By
Rebecca Gibson |
This article was first published in the Autumn/Winter 2019 issue of International Cruise & Ferry Review. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed.
Having debuted in October 2019, Princess Cruises’ Sky Princess promises to take cruise guests to new heights with the introduction of the line’s first luxurious Sky Suites. Designed by Miami-based interior design firm Studio DADO, the two suites are centrally located on the ship’s top deck, enchanting guests with a 270-degree panoramic view from what is the largest-ever balconies at sea.
When it embarked on the project, Studio DADO began by developing a floor plan, manipulating with the architecture to add unique angles that create unexpected sightlines for guests. The aim was to make spaces that slowly revealed themselves to guests in a wholly different way to traditional ship suites.
Guests arrive in a modern and elegant dining room, which opens up to a spacious living room. A decorative metal screen separates the two rooms, creating a visual division but still providing transparency throughout the space. Paying homage to the name of the suites, a skylight located above the sculptural dining table dramatically pierces through the room into the sky above. Suspended within the skylight is a chandelier made of crystal and metal, which creates a constantly changing refractive lighting effect within the suite throughout the day.
Proceeding through the suite, the strategically angled walls reveal a carefully crafted space that unveils the most private oceanfront views on the ship. To complement the well-appointed interior living spaces, Studio DADO has also designed a continuous balcony, which is more than 1,000 square feet in size and outfitted with luxury furniture where guests can relax privately, watch movies under the stars, or host their own catered events.
Guests also have a direct and unobscured view of the ocean from the master bedroom, which features a grand décor scheme and a mural-like headboard that spans the entire wall. The upholstered headboard pattern was inspired by the rays of light that come from the sky. Taking into account the technology needs of the modern traveller, the master bedroom is equipped with multiple charging and USB ports, plugs and reading lights.
The curated elements of the Sky Suite mark a transition from the traditional Princess Cruises suites, instead embracing a more contemporary, yet still sophisticated, design aesthetic. Finishing touches include hardwood and porcelain floors, a hand-carved area rug, rich wood tones with inlaid mirrors and polished white stone. Cleaner lines, sleeker furniture and fresher hues of colour creates a warm and inviting space that fully showcases Princess Cruises’ new design direction.
Hosting five guests in contemporary and elegant surroundings, the Sky Suites deliver a luxurious ocean journey unlike any other. Studio DADO’s refreshing, yet expert, approach to design has set a new benchmark for the suites in upcoming Princess Cruises ships.
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