centricity – it sees us bringing together

to be upcycled – the interior is brimming

key drivers for the future of the mobile interior.”

© Stantien

076

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON LAND

Into the Metaverse Hyundai Motor shares its vision of a new metamobility concept that aims to affect change in the real world.

The metaverse has piqued the interest of retail,

entertainment space or meeting room. The robots

entertainment and hospitality companies in

act as a medium between virtual spaces and the

recent months and now the automobile sector is

real world, enabling users to make changes in the

making a move into the digital realm too, looking

metaverse to be reflected in reality.

to augmented and virtual reality to explore the future of mobility.

“The idea behind metamobility is that space, time and distance will all become irrelevant.

Under the theme Expanding Human Reach,

By connecting robots to the metaverse, we will

Hyundai Motor has shared its vision for a

be able to move freely between the real world

pioneering metamobility concept, going beyond

and virtual reality,” explains Chang Song,

physical movements through robotics and the

Hyundai Motor Group President and Head of

metaverse to affect change in the real world.

Transportation-as-a-Service. “Going one step

The venture forms part of the Seoul-based car

further from the immersive ‘be there’ proxy

maker’s ambition to become a smart mobility

experience that the metaverse provides, robots

solution provider, having sharpened its focus

will become an extension of our own physical

on advanced robotics with the aim of enhancing

senses, allowing us to reshape and enrich our

people’s lives. Hyundai sees robotics and

daily lives with metamobility.”

mobility as complementary, and as such has

Other applications for the technology include

developed a Mobility of Things (MoT) ecosystem

automated logistics, reconfigurable interior

wherein traditionally inanimate things – from

space and public transportation with individual

small objects to community spaces – will gain

compartments for social distancing and last mile

mobility using robotics technologies. This could

mobility, which align with Hyundai’s belief that

result in a hotel’s service trolley making its

robots are more than just machines, andwill

own way from the guestroom to the lobby for

soon become useful, trusted companions in our

example, or a vehicle being transformed into an

everyday lives.

077

1.

Travel 2040 Lexus enlists students at London’s Royal College of Art to explore the future of luxury mobility.

Cars that change colour with the seasons, personalised VTOLs that dock onto buildings, and tessellating pods that combine to form an urban swarm are just some of the concepts envisioned by students at London’s Royal College of Art when asked to imagine the future of luxury mobility.

Lexus – a division of Japanese automaker Toyota – tasked post-graduates at the university’s Intelligent Mobility Design Centre to explore new vehicle architectures in a changing world, and to reimagine the role the Lexus brand might play in Europe’s mobility landscape beyond the next two decades, whether on land or in the sky. The six-month programme included mentoring and assessment sessions with Lexus design studio ED2, culminating in a competiton in which six projects were shortlisted, before Richard Newman’s Alto was selected as the eventual winner.

“All of the designers impressed us with their thinking, their ideation and the breadth of their imagination,” explains Lance Scott, Senior Manager at ED2. “What they produced is not just fantasy, but based on factual study of what premium might mean in a future society.”

078

2.

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON LAND

3.

4.

5.

6.

1. LEXUS NEKO

Designed by Jan Niehues, Lexus Neko is a micromobility concept for on-demand travel. Inspired by nature, it has an insect-like exoskeleton and is battery-powered with sensor cameras and an intelligent recording device. It can operate in two modes: one for conventional driving, the other a sharing mode in which occupants can view scenery recorded on previous journeys.

2. LEXUS URBAN SWARM

Urban Swarm brings a sense of luxury to an everyday urban mobility experience according to its designer Maxime Gauthier. The modular concept provides the flexibility and convenience of micro-mobility with the efficiency of mass transportation systems through its tessellation feature in which it can link with other pods.

3. LEXUS #UNITS

In the context of transportation as a future social space, Lexus #Units by Zhenyu Kong seeks to foster connections between individuals and groups. On arrival at a destination – such as a party, concert or conference – the vehicle can link virtually to other vehicles for social interaction. Interiors can also be personalised using blockchain technology, so NFT artworks can be brought along on any journey.

4. ALTO

The winning concept by Richard Newman is a vertical take-off and landing vehicle that appears as a cross between a spaceship and a hot-air balloon. With a distinctive architectural form, it features unified cladding to enable docking onto the side of buildings.

5. 2040 LEXUS VISION IN-SEASON

Bangning An’s vision for the future of mobility is based around ichi-go ichi-e, a Japanese phrase that honours the idea of treasuring everyday moments. The concept is in sync with the seasons, meaning that both the interior and exterior can change colour, light intensity and temperature thanks to intelligent controls that sense their surroundings.

6. CRUCIBLE

Designed by Benjamin Miller, Crucible is a hydrogen-fuelled vehicle that divides itself to adapt to different uses. The luxury cabin can be separated from the mobility technology, meaning that it can be used as a personal space in a variety of scenarios for work and relaxation, even indoors.

079

A Culinary Journey Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has been gradually elevating its offer over the years, adding three new suites in 2018, and a further three in 2020. Now the legendary train is reinventing its cuisine thanks to a partnership with French chef Jean Imbert, who recently took over from Alain Ducasse at Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris.

Blending the train’s gastronomic heritage with Imbert’s passion for seasonal produce, the new venture spans each of the culinary experiences on board, from breakfast, lunch and dinner to cabin service, afternoon tea and canapés served during aperitivo hour. Tapping into his existing relationships with local farmers and producers while forging new connections with specialist artisans along the route, Imbert’s plans involve utilising quality ingredients to create original menus that change with both the season and location.

