Cruise and Ferry Review - Summer/Spring 2020

2 2 0 Studio DADO considers the Sky Suites as the pinnacle of its design achievements on Sky Princess INTERV IEW Modern sophistication fit for a Princess Rebecca Gibson asks Studio DADO executives how they helped Princess Cruises set new design standards onboard Sky Princess, which debuted in October 2019 B oasting expansive balconies, ocean-facing bedrooms, modern lounges and dining areas, and chandeliers suspended in an innovative skylight, the two Sky Suites on Sky Princess have pushed Princess Cruises into a new era of modern sophistication. Impressed by award-winning design firm Studio DADO’s work on these suites, Princess Cruises asked it to develop the interiors for all guest accommodation, elevator lobbies and stairways. After speaking with Princess Cruises executives to understand how they saw the brand evolving, Studio DADO set out to create stimulating spaces that would incorporate all the traditional design elements Princess Cruises’ guests love, but also offer a contemporary twist. Studio DADO took a ‘less is more’ approach, creating clean lines complemented by rich and sophisticated materials, clever colour palettes and layered details for a contemporary, yet timeless, design aesthetic. Staterooms are decorated with soft and relaxing neutral colours and modern wood tones, while passenger corridors have a brighter colour palette and the elevator lobbies feature neutral tones and elegant light fixtures. “We stepped back and pinpointed the areas where we could make the biggest impact,” says Javier Calle, founding partner at Studio DADO. “We developed sophisticated carpet designs with more neutral colours, added rich modern wood tones and chose furniture with cleaner lines. We kept Princess Cruises’ traditional ornamental mouldings but made them more tailored and minimalistic.” The result is a sophisticated ship reminiscent of a high-end boutique hotel. “Our goal was to help launch the new era of design for the Princess Cruises brand,” says Jorge Mesa founding partner of Studio DADO. “We’ve created a modern environment but kept the elegance and sophistication that Princess Cruises is known for. Our design aesthetic will be seen on future ships too.” CFR “Our goal was to help launch the new era of design for the Princess Cruises brand” Jorge Mesa, Studio DADO