Interview with Yohandel Ruiz, Studio DADO
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Prima will blow guests away with its style, luxury and space. Here’s how Studio DADO made the magic happen.
What spaces did you design on the new Norwegian Prima?
Studio DADO was responsible for the largest number of spaces on the Norwegian Prima, encompassing the highest percentage of total public area. This included various restaurants, staterooms and public areas, from concept through to design and construction.
What new innovations did you incorporate into your design for the new ship?
Norwegian Prima will be the most experiential ship at sea, so the four founders of Studio DADO wanted to ensure all spaces shared a cohesive experiential ethos. As part of this process, Studio DADO surveyed the world’s most visited and luxurious locations, from the Burj al Arab and Dubai’s premium attractions to the glitz of Las Vegas’ nightlife. The most sought-after elements of these land-based attractions were then recreated to become once-in-a-lifetime experiences at sea, elevating guests’ expectations of what is possible on board a cruise ship – such as the Penrose Atrium, a three-level atrium, inspired by iconic meeting places such as St Peter’s Square in the Vatican or St Mark’s Square in Venice. Key features include a three-deck-high light feature reflecting the sun rising on the horizon, as well as a custom piece resembling a topographic map of the ocean made from metal and lighting.
What are some of the design challenges specific to cruise ships, and how were these overcome with
Norwegian Prima?
Designing spaces on board cruise ships comes with its challenges. Designers need to become masters of innovation to balance the ability to push the boundaries of design to create something new, exciting, and experiential, while providing the comforts of home at the highest level of luxury. The height of design on board is an unparalleled and modern experience appointed with the familiar, integrated tech solutions of home while giving full detailed attention to the line, superior craftsmanship, and elegant palettes.
What are some unique design details that may be overlooked but really enhance the cruise experience on Norwegian Prima?
Our desire was for guests to enter their suites and sink into familiarfeeling surroundings, but with elevated luxury, thanks to custombuilt furniture, elegant colour palettes and commissioned artwork. Connectivity is also seen throughout the ship, such as in the cutting-edge Galaxy Room, where guests can enjoy the leading responsive technology in gaming – not something you’d expect to find many miles out to sea.
What’s one of the most rewarding aspects of being an interior design agency that is 100% dedicated to cruise ship interiors?
Ships are conceived many years in advance, so we’re designing something which needs to be future-focused and timeless, so we’re constantly looking to set a new standard of design for the industry. Gone are the days of the nauticalinspired cruise ship interior; today’s designs are inspired by land-based hospitality venues, by art and by nature, often surpassing the designs of hotels and venues on the shore.