Alongside the cuisine, the chef has helped reimagine the atmosphere and visual identity of the three 1920s restaurant cars – L’Oriental, Etoile Du Nord and Côte d’Azur – to reflect his vision whilst maintaining the essence of the Golden Age of Travel. Mood lighting casts a warm glow across tables laid with crisp white cloths and silver cutlery, while French porcelain dinnerware and new menu designs reflect the distinct colour

Train Travel for All

palette and history of each carriage.

“To be written into the story of this legendary train is a childhood dream come true,” says Imbert. “I genuinely feel as though the stars have aligned for me to have this once-in-

Having revolutionised air travel for passengers with reduced mobility, London-

a-lifetime opportunity, and I am looking forward to sharing

based consultancy PriestmanGoode has turned its attention to the tracks,

my deep passion for the train through food.”

designing fully accessible interiors for Via Rail Canada’s new Corridor fleet.

In line with the rail service’s goal to deliver an enhanced passenger experience, the new interiors focus on accessibility, comfort and personal space, with the carriages configured to be barrier-free for all thanks to onboard wheelchair lifts, large accessible washrooms and braille signage.

Developed specifically for this fleet, the seating in both business and economy class are fitted with headrests, armrests and coat hooks, and offer convenient access to tables and charging points. A new feature for business class sees pods bordered by raised partitions for privacy to allow passengers to work efficiently onboard.

The cabin environment is characterised by an elegant colour palette in varying shades of grey, accompanied by subtle touches of the home nation; decorative foils depict the local landscape in graphical form for example, while Canadian maple is used on surfaces. Particular attention was paid to the selection of durable materials, especially in high-touch areas to withstand wear-and-tear and the variation in climatic conditions, contributing to VIA Rail’s sustainability commitment.

“The new interiors, as well as the livery and nose design, acknowledge the unique role that transport design can play; transport is fundamental to how we experience our environment, both as locals and as tourists,” explains a reputation for listening to passengers and building their requirements into their service proposition. This focus on people matches our own dedication to human-centric design in all of our projects.”

080

© Boby Allin

Son Tran, Design Director at PriestmanGoode. “Via Rail Canada has earned

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON LAND

Take the Midnight Train Travel and hospitality experts join forces to develop a network of hotels on rails.

‘Travel Better’ is a mindset that has had greater

natural wines, which can be enjoyed at the table or

prominence in recent times, encouraging people to

delivered to the room.

consider the social and environmental impact of their

In developing the venture, Aumont and Payet have

trips and make choices that are better for the planet.

partnered with a number of specialists to advise on

The phrase also serves as the motivation for Adrien

everything from the route to design to operations. Odile

Aumont and Romain Payet, co-founders of Midnight

Fagot brings experience from SNCF and Eurostar, while

Train, who are seeking to bring a new travel experience

Franck Gervais will tap into his former roles at Thalys

to the tracks.

and Accor to combine transportation with hospitality.

Led by the belief that the short-haul flight is falling

Also on the advisory board is Cyril Aouizerate, founder

out of favour, the entrepreneurs are in the process of

of Mama Shelter and Mob Hotel, who states that the

developing a network of rail routes across Europe,

concept aligns with his fascination for new paradigms

with the aim of providing more choice for sustainable

in sustainable travel.

travel. “The aviation sector is setting records for carbon

Departing from its hub in Paris, the Midnight Train

emissions and Midnight Trains was born from this

will travel to European destinations not served by the

observation,” say the duo. “It’s time to choose a more

high-speed network. Edinburgh, Copenhagen, Berlin

comfortable, efficient and sustainable alternative.”

and Hamburg are all prospective calling points, as are

Set to launch in 2024, the train – billed as a hotel on

Porto, Florence, Venice and Madrid. “We believe that

rails – is an overnight sleeper on which all rooms are

the journey is as important as the destination, and that

private. There’s singles, doubles and four-bed family

every moment is precious,” conclude Aumont and Payet.

rooms, each with quality fixtures and fittings and their

“Seeking to reconnect the beating hearts of our largest

own shower-equipped bathroom. The train also has a

European cities, we set ourselves a challenge: create

restaurant and bar serving carefully sourced seasonal

a hotel on rails, thereby reawakening the enchanting

produce, handmade cocktails, craft beers and lively

experience of the night train.”

081

La Dolce Vita Orient Express announces its debut in Italy, with trains designed by Dimorestudio to pay tribute to La Dolce Vita.

Words: Catherine Martin

E

ver since Accor entered into a strategic partnership with

rail tourism project will welcome its first passengers in

SNCF Group to develop the Orient Express brand, the

2023, with six trains set to travel across Italy, taking in city

hospitality world has waited with bated breath to see

and countryside, from the Dolomites to the Lakes. Three

how the venture would play out. Accor – having acquired

dedicated routes will also connect destinations further afield,

a 50% stake – would bring competence in luxury hotel

including Paris, Istanbul and Split.

development while SNCF would provide expertise in rail

Named La Dolce Vita, each train will comprise 11

engineering, with both committed to protecting the heritage

carriages housing suites and public spaces, with Milan-

of the iconic brand.

based Dimorestudio appointed to design the interiors. The

At the time, Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and CEO of

overarching concept pays tribute to La Dolce Vita, a period

Accor, commented: “We are delighted with this strategic

of glamour, joie de vivre and artistic fervour in Italy during

partnership, which today cements the alliance of two major

the 1960s. In developing their scheme, Dimorestudio sought

French players in the world of travel for a shared purpose,

to combine this era with a ‘made in Italy’ spirit, all while

that of giving fresh impetus and international standing

honouring the heritage of the Orient Express brand. “The

to an historic and world-renowned brand. Thanks to this

design project of Orient Express La Dolce Vita was conceived

partnership, our customers will be able to enjoy a prestigious

to embody a flawless and understated balance between

range of services and exceptional experiences based on a

historical and contemporary, without losing its authenticity,”

portfolio of luxury brands.”

say Britt Moran and Emiliano Salci, Dimorestudio’s founders.

