By
Jon Ingleton |
This article was first published in Spring/Summer 2018 issue of the International Cruise & Ferry Review. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed.
What hospitality design trends are currently causing a buzz in the M Studio office?
Our studio is based in the Design Centre at Chelsea Harbour, London. There is a wide array of suppliers that showcase new products twice a year. Though they are predominately high-end suppliers, it is still a good gauge to see what is happening in the marketplace. We have seen a move away from neutrals to a more eclectic mix of colours and patterns. Strong jewel-like colours are popular, and there has been a resurgence of peach and pink tones. Our clients are increasingly bolder in their choice of accent colours and wall and floor finishes. I believe it is important to create interiors with personality.
Passenger ship owners are increasingly seeking to emphasise their sustainability credentials. How are you able to support this goal in your designs?
We all have to play our part at being mindful of what materials are specified within the industry. Green credentials for suppliers’ products are increasingly important. To support sustainability in ship design we often source local materials and opt for products that can be recycled after use. We build partnerships and a good dialogue with all the parties involved in the process because it is important to work with experts from a diverse range of fields.
There is significant equity in brand identity, but how do you approach delivering this in your work for individual clients while avoiding repetition?
We approach every project with a fresh outlook. Though the client brief may have similarities to previous projects, we work to find a new solution. To be creative, we have to evolve a design with a client, so it is unique to them. As a design practice, we work on a diverse range of projects and therefore have a variety of suppliers that we can call on, so we know our projects will stand out.
Cabin design has been through a few mini-revolutions – have we reached the end of innovation for this critical space?
There is always room for innovation. People’s habits and needs change regularly over time and design needs to adapt to these changes. New materials and technology, such as thinner TV screens and lighter materials, help to push the boundaries. Connectivity is key as most passengers want to use their personal smart devices during their cruise.
How do you judge design excellence? Are there some simple criteria that owners can measure before they are exposed to passenger critique?
Some of the important criteria to assess are: quality of materials, atmosphere, energy efficiency and sustainability, comfort and durability.