ASUKA Plaza – NYK Cruises – ASUKA III

Submitted by: Kate Porteous
Lead Designer: Emily Purton
Studio: SMC Design
Outfitter: Dula
Shipyard: Meyer Werft
Completion Date: 01/07/2025

ASUKA III, NYK Cruises’ first newbuild in over 30 years, set sail on her maiden voyage in July 2025. At 52,265GT with 381 guest rooms, the ship was 5 years in the making. SMC Design were involved from the very beginning, appointed as sole architect responsible for interiors, exterior public spaces, artwork, branding, signage & wayfinding. SMC established a great working relationship with NYK Cruises to ensure every detail delivered to their brief – balancing cultural authenticity with international appeal. That unique level of creative control allowed us to craft a seamless guest experience across every touchpoint, from suite to sundeck.

The brief was to deliver a residential feel: spaces that are luxurious yet comfortable, welcoming and elegant. Across the ship each venue has its own character, but recurring motifs create cohesion and reinforce the ASUKA identity.
The ASUKA Plaza is the ultimate expression of this philosophy. As the ship’s social and emotional heart, it was designed it to be a place to gather, connect and admire – a true public space enjoyed by all. Spanning 3 decks, the ASUKA Plaza avoids the static symmetry of a conventional atrium. Instead, asymmetry is used to create movement and varying perspectives, encouraging guests to linger and return.
To make it a living hub, cafés and retail areas combine with gallery space and both social and secluded seating areas to offer a multitude of experiences within a collaborative venue. These ensure the ASUKA Plaza is not only a striking vertical space but also a destination for relaxation, conversation & discovery.

At its centre is a specially commissioned artwork by celebrated Japanese artist Kazumi Murose, brought to the project by NYK Cruises. Stretching over 9m in height, SMC carefully designed the ASUKA Plaza with the artwork as its centrepiece, creating multiple viewing opportunities within the architecture so that guests can experience the artwork from shifting perspectives as they move through the space, making every encounter memorable.
The cantilevered glass staircase was developed to work in harmony with the artwork, acting as both a unique feature and an opportunity to experience the delicate hand-crafted artwork close-up.
To soften scale and bring a residential warmth, textured timbers, elegant marbles and accents in kokihanada blue & Aokin bluish gold are layered throughout. These finishes not only celebrate Japanese craft traditions but also provide a connection with the ASUKA brand.