In the years since, Accor has announced that the first

“The spaces are thoughtfully designed and well-curated

static Orient Express hotels would open in Rome and Venice

without being ostentatious. Every element should feel like it

in 2024, but little was known of the future of the train

has always belonged there, to create a sense of sophisticated

component, which established the name back in 1883. Now,

depth and visual weights that can be interpreted as layers

150 years since Georges Nagelmackers launched the first

of exclusiveness. The subtle details complement each other

Orient Express train, Accor has revealed that the brand will

and flow effortlessly.”

return to the tracks for an unforgettable journey.

082

The train’s handsome livery introduces a palette of navy

Developed in partnership with Arsenale Group – a real

blue and rich brown, with brass accents adorning the window

estate company with various interests in hospitality – the

frames. Inside, the aesthetic is inspired by the Golden Age

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON LAND

083

The design scheme marries bold lacquered surfaces with smoked antique mirrors and heritage lamps

084

of the 1950s, 60s and 70s and the works of Italian

glow across the space. For the fare, Accor has revealed

greats such as Giò Ponti, Nanda Vigo, Gae Aulenti and

it will collaborate with chefs and sommeliers – both

Osvaldo Borsani. Across the 12 Deluxe Cabins, 18 Suites

local and international – to showcase ‘made in Italy’

and one Honour Suite – accommodating a total of 62

cuisine and wines.

passengers – the design scheme marries bold lacquered

The full La Dolce Vita experience will also include

surfaces with meticulous attention to detail extending

an overnight stay at one of the new Orient Express

to finishes and decorative elements. The Deluxe

hotels, while the executive lounge at Rome’s Termini

Cabins feature a sofa that unfolds to a double bed at

station – a central hub for all itineraries – will undergo

night along with ottomans that serve as both coffee

refurbishment. Both initiatives align with the ongoing

tables and seats, while Suites are presented as master

ambition of traditional hotel groups to widen their

bedrooms equipped with a sofa and two armchairs

scope and take in the entire travel experience.

around a table. Smoked antique mirrors increase the

For Accor, the venture serves as an opportunity to

perception of space, as do the large windows framed

broaden its horizons beyond static hotels, as well as

by curtains made using Dimoremilano fabrics. The

uniting with a brand that has a long history of luxury

furnishings range in colour from warm terracotta to

hospitality. “At Accor, we consider it an immense

a deep violet, with heritage lamps by the Great Masters

privilege to re-launch the historic Orient Express

completing the ensemble.

brand for passionate and discerning travellers,”

Alongside the accommodation, additional carriages

concludes Bazin. “These trains offer a new vision

are dedicated to dining and relaxation. The lounge

of luxury travel that is beyond our imagination. Our

car features undulated seating along the perimeter,

association with Arsenale Group has opened up new

where guests can sit back and enjoy a drink from the

horizons in perfect harmony with the heritage and

bar, while the restaurant cabin is decorated in a glossy

philosophy of Orient Express, and marks our constant

sage lacquer, enriched by wall lamps that cast a soft

desire to keep moving forward.”

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON LAND

085

MAIDEN VOYAGE IN THE AIR

Introducing the Space Lounge

Following the unveiling of Neptune – a spaceship

mood lighting and low-glare surfaces eliminate

designed by PriestmanGoode – Space Perspective

reflection during observation, and there’s also

has now revealed the interiors of its cabin.

a telescope for viewing far-away galaxies and

Billed as the world’s first Space Lounge, the

interactive screens to share key information.

Space Perspective unveils the world’s first Space Lounge, a state-of-the-art, customisable cabin on board Neptune.

concept features eight reclining seats as well

With a mission to provide a truly memorable

as a refreshments bar and storage cabinets

stay, Space Perspective has recently appointed

for personal belongings. Fitted-out with

hospitality and entertainment entrepreneur

sustainable materials, the lounge is designed

David Grutman to join the crew as Experience

to be flexible, meaning it is equally suited to a

Curator. If Grutman’s hotels, restaurants and

dinner party as a wedding, with every vantage

nightclubs are anything to go by, these space

point offering stellar views thanks to the

tourists will be in for a treat.

360-degree panoramic windows. Customisable

All Hail the Flying Taxi AeroMobil reveals a new door-to-door solution for the sky, this time offering more space for those on board.

With the race on to launch the world’s first flying car,

advantages over other Advanced Air Mobility solutions

developers are coming up with ever more futuristic

in that it will use existing infrastructure for take-off

concepts to take to the skies. One of the latest to hit

and landing. The vehicle also meets current automotive

the headlines is the four-seater AM Next by AeroMobil,

and aviation regulations and boasts a considerably

which follows the reveal of its Pegasus-inspired AM4.0

greater range than eVTOL craft.

model in 2017. Expected to take flight within the next

AeroMobil’s vehicles are the result of over ten years

five years, the aerial ride-hailing service will offer

of research and development and make use of cutting-

significant time-savings on regional routes in the 100

edge automotive and aerospace engineering, advanced

to 500-mile range, which are too far to drive and too

materials and luxury features. Transforming between

short, or inconvenient, to fly.

modes in less than three minutes, they are described

Accommodating a pilot, three passengers and their

by the firm as supercars that can fly, light aircraft that

luggage, the concept offers door-to-door travel,

can be driven. “Following AM4.0, the world’s first

removing the need to switch modes of transport or

production flying car, AM Next is set to disrupt and

wait between services. The small passenger numbers

democratise the regional travel market,” says AeroMobil

also ensure contact with others is kept to a minimum,

CEO Patrick Hessel. “We will leverage AM4.0’s proof of

which has become increasingly important in the current

concept and premium branding into AM Next’s mass-

climate. Once up in the air – 10,000ft at cruising altitude

market aerial service.”

