The dramatic new look that resulted from Crystal Symphony’s most extensive dry dock ever in fall of 2017 has earned the acclaim of some of the top design experts in the world. In the 2019 AHEAD (Awards for Hospitality Experience and Design), the luxury ship won in the annual awards’ Transport category in the Americas division, citing details from her makeover created by London-based AD Associates. Design features like blackened steel, aviary-style structures and living walls were crafted in Crystal Symphony’s new Silk Kitchen & Bar – located adjacent to the Trident Grill and serving a fusion of Chinese comfort food – giving it a contemporary and cozy feel accented by natural elements, while the functionality of the space remained paramount.
“The aesthetic of our ships is sophisticated and elegant, yet approachable, while the heart of the onboard experience is focused on the personal and streamlined service offered, so any design elements must not only accommodate that priority, but also enhance it,” said Jan Sorensen, vice president of hotel newbuild & refurbishment for Crystal Cruises. “We are delighted with the innovative and beautiful features the team at AD Associates incorporated into Crystal’s vision for a design that maximises the standard of service we can provide to our guests.”
The expert judging panel for AHEAD comprises leading hoteliers, architects, interior designers and commentators, who commented, “AD Associates were tasked with designing spaces that would retain the coveted position that Crystal holds in the luxury travel sector… the scheme adds a sense of variety to the bustling cruise ship experience, enabling service touchpoints to be easily accessible, practical and intuitive.”
Crystal has long been acclaimed for its superior standard of genuine and personalised service that anticipates and often exceeds guests’ wishes. This philosophy is the central tenet of all aspects of a Crystal voyage, from the onboard design, amenities and suites to the company’s new brand campaign, “Where Luxury is Personal.” The dry dock redesign of Crystal Symphony – and that of sister ship Crystal Serenity in 2018 – reflects this approach, implementing more features and experiences that allow guests to enjoy their Crystal holidays precisely as they choose.
New and additional dining venues (including Silk Kitchen & Bar) and open seating offer travellers more choices for their daytime culinary experiences and evening dining and entertainment. The makeover also saw the transformation of verandah staterooms into brand new Seabreeze Penthouses and Seabreeze Penthouse Suites, adding more of the butler-serviced accommodations and effectively reducing the ship’s overall capacity. Other reimagined spaces include the favourite hub for afternoon tea and evening cocktails and dancing, Palm Court, the Starlite Club (Crystal Symphony) and Stardust Club (Crystal Serenity) and the ships’ respective Galaxy Lounges. Intuitive, interactive technological amenities were also added in guest suites and public spaces throughout the ship.
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