As Crystal prepares for its anticipated unveiling this summer, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony will introduce lavish design concepts in collaboration with the finest international partners. From redesigned public spaces and modern guest rooms and suites to refined in-room amenities and exclusive linens designed for royalty, the new Crystal experience is a feast for the eyes with elevated touchpoints throughout.
Chief Executive Officer of Abercrombie & Kent, Cristina Levis, said: “As we welcome guests back to Crystal, we are delighted to unveil a look and feel that blends the best of its renowned past with a new vision fit for a bright future ahead. Fresh colours, unique textures and first-class tangible elements create an ambiance that evokes timeless moments of leisure and will leave guests with memories that will last a lifetime.”
Tillberg Design of Sweden (TDoS) is the lead designer of Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony with projects encompassing public spaces, dining venues, as well as the recently announced Aurōra Spa. TDoS was tasked with creating spaces that blended classical elements and modern materials with a dash of Mediterranean influence. The resulting design was a refined and lasting concept that exemplifies contemporary and sophisticated layers within a refreshed setting.
“We are delighted to once again receive the trust from Crystal, this time with a studious and sophisticated renewal of the brand and its rich heritage,” said TDoS Partner & Executive Director Fredrik Johansson. “We are working closely with Crystal management to ensure that their iconic fleet stays top-rated by the guests and profitable for the owners.”
GEM – Design for Cruise Ships
For the redesign of select guest rooms and suites, Crystal enlisted leading cruise ship architectural firm, GEM. The new concept features neutral tones and high-end fixtures complemented with subtle hues of paste colours and shades of grey and beige that resonate with the colour of the ocean.
“It was a pleasure to spearhead the design of select guest rooms and suites for Crystal. Our vision was to create a refined space for guests that embodies an ambiance of contemporary and classic elements, while complementing the already existing collection of adored accommodations,” said Managing Director of GEM, Lorenzo Mortola. “Our main goal was to merge smaller sized guest rooms into larger suites that offer a separate living room and bedroom areas, large bathrooms with a walk-in shower and double faucets and sinks. With more space, guests will have all the functions expected on a high-end cruise, while offering the best comforts of home.”
With Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony guest rooms and suites accommodating a 740 and 606 guest capacity respectively, travellers can choose between various rooming options—some with spacious verandas—whose extensive renovations have reduced overall guest capacity in pursuit of maximising in-room relaxation. Both ships will also include two new guest room categories – the Jr. Crystal Penthouse Suite and Single Guest Room with Ocean View as an option for solo travellers. These new categories will also increase the availability of the popular Sapphire Suite category.
Every component of the redesign was carefully considered. The project architect, Adriana Granato, an Adjunct Professor of Architecture at Politecnico di Milano, and of Studio Ibsen, led the team that illustrated all renderings of the new guest rooms and suites. She personally traveled to a quarry in the Italian Alps to choose the Fior di Pesco marble slabs, also known as peach flower, for its precious veins of peach shade that give the stone the name.
“To be part of this unprecedented comeback and refurbishment of such an iconic brand is such an honour,” said Ms Granato. “I am so excited to see the renderings come to life when Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony take to the water. I know the guests are going to love everything about them.”
Crystal is the first in the industry to collaborate and work exclusively with the Venice-born Jesurum 1870 brand whose ethos is motivated by dedication and innovation. Guests residing in the Aquamarine categories and above can expect an enhanced night’s rest with the 100% made-in-Italy products of the bespoke Carol collection that offers an undulating, ogee-inspired border in gorgeous embroidery and was selected due to its resemblance to Crystal’s logo.
“We are honoured to have been chosen from Crystal for this project and are proud to be part of their new journey,” said Paola Cimolai, CEO of Jesurum 1870. “The eloquent accommodations combined with our delicate bed linens will be sure to offer the perfect night’s sleep to Crystal guests.”
In collaboration with La Bottega, a renowned hospitality curator for in-room amenities, Ortigia was tapped to supply soap and fragrance products onboard. Founded in Sicily, Ortigia’s products are indigenous to its motherland and inspired by the scents and elements of Italy’s tropical region. Soft and delicate, the bath and shower experience will transport guests to a field of Sicilian spring wildflowers and offers notes of narcissus, wild iris, and jasmine.
“I worked with Ortigia in a previous role, and I am so in love with the brand that I had to bring it onboard our Crystal ships,” added Levis. “We are also working on a second alternative line that will be available in 2024.”
Planned voyages will travel throughout the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Canada and New England, Alaska, the Caribbean, through the Panama Canal, the Middle East, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