– passengers have the space to work, rest or simply

In bringing the concept to market, AeroMobil plans

enjoy the view from the comfort of their reclining seat,

to manage the service through a booking app designed

with facilities including a cellular signal and an on-

by its team of in-house engineers. The two-seater

board entertainment system.

prototype is currently touring in the States, offering

Like AM4.0, the AM Next is thought to have

088

viewings for investors, operators and private buyers.

MAIDEN VOYAGE IN THE AIR

Taking Flight With a mission to provide an Urban Air Mobility solution for intra-city travel, Bellwether Industries first unveiled Volar in 2019, aiming to make better use of people’s time in daily life.

Three years on, the goal is a step closer, with the forwardthinking company releasing footage of its first successful test flight. Thought to be the world’s first eVTOL without a large wingspan or exposed blades, Volar is defined as a new category of private urban aircraft. It has a compact profile, the ability to take-off and land vertically and is environmentally friendly, boasting zero emissions. The test flight – conducted with a half-scale model – reached an altitude of 13ft at a speed of 25mph, and according to Bellwether Industries, demonstrates

Transport to Live, Work and Play

the stability and controllability of the vehicle. The trial has also kickstarted a series of development projects for the future,

Hyundai Motor Group has announced the formation of

including plans for a full-scale Volar – a four- to five-seat

Supernal, an evolution of its Urban Air Mobility division

aircraft carrying out intra-city travels at an altitude of 3,000ft

designed to lead its progress in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).

with speeds of up to 135mph.

Born out of a strategic move from traditional automaker to Smart Mobility Solution Provider, Supernal is currently developing a family of electric air vehicles, the first of which will be an autonomous-capable, four-to-five passenger eVTOL ready for a 2028 debut.

“In adding a new dimension to mobility, we are on a mission to transform how people and society move, connect and live,” explains Jaiwon Shin, CEO of Supernal and President of Hyundai Motor Group. “We have bold ambitions but being first to market is not one of them. We are working to build the right product and the right integrated market, and we will leverage Hyundai Motor Group’s scaled manufacturing expertise to ensure AAM reaches the right price point and is accessible to the masses.”

The US-based company is also working with a network of more than 50 pioneering companies to make mobility a service, not just a product. As such, it will integrate into existing transit networks to shape a seamless intermodal passenger experience. “We’re developing a commercially viable product from the start, designing and manufacturing our vehicle to the highest safety, noise, efficiency and affordability standards,” concludes Ben Diachun, Supernal’s Chief Technology Officer.

“Our growing team, which includes veterans of aerospace, automotive and other deep-tech industries, is engineering sustainable vehicles that have the potential to evolve how we live, work and play.”

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Project Envergure The travel industry has witnessed a surge in the popularity of one-of-a-kind hotel stays in recent years, with everything from prison cells to crane cabins converted into guestrooms.

While such ventures are often seen as gimmicks, they play an important role in making use of disused structures that would otherwise have been left to ruin. With this in mind, former Airbus engineer Frédéric Deleuze has identified an opportunity that serves as both an adaptive re-use scheme and a unique accommodation offer. After learning that many Airbus A380s – the world’s largest aircraft – would be dismantled in the wake of the pandemic, he launched Project Envergure, enlisting © Frédéric Deleuze and Groupe Duval

property developer Duval Group and local architectural agency MR3A to bring his vision to life. Spread across two decks in the fuselage of the plane, the luxury hotel will comprise 31 guestrooms as well as two 35m2 suites; one located in the cockpit with a bedroom, living space and en suite, and a duplex at the rear of the plane, utilising the original staircase. Located at Toulouse-Blagnac Airport in southern France, the plans also include a 60-cover restaurant housed in a control tower, where diners have a window-seat view of the runway.

Fly in Style Continuing its move upmarket, Air France has unveiled a new long-haul business seat designed to deliver the three Fs: Full Flat, meaning that the seat transforms into a horizontal bed measuring almost two metres in length; Full Access, providing all passengers with direct access to the aisle; and Full Privacy, cultivated by the use of a sliding door, which can block out other passengers if desired. For the manufacture of the seat, the airline has opted for soft, natural materials that are both breathable and comfortable, complemented by full-grain navy blue French leather and brushed aluminium accents.

Each seat is also embroidered with the company’s trademark red motif while the panels feature a backlit winged seahorse, embodying the founding myth of the company and its rich history. Completing the design are personal 17.3-inch 4K high-definition screens with noise-reducing headsets, and a new Bluetooth connection allowing passengers to use their own headphones and several electric sockets. The upgrade is progressively being rolled out on 12 Boeing 777-300s, with their debut coming in Autumn 2022 for passengers flying from Paris to New York JFK.

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MAIDEN VOYAGE IN THE AIR

Elevating the Passenger Experience Teague leverages Nordam technology to create a ‘floating bed’ in the sky.

With single-aisle aircrafts increasingly being

“At a time when passenger wellbeing and

used for long-haul flights, Teague – a design

sustainability are industry priorities, Elevate

and innovation agency for the transport sector

heralds a new generation of beautiful, simplified

– has created Elevate, a new cabin concept

cabin products that will enable airlines to deliver

that uses ‘floating’ furniture to reimagine the

exceptional experiences for their passengers

in-flight experience. Making use of Nordam’s

with the economic efficiency that these smaller

patent-pending Nbrace technology, the proposal

aircraft were designed to deliver,” explains

offers more personal space, privacy and comfort,

Anthony Harcup, Senior Director of Airline

without compromising the aircraft’s existing

Experience at Teague.

passenger numbers.

