Cabins & Public Areas – Celestyal Cruises – Celestyal Discovery
Submitted by: AMK Architecture and Design
Lead Designer: Marina Philippides, AMK Architecture and Design
In 2024, AMK Architecture & Design undertook the ambitious project of completely refitting and redesigning the cruise ship, Celestyal Discovery. This was more than a refurbishment; it was a total transformation aimed at bringing the ship in line with contemporary expectations of elegance and functionality. AMK redefined the vessel, infusing it with Celestyal’s brand philosophy while incorporating Mediterranean aesthetics through thoughtful use of colors, textures, and design elements.
When AMK took over the ship, the existing interior was a chaotic blend of disjointed styles. The clashing colors of yellow, orange, and light blue dominated, and palm trees, oversized human sculptures, and random bridges disrupted the visual flow. There was no architectural harmony, and the lack of design continuity made the space feel overwhelming. Every surface required attention, and the design team was tasked with reimagining the ship from top to bottom. AMK’s challenge was to conceal these outdated elements while introducing a fresh, cohesive look. This required creativity and innovation, from revamping the color palette and selecting appropriate materials to improving the layout and circulation of spaces. The goal was to ensure that each space felt unified and aligned with a modern, sophisticated vision.
The refit took place in Lavrio, Greece, from December 2023 to mid-March 2024, a remarkably short period of less than four months. Typically, a project of this scale requires six to nine months, making time management and work coordination crucial. The first three weeks focused on selecting the ship’s color concept and designing the carpets, ensuring timely delivery. Concurrently, new spaces and functions were designed, and during the demolition phase, construction plans and FF&E specifications advanced. Constant adjustments were made to secure available materials, fabrics, and finishes.
The project was completed on time, thanks to the excellent collaboration between AMK, Celestyal, and all contributors. AMK also introduced a fresh visual identity for the ship, adding to Celestyal’s branding. The transformation was impressive, turning disjointed spaces into elegant and functional environments. Celestyal Discovery now offers passengers a sophisticated and enjoyable experience, showcasing AMK’s expertise in overcoming complex design challenges.
