By
Rebecca Gibson |
This article was first published in the Spring/Summer 2017 issue of International Cruise & Ferry Review. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed.
London-based AD Associates is rapidly becoming a respected name in the marine interior design industry. Strong concepts, considered designs and a contemporary edge are the qualities that have helped the studio to solidify an exciting and long-term relationship with Crystal Cruises.
One of AD Associates’ past projects was Crystal Esprit, whose sleek and comfortable interiors make her feel more like a boutique hotel or high-end residence than a typical cruise offering. For this project, AD Associates had to work closely with Crystal to distil the big ship experience down into a much smaller package, while simultaneously creating the next generation of Crystal vessels.
In July 2016, AD Associates founder Chris Finch used 20 years of design experience and the expertise of his creative team to reimagine river ship Crystal Mozart as a ‘Ship for All Seasons’.
Acting as lead architect for the public and crew areas, the studio adopted an empathetic approach and retained the structural character of Crystal Mozart. The team also created the brand concept and livery, as well as signage that complements the interiors both functionally and aesthetically. Crystal Mozart has since become another design signature for Crystal, showcasing the brand’s memorable guest experience and ‘Crystal Difference’.
Crystal Mozart’s principal dining venue is the Waterside restaurant, which has a farm-to-table dining concept. Flexibility allows guests to enjoy an informal self-service approach during the day, and an à la carte table service throughout the evening.
AD Associates adopted an artisanal approach, working with skilled craftsmen to realise exquisite detailing and elegant clean lines. A prime example of this is the reeded glass and copper sliding doors, flanked at either side by striking copper fretwork screens. Bespoke and original artwork has a key presence in Waterside – and throughout Crystal Mozart – including delicate ceramic pieces which were handcrafted to add another layer of detail to the space.
A great design synergy is present on the Crystal Deck and runs throughout Crystal Mozart. Bistro Mozart is a prime example, reflecting the informal offering, while echoing the chic adjoining areas that it feeds from. Contemporary artwork and sleek accents add a level of layered depth and style. Elsewhere, AD Associates has recreated a residential setting with a focal marble fireplace that emits vapour flames to give a home-from-home feeling in the comfortable reception lounge seating area.
Other notable intimate settings onboard the vessel are Crystal’s signature Connoisseur Club and Vintage Room. Both have a worldly elegance, and the combination of timber and studwork makes the Connoisseur Club an ideal retreat to sample one of Crystal’s fine cognacs and a cigar.
These venues create a juxtaposition with the freshness of Blue and Palm Court, displaying AD Associates’ ability to successfully incorporate diversity and give a project a design edge. Palm Court’s emerald blue and jade green tones come to life during the evening when Crystal offers its renowned entertainment. Sympathetic to the ship’s heritage, the original Bösendorfer piano has been restored and placed in the venue.
Moving to the open Vista Deck, AD Associates has delivered a unique design both in terms of concept and structure. The nature of river cruising and low-lying bridges required a multi-functional approach, resulting in all elements being collapsible. This includes the Pop-Up Bar, which has a vanishing screen for evening movies under the stars. At the front of the Vista Deck, guests can enjoy a permanent garden seeded around large skylights. These were a design solution to introduce additional natural light across the public areas on the Crystal Deck below.
Considered to be Europe’s ‘Queen of the Rivers’, Crystal Mozart is a precious jewel. The overall aesthetic is that of a timeless contemporary elegance and, for the river market, introduces a game-changing service and design, set to inspire and attract the next generation of guests.
Since global leisure and hospitality company Genting Hong Kong acquired Crystal Cruises in May 2015, it has also established a new shipyard group, MV Werften, which is facilitating the rapid expansion of Crystal’s fleet. Building on the success of Crystal Mozart, AD Associates has been appointed as Crystal’s main research and development architect and is taking the lead on a further four river vessels, two of which will be complete this year.
Looking to the future, AD Associates is both excited and privileged to continue working with Genting and Crystal as a trusted design professional. Newbuild projects for the river ships and Crystal Endeavor expedition vessel require the studio to maintain a positive pace of development. However, AD Associates will always remain grounded to ensure that the strength and ethos of a client’s brand is reflected throughout the design process, from concept through to completion. It took just eight months to turn around Crystal Mozart, proving that it is possible to work efficiently and set the standard for high quality interiors, leading to game-changing design.