Nordam, a global leader in advanced

The concept is designed specifically for the

aerospace engineering, intends to supply Nbrace

constrained architecture of a narrowbody cabin,

to airlines and aviation companies worldwide to

and sees furniture installed via sidewall

spur further innovation within the cabin. “This

attachment points rather than the traditional

is a next-generation innovation that enables

floor-mounted tracks, so that it appears to float.

more creative freedom for the aircraft interior

The result is a lighter and more efficient suite

design community,” comments Nordam CEO

environment, which increases the bed size, living

Meredith Siegfried Madden. “By revolutionising

space and stowage capacity for every passenger.

how seats and other monuments attach to an

For business-class passengers, Teague has added

aircraft, Nbrace recruits previously wasted space,

customised lighting and full-height slatted

transforming it into new aesthetic possibilities

screens with a reverse herringbone layout to

and dramatically improved passenger comfort,

create a premium level of privacy.

space and privacy.”

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Finnair Forks Out In-flight dining forms a key part of the passenger experience, so it was only natural that Finnair would tap into its nation’s reputation for world-class design when it came to upgrading its tableware.

The airline has collaborated with celebrated Finnish creative Harri Koskinen and homegrown design brand Iittala on an exclusive new range made for business class travellers, as well as for premium economy guests on short-haul routes. The collection, which goes by the name of Kuulas, includes plates, bowls, cups, tumblers, wine glasses and cutlery, and is almost 20% lighter than Finnair’s previous tableware, supporting the airline’s weight reduction and emission targets.

“As a designer, I was fascinated by Finnair’s idea for the new flight experience to make the cabin feel like home,” says Koskinen. “Even though the Kuulas tableware is designed for the in-flight environment, the main task was to create authentic, familiar items that would remind the user of home and of tableware

Take A Seat

used in everyday life. Lasting materials and thoughtful design create a premium experience.”

The premium experience will extend to the food itself, with the Finnair Kitchen developing

Business class is getting an upgrade at Finnair, thanks to the introduction

a meal concept that champions Nordic cuisine

of the new Collins Aerospace AirLounge seat, now available across the

to complement the new series. When it comes to

Nordic airline’s entire long-haul fleet of A330s and A350s. Originally

dinnertime, expectations will be sky high.

conceived by PriestmanGoode, the concept was further developed by Collins Aerospace, with customisation and final design execution by Finnair and its appointed design partner, Tangerine.

A conscious move away from traditional aircraft seating, the new design is inspired by lounge furniture and sees the usual mechanisms replaced with a contoured shell that cocoons the passenger. The design allows for a variety of seating and sleeping positions, with an ottoman serving as a footrest and infill panels that create a fully-flat surface.

There are even mattresses and duvets on hand to transform the space into a comfortable bed, and a customised lighting scheme that allows passengers to tailor the ambiance of their nest. The in-seat lighting complements new cabin mood lighting designed in partnership with Jetlite to combat the effects of jet lag, ensuring travellers disembark feeling rested and restored.

“We wanted to rethink business class and create more of a residential environment, emulating the comfort you would expect at home,” explains David Kondo from Finnair’s Customer Experience team, who using 3D curved shells, we’re able to provide a larger flexible living space. This allows those on board to move more freely and take up different positions that traditional aircraft seats do not allow.”

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© Olli Häkkinen

led the project. “By doing away with complicated seat mechanisms and

MAIDEN VOYAGE IN THE AIR

Experiential Explorer Lufthansa Technik collaborates with Diehl Aerospace to develop an interior projection system for VIP cabins.

With the hours spent in the confines of a cabin on

yacht however, our Explorer aircraft allows passengers

arduous long-haul flights, passengers are often left

to travel to the other side of the globe within hours

pondering how they could better spend their time

and set up their own base camp for further activities.”

en route to a destination. Enter Lufthansa Technik,

The most striking feature of the concept is the large-

which has collaborated with Diehl Aerospace – a joint

scale projection system, which uses virtual content to

venture between Diehl Aviation and Thales – to develop

change the look and feel of the cabin. By integrating

an entirely new concept that transforms an aeroplane

projectors into the sidewall and ceiling, the moving

cabin into a multi-use living space.

images extend from the window belt across the entire

Named Explorer, the idea is based on the evolution

space, displaying personalised content with the help of

of superyachts, which have increasingly become more

software from Diehl. There’s a blue sky option and an

than just a means for travel, serving as a hotel room,

underwater scene with sealife, modes that are conducive

business lounge and entertainment space, as well as a

to work or relaxation, and even the possibility to create

base camp for excursions.

a flying discotheque.

In developing its concept, Lufthansa Technik’s

“By integrating the unique projection system of

specialists chose the wide-bodied Airbus A330 as a

Diehl, we have created an interior that exploits the

platform to bring the same approach to private aviation.

technology’s full potential for a VIP cabin,” comments

“In yacht building, multifunctional exploration vessels

Michael Bork, Aircraft Interior Architect in VIP and

have now become a class in their own right,” explains

Special Mission Aircraft Services at Lufthansa. “It is

Wieland Timm, Head of Sales in VIP and Special Mission

optimised under technical and aesthetic aspects to

Aircraft Services at Lufthansa. “For this fast-growing

provide an adequate framework for bringing a variety

target group of VIP world explorers, we have therefore

of atmospheres and virtual worlds to life, changing the

created a flying platform for the first time. Unlike a

overall look of the cabin by a fingertip.”

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MAIDEN VOYAGE IN THE AIR

Project Sunrise Qantas releases further details of its new A350 cabin, featuring a Wellbeing Zone for in-flight comfort.

