Crystal redesign blends classic, modern with a dash of the Mediterranean

'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,' said Cristina Levis, CEO, A&K Travel Group.

Tillberg Design

Tillberg Design of Sweden (TDoS) was chosen as the lead designer for Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony with projects encompassing public spaces, dining venues and the recently announced Aurōra Spa. TDoS was tasked with creating spaces that blend classical elements and modern materials with a dash of Mediterranean influence. The result is a refined concept of 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 architectural firm GEM. Their new concept features neutral tones and high-end fixtures complemented by subtle pastel hues and shades of gray and beige that resonate with the color of the ocean.

'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,' GEM Managing Director Lorenzo Mortola said. 'Our main goal was to merge smaller sized guest rooms into larger suites that offer separate living room and bedroom areas, large bathrooms with a walk-in shower and double faucets and sinks.'

With Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony occupancy reduced to 740 and 606 passengers respectively, travelers can choose among a variety of accommodations include two new guest room categories – the Junior Crystal Penthouse Suite and Single Guest Room with Ocean View. There also will be more Sapphire suites.

Studio Ibsen

Project architect Adriana Granato, adjunct professor of architecture at Politecnico di Milano and of Studio Ibsen, led the team that created renderings of the new guest rooms and suites. She also traveled to a quarry in the Italian Alps to choose the Fior di Pesco marble slabs, also known as peach flower, for the refurbishment.

Granato expressed her excitement about seeing the renderings come to life when Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony take to the water.

The highest quality linen from Italy's Jesurum 1870 uses the bespoke Carol collection wih its embroidered undulating, ogee-inspired border

Jesurum 1870 linens

Suites will offer a custom-made collection of the highest quality linen from Italy's Jesurum 1870. For more than 150 years, the company has woven exclusive linens for clients including royalty and mega-yachts. Crystal is the first in cruising to work exclusively with the Venice-born brand.

Travelers in Aquamarine suites and above will have bedding from the bespoke Carol collection with an embroidered undulating, ogee-inspired border. This was selected for its resemblance to Crystal’s logo.

'The elegant accommodations combined with our delicate bed linens will be sure to offer the perfect night’s sleep to Crystal guests,' said Paola Cimolai, CEO of Jesurum 1870.

La Bottega amenities

In collaboration with La Bottega, a renowned hospitality curator for in-room amenities, Ortigia was tapped to supply soap and fragrance products. Ortigia, founded in Sicily, uses the soft and delicate scents reminiscent of the island's spring wildflowers with 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 on board our Crystal ships,' Levis said. 'We are also working on a second alternative line that will be available in 2024.'