94 PROFILED Designing wellness at sea SMC Design has used high-quality materials, natural colours and simple geometry to create an authentic Japanese onsen experience in the Grand Spa onboard NYK Cruises’ new ASUKA III The SMC Design team paid homage to Japan’s yudō bathing traditions with indoor and outdoor baths offering panoramic views Set to debut in summer 2025, ASUKA III, the new flagship for NYK Cruises will mark a refined evolution in Japanese cruising. Fusing existing brand touchpoints with a fresh, contemporary and global style, London-based firm SMC Design created the interiors, outside areas, signage and wayfinding for the ship. At the heart of SMC Design’s vision is the Grand Spa, which will offer features developed specifically for the Japanese market. Located on the ship’s upper decks, the spa will have full-height glazing to bathe the area in natural light and provide uninterrupted 180-degree views of the ocean from multiple spaces. “We wanted the Grand Spa to feel like a journey in itself, a sanctuary that embodies harmony and tranquillity,” says Oliver Raine, senior designer and project manager at SMC Design. “A progression of calm is achieved through simple geometry and quiet transitions that – when combined with the subtle palette of natural, textured materials and discreet washes of lighting – create a sense of calm and wellbeing.” SMC Design has carefully selected materials for the spa, choosing a family of tiles that subtly vary in colour, size and texture depending on their location within the space. Brushed metal finishes and neutral timber tones contribute to an elevated, sensory-rich spa environment. The choice of materials also reflects a commitment to both quality and functionality, with durable and easy-tomaintain surfaces to ensure the spa will remain both practical and luxurious. The spa features a variety of traditional Japanese washing and bathing facilities, including both indoor and outdoor baths with panoramic views. To ensure they could fully understand and honour the cultural significance of yudō (bathing), members of the design team visited Japan to immerse themselves in a traditional onsen experience. This helped to bring a level of authenticity to the specific design requirements. “From the unique glass-walled sauna to the multisensory experience showers and open-air baths, the design of the Grand Spa aboard ASUKA III brings the spirit of yudō to the sea,” says Oliver. “It will offer a wellness experience where traditional rituals meet contemporary cruising luxury.” Photo: SMC Design
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