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With personal wellbeing at the forefront of

recliner lounge chair, individual wardrobe for

minds in the wake of the pandemic, airlines are

each passenger and a 32-inch entertainment

looking for ways in which to enhance comfort

screen. There’s also a next-generation Business

in flight, whether through space, air quality or

Suite, a new Premium Economy seat pitched at

amenities. In recognition of this shift, Qantas

40 inches, and a new Economy seat pitched at

has revealed further details of its A350 cabin,

33 inches.

specially configured for improved comfort on

All passengers will also be invited to stretch

long-haul flights with more spacious seating and

their legs mid-air in the Wellbeing Zone, a

a Wellbeing Zone.

dedicated space at the heart of the plane designed

Forming part of Project Sunrise – a plan to

for movement, stretching and hydration with

provide direct flights from the east coast of

a self-serve snack station and digital displays

Australia to Europe and New York – the cabin

providing exercise and mobility recommendations

scheme has been developed in line with medical

set within a calming colour scheme. Rounding

and scientific data collected on research flights

out the wellness-focused concept, the aircraft

from New York and London to Sydney in 2019.

will be fitted with HEPA filters throughout to

The aircraft will carry 238 passengers – the

reduce 99.9% particles and refreshed air every

lowest seat count of any A350-1000 in service

2-3 minutes, meaning passengers will arrive

– across four classes, from First to Economy,

feeling refreshed.

with more than 40% of the cabin dedicated to

Qantas has now confirmed an order for 12

premium seating. The interior overhaul includes

Airbus A350-1000s featuring the new design,

the introduction of six spacious First Class Suites

with the aircraft expected to take flight on the

complete with a privacy door, separate bed and

long-haul route by 2025.

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SPECIFIER

CARGO

Parla 2022 Collection Parla, the designer and manufacturer of furniture for the hospitality sector, is set to launch its 2022 Collection at Cruise Ship Interiors Expo in Miami.

The new products include the Flento Bar Stool; Rain Small Console – the first in what will be a range of elegant storage solutions; the Hug Coffee Table – the latest addition to the family of curvaceous Hug pieces; and the Morwi A Chair, designed for outdoor use. In addition, the company presented its Rimo Armchair – which won a Bigsee Product Award earlier this year – and the Nigiri A Chair, winner of a Good Design Award from the Chicago Athaneum Museum of Architecture & Design. Also introduced was Arven, its best-selling bar stool to date; the Xaylon W Armchair, a refined statement piece designed by David Fox; and a custom-designed bar counter showcasing Parla’s craftmanship and manufacturing prowess in the creation of unique items of furniture. www.parladesign.com © Burak Teoman

Skopos Fabrics 50th Anniversary Collection Skopos Fabrics has been adorning the windows and bedrooms of flagship hotels and cruise liners with flame-retardant fabrics for the last five decades. To celebrate this landmark, Skopos is launching new designs within its 50th Anniversary Collection; a series of statement printed designs celebrating past ranges using contemporary design and production techniques. The evolved designs fall in line with current trends and are for use within marine and hospitality environments. Each month, the new styles will be available to order on base-cloths, including IMO-accredited upholstery velvets and a variety of drape qualities. www.skoposfabrics.com

Creative Matters Wonder of the Seas Having created floorcoverings for retail locations and hotels over the past 30 years, Creative Matters’ expansion into the cruise sector was a natural evolution. Through its marine division, Creative Matters works closely with cruise ship designers to achieve their vision while observing practical constraints. When collaborating with Royal Caribbean Group to create 16 carpet designs on board Wonder of the Seas, the studio’s marine team used its extensive design and production knowledge to meet colour, design and visual texture requirements. The designers achieved an elegant flow between the various patterns for corridors, lift lobbies, vestibules, stairs and half landings. Throughout the ship, the designs channel the surrounding ocean in a palette of ultramarine blues and neutral sand. Multiple designs for the suites included a complex relationship between the living room, staircase and bedroom. Wonder of the Seas is one of seven Royal Caribbean ships that now include Creative Matters’ carpet designs. In addition to bespoke patterns, the firm has the manufacturing capabilities to offer IMO-certified woven Axminster and hand-tufted carpets. www.creativemattersinc.com/marine-portfolio

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CARGO

Table Place Chairs Clover Pictured here aboard Virgin’s Scarlet Lady, Clover is the latest design-led seating collection from Table Place Chairs, comprising a bar stool, side chair, armchair and lounge chair. The frames are available in FSC-certified oak or beech, whilst the plywood seat and back are fully customisable in a range of standard wood finishes or upholstery options including IMO-certified fabrics and leathers. Every Table Place Chairs item has been contract tested for commercial use in high-traffic areas, making them ideal furniture solutions for cruise ships. www.tableplacechairs.com

Secto Design Secto Small 4201 Handmade from sustainably grown, PEFC-certified birch, Secto Design’s lamps capture the true essence of Scandinavian design.

