Cruise & Ferry Review - Autumn/Winter 2021

1 4 8 Studio DADO carefully plans the layout of spaces such as the living rooms in the suites onboard Oceania Cruises’ new Vista INTERV IEW Javier Calle and Yohandel Ruiz explain to Rebecca Gibson how Studio DADO has rapidly built an industry-wide reputation for creating compelling stateroom designs over the past five years B y the end of 2023, there will be more than 15,000 staterooms at sea that have been designed by award-winning boutique hospitality design firm Studio DADO. Just five years after it was first established in Miami, Florida, the firm is now renowned for its expertise in creating compelling guest accommodation onboard some of the newest and most innovative cruise ships in the world. Every stateroom project begins with Studio DADO cultivating an in-depth understanding of both the cruise client and its guests. “It’s crucial for us to fully understand our client’s brand promise, market position and guest demographic, as well as the operational requirements and the type of experience it wants to offer,” says Yohandel Ruiz, founding partner of Studio DADO. “Similarly, it’s vital for us to learn more about the guests, including everything from their likes and dislikes to their motivations for cruising with our client, the brands they shop with, and much more. These insights inform our design choices to ensure we create spaces that resonate well with our client and its guests.” One of the biggest considerations is whether the team is designing accommodation for a large cruise ship aimed at the younger market, or a smaller luxury vessel targeted at the older and wealthier demographic. “Mainstream operators want ships with multiple dining and entertainment spaces and as many staterooms as possible so they can maximise capacity,” says Javier Calle, founding partner of Studio DADO. “Consequently, staterooms can sometimes be small, which requires us to devise innovative solutions to optimise every square millimetre of space and give guests the illusion they are much larger than they are. For example, we’ll incorporate elements such as hidden storage and multipurpose furniture, and we integrate LED lighting to improve the visual impact and ambience of the space. “It can be challenging because these staterooms are often prefabricated, so there’s less design flexibility. Plus, because there are so many staterooms, we must carefully consider materials so we don’t exceed weight limits.” Although luxury ships are much smaller overall, their suites and staterooms are comparatively larger than on mainstream vessels. “Luxury operators offer longer itineraries, so guests tend to spend more time in their staterooms,” says Calle. “Hence, we must create a bespoke ‘home away from home’ experience with upscale furnishings, fixtures and fittings. Guest accommodation areas for these vessels are generally built in situ, so it’s easier to adapt the architectural design.” Studio DADO also aims to incorporate key trends into its stateroom designs. “Now that guests can easily customise products and experiences onshore, individualisation is a major priority for cruise operators,” says Ruiz. “Consequently, we aim to give guests the flexibility to use the space in a way that best suits their personal needs and preferences. For instance, we’ll ensure the design caters to those who want to watch TV from the sofa, and those who prefer to watch from bed.” Another simple but effective way to add individuality is through artwork, a technique Studio DADO is employing onboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Norwegian Prima. “We’ve commissioned Inspiring innovators