Virgin Voyagers has unveiled the first infographics of some exterior spaces and interior designs under the brand's inspiration: "The modern romanticism of sailing.".
Seeking to redefine what is expected of a holiday at sea and create an Epic Change For All, Virgin Voyages has carefully selected a “Creative Collective” highlighting some of the most prestigious international interior design firms, none of which had previously designed for the cruise industry.
Virgin Voyages has partnered with Tom Dixon's Design Research Studio in London, Roman and Williams in New York, Croncrete Amsterdam, Softroom in London, and WorkAC in New York. Virgin Voyages' first ship will enter service in 2020.
“At the heart of our Epic Change For All is ensuring that the spaces on our ships are stylish, original, and reflect the dynamic experience we want to provide our guests,” said Tom McAlpin, President and CEO of the company. Virgin Voyages has chosen to engage multiple design studios, focusing on each studio’s strengths to showcase diversity throughout the ship, using the principle of “the modern romanticism of sailing” as a guide for a cohesive vision.
Starting with the highest deck, Richard's Rooftop, designed by Tom Dixon's Design Studio, will be an exclusive outdoor lounge reserved for suite guests. It's a private club with a futuristic aesthetic, curved sofas, large umbrellas, and dichroic glass decorations that will project multicolored shadows and reflections throughout the area.
Inside the ship, Tom Dixon's famous Void lamp will adorn the entrance to Pink Agave, the luxury Mexican restaurant designed by Design Research Studio. Metallic electric blue sconces will cascade from the ceiling above oversized seating that aligns with the portholes of this dining room, which will feature round tables for two, though it will also have a private room for larger groups.
Known for their work on celebrity mansions and stunning hotels like New York's The Standard High Line, design studio Roman and Williams was a natural choice to design The Manor, nightclub . Inspired by Richard Branson's history in the music industry and Virgin's first recording studio of the same name, dance music will fuel the space, which has been carefully designed to see and be seen. With emerald and aubergine hues and gold accents, The Manor will bring sparkle and glamour to the seaside.
Roman and Williams are also the minds behind The Dock, an outdoor lounge focused on relaxation, socializing, and enjoying the views the ship offers. Located at the stern of Deck 7, The Dock is reminiscent of the chicest lounges in the Hamptons, Ibiza, Bali, and beyond. The inspiration for The Dock was to create a space where, during the day, the sun and sailing take center stage, and a cold drink, a book, and the views provide the perfect companions.
Returning to the ship's upper decks, relaxation and adult leisure meet glamour at The Athletic Club, an outdoor lounge that pays homage to traditional nautical elements, designed by Concrete Amsterdam. The highlight is the largest sun lounger around its perimeter; this semicircular area of red and white stripes is perfect for sunbathing or stargazing. A large net allows sailors to view the space below as if they were sailing on a catamaran. The lounge also features 10 cabanas with ocean views and bar service.
Known for infusing emotion and a touch of eccentricity into their designs, the team at Concrete Amsterdam are the brilliant minds behind hotels like citizenM and Hotel Zoku, as well as restaurants like 212 Amsterdam, among others. Their human-centered approach will encourage diners to focus on form, function, and the elements of food at Test Kitchen. Concrete Amsterdam has designed a restaurant with a striking entrance featuring lighting reminiscent of the periodic table. The laboratory-style ambiance is accentuated by metal furniture, clean straight lines, and, of course, the finishing touches of test tubes and matrices.
The remaining public areas and cabins designed for Virgin Voyages will be revealed throughout the year as a continuation of the #ShipTease series that the company is carrying out.