Light filters through the carefully crafted wooden slats, allowing for a soft and supple glow that adds warmth to any space. The lighting manufacturer’s pendant lamps are available for cruise ship interiors with a special steel conduit that balances the movement of the pendant and meets the strict standards and tough demands of the marine sector. Designed by Finnish architect Seppo Koho, the Secto Design lighting collection comprises 27 models including pendants, ceiling, floor, wall and table lamps, all available in natural birch, laminated in white or black or in walnut veneer. www.sectodesign.fi

Dernier & Hamlyn Bespoke Lighting Dernier & Hamlyn has been designing and making bespoke lighting since 1888. This experience is particularly pertinent when working with superyachts, whose requirements can be unique and demanding. Guy Oliver, Managing Director of Oliver Laws, who has worked with Dernier & Hamlyn on many projects, comments: “Whenever I design a light fitting, it’s not just about making something that looks beautiful, it’s also creating something that’s easy to maintain and uses the right technology. Bringing in Dernier & Hamlyn’s expertise in this process is invaluable.” Interior design studio Muza Lab enlisted Dernier & Hamlyn to produce Art Deco-inspired custom lighting for its latest superyacht commission, which was first launched in 1931. “The team at Dernier & Hamlyn brought technical knowledge specific to yacht design so the relationship worked very well,” says Muza Lab co-founder Nathan Hutchins. “Visiting the factory allowed us to do mock-ups and play around with forms and materials so we could get the result that we ultimately wanted.” www.dernier-hamlyn.com/projects/superyachts

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CASE STUDY

Ligne Roset Le Commandant Charcot French furniture manufacturer Ligne Roset has supplied its Soufflot armchair to Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot, the newest addition to the Ponant fleet and the world’s first polar high-exploration vessel.

Designed by French architects Jean-Michel Wilmotte and Jean-Philippe Nuel, the 150m ship has been conceived as a cocoon, offering protection from the extreme surrounding environments. All of the common areas have been designed to convey French discreet luxury, while seeking to arouse wonder. As such, Jean-Philippe Nuel selected Ligne Roset’s Soufflot armchair for the main lobby, itself like a small luxurious and elegant cocoon. With its curving form, each armchair evokes the feeling of a protective softness in which to curl up. In contrast to the unique landscapes of ice, the armchairs are emblematic of softness and comfort. The two back heights make it possible to animate

the space, but also respond to complementary functions; the low backrest opens out into the space, while the high backrest, alone or in a pair, creates a protective and more private bubble.

Ligne Roset also developed a bespoke version of the Soufflot chair, featured in the vessel’s gourmet restaurant, as part of the same aesthetic approach. The flexibility and curves of the backrest bring a similar softness and comfort to the chair. These sensations, both formal and physical, are reinforced not only by the combination – both materials and colours – of two fabrics on the same chair, but also by the visual impression that the backrest floats on the seat. The optimal dimensions and the engagement under the table tops allow a small footprint that meets the requirements of the programme. www.ligne-roset.com

© Gilles Trillard

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CARGO

Frescolori Frescoton Plastered Concrete

Forest Group 3D Trackviewer App

Frescoton Plastered Concrete is one of Frescolori’s most popular surfaces, as seen on German cruise line Aida’s fleet. The smoothing compound can be applied to any substrate – whether plasterboard, plastic, metal or wood – and produces a surface that looks like poured concrete to create an urban loft feel. Using the finest raw materials, Frescolori has developed a unique product with the Frescolori-limemarble plaster, which withstands even the toughest use. The solution is resilient, does not wear away and is flame retardant, while it has also been certified – with both product and production – according to ship standard MSC 61 (67), FTP Code, Annex 1 and Part 5. www.frescolori.de

Forest Group specialises in the development, production and supply of highly innovative curtain tracks and window coverings, including solutions for marine interiors. Created specifically for interior architects and designers in the hospitality industry, the firm’s new 3D Trackviewer app allows professionals to visualise interactive 3D curtain track models. Not only can any track system be viewed in 360-degrees, the colour can also be changed and product information can be viewed easily. The 3D Trackviewer app is available to download for free in the App Store, Windows Store and Google Play Store. www.forestgroup.com

Roman Colours Shower designer and manufacturer Roman has launched an exclusive range of high specification shower enclosures available in 11 colours, with the main metallic finishes prevalent at the top end of the UK bathroom market – namely brushed brass, brushed nickel, polished black chrome and matte white. The Colours range features two new closing systems for the first time in 10mm glass; the sliding door offers a genuine soft-close operation and the hinged door has an advanced hydraulic soft-close system, which closes the door quickly until the 10mm glass kisses the colourless seals. The aluminium wall profiles feature Roman’s unique siliconefree wall fixing system, which utilises hydroactive tapes to give a water seal from inside the profile, meaning the products maintain the colour finish chosen without being covered in silicone during installation. The range comprises sliding doors, hinged doors, wetroom panels and a bath screen, all in key sizes and 11 colours. www.roman-showers.com

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Chelsom Decorative Touchless Switching

Ethimo Calipso

Developed in the wake of the pandemic, as the hospitality and marine sectors look to reduce physical touchpoints across their hotels and cruise ships, Chelsom’s Decorative Touchless Switching (DTS) system is a customised accessory that can be built into any of its standard or bespoke lighting products, whether a table lamp or wall light application. The DTS comprises an infrared sensor that detects when a hand passes over from a distance of 5cm, activating a switch to turn the light source on and off. The switch can be mounted within a table or desk lamp base, as well as the backplate of a wall-mounted sconce or reading light. The technology can also operate across a range of voltages, from 100 to 240VAC, and is compatible with both conventional and LED light sources, making it a suitable solution for all global markets and product designs. A knurled metal collar encases the sensor and can be plated or powder-coated in a selection of finishes, including brushed brass, black bronze, antique brass, brushed nickel and satin black. The decorative switch gives lighting and interior designers the opportunity to blend practical and aesthetic needs. www.chelsom.co.uk

Conceived by architect and designer Ilaria Marelli, the Calipso collection is the result of thorough compositional and stylistic research, seeking not just a new modularity and expressiveness for furniture, but also a new dimension of wellbeing capable of creating made-to-measure refined settings. Calipso is offered in three different modules (120 x 120cm, 180 x 120cm and 240 x 120cm), each featuring a base made with natural teak slats in varying sizes. The aluminium frame is particularly discreet, so much so that the lounge seats appear to be floating. The soft cushions are available in three sizes (100 x 100cm, 170 x 100cm and 200 x 100cm) and are free of the base they rest on, while the backrests are also unattached. And to ensure the body is fully supported, they use a special system of support that sees the inner padding combine different densities of rubber. “I envisioned Calipso as a versatile design with minimalist, elegant lines,” explains Ilaria Marelli. “A system whose modular spirit enables the creation of multiple flexible, reconfigurable solutions, ideal for integrating into a wide variety of outdoor settings.” www.ethimo.com

CARGO

Minotti Torri Nest

Leds C4 Prolix

Originally designed for indoor environments, Torri Nest is now migrating to open-air living spaces in armchair, lounge and dining, and little armchair versions. With structural details linked to Japanese tradition, the seats play with round-edged volumes, thin profiles and the formal simplicity of an extremely intricate design. The backrest’s varnished tubular steel frame, covered in woven cord in ecru and dark brown, sits on a base in natural teak or dark brown stained mahogany, supported by varnished aluminium legs with a polished, bronze-coloured anti-touch finish. www.minotti.com

Stylish, contemporary design and an adjustable beam angle are the distinctive features of Prolix, designed by Nahtrang Studio for Leds C4. Not only does Prolix feature a sleek faceted silhouette, but it also boasts an advanced lens that allows the beam angle to be adjusted from 15 to 50 degrees in order to achieve the desired lighting effect in any space. Crafted from aluminium, Prolix is available in pendant and ceiling versions, as well as matte gold and black finishes with a colour temperature of 2700K. www.leds-c4.com

Almaco Viking Glory Viking recently enlisted Almaco to design, build and deliver the catering areas, guest cabins, crew cabins and public areas on board its new Viking Glory vessel. The guest cabins come in several different categories and price ranges, but share a high level of comfort, with top-standard surfaces, furniture and mattresses, and well-functioning layouts. The crew cabins on the other hand were designed to ensure staff can relax and feel comfortable in the crew mess, gym and hang-out spaces, while the catering areas – which support the vessel’s ten restaurants – are well-equipped with modern and energy-saving solutions, meeting the highest quality standards for safety and hygiene in the industry.

As a climate-smart passenger ship, Viking Glory also utilises Almaco’s Galley Energy Management (GEM) solution to monitor and control the energy usage of the equipment in the galleys. www.almaco.cc

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Aqua Creations Lexus: Sparks of Tomorrow Since its first participation in 2005, Japanese manufacturer Lexus has created compelling, immersive experiences for visitors at Milan Design Week, partnering with leading talents such as Philippe Nigro, Neri Oxman, Sou Fujimoto and Rhizomatics to create new works of design inspired by its own values and vision. This year’s event, Lexus: Sparks of Tomorrow, will present a trio of design explorations, all taking cues from the automaker’s human-centric, futureoriented approach to design. Compelling and engaging, the event will include an immersive installation by architect and designer Germane Barnes in collaboration with lighting design studio Aqua Creations. A reimagining of Barnes’ On/ showcase at Design Miami 2021, the installation is centred around a precisely-to-scale, three-dimensional sculptural realisation of the RZ – the first dedicated batteryelectric model in the Lexus line-up – rendered in steel and

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illuminated. The frame of the car glows and is suspended just above the ground, representing a vision of a more sustainable future. Building on this principle of a concept coming to life, the installation will feature Aqua Creations’ Code 130° collection of colourful pendant lights, which will illuminate the vehicle while adding a delicate, material and joyful quality to the Sparks of Tomorrow experience.

Shifting from the futuristic lighting scheme featured in Miami, the lighting from Aqua Creations creates an elegant, physical embodiment of electricity that exemplifies a shared commitment to the principles of design excellence evident in the expertly-crafted RZ, while the colour selection for the 50-piece installation will provide a strong contrast to illuminate the sleek white wireframe of the RZ and contribute to the role of reflection in the scheme. www.aquagallery.com

Sleeper Media – the leading brand for hospitality experience and design.

Visit the store to receive your copy. www.sleeper.media/store

FINAL CALL

Back to the Future

An other-worldly accommodation pod lands in South West England, transporting guests to another time.

Is it a plane? Is it a submarine? Is it a spaceship?

sleek forms of the furniture and lighting are

No, this elliptical pod with porthole windows

accompanied by bursts of colour, as seen in the

and an eye-catching fibreglass shell is in fact an

reclining chairs upholstered in vibrant mustard.

accommodation cabin, where guests can spend

Despite the popularity of Futuro House, fewer

the night inside an iconic piece of avant-garde

than 100 were actually produced and now only

architecture. Nestled in the wilds of Marston

a handful remain. This model was rescued from

Park in Somerset, Futuro House was originally

ruin by artist Craig Barnes, who transported it

designed by Finnish architect Matti Suuronen

from South Africa to the UK, where he has spent

back in 1968. It builds on the traditions of Nordic

the last decade restoring it to its original glory.

summer camps, with a modular construction

“The Futuro encapsulates the zeitgeist of late

that makes for easy transportation to remote

Sixties design, architecture, interiors, culture

locations, and a robust form able to withstand

and lifestyle in one object,” he explains. “It was

harsh winters.

a beacon of belief in there being better ways to be,

Entered via a spaceship-like hatch, the cabin

at a time when optimism was in more plentiful

features a flexible living space – complete with

supply. Now more than ever, we need talismanic

kitchenette and two curtained-off sleeping

artefacts to teach us not just of the failings of the

areas – decorated to honour the 1960s obsession

past, but to imbue us with a sense of possibility

with all things Space Age. The fluid shapes and

for the future.”

© Chris Wakefield

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