The Grand Lobby – Cunard – Queen Anne

Submitted by: David Collins Studio
Lead Designer: Lewis Taylor, David Collins Studio
Completion Date: 03/05/2024

An impressive triple-height central atrium space across decks 1 – 3, the Grand Lobby sits at the heart of the ship. The space evolves and unravels as guests journey through, with opportunities to sit and relax, meet fellow passengers, take photos or enjoy a drink at the adjoining Lobby Bar, Chart Room or Carinthia Lounge, with sea view conservatory.

The central sweeping staircase is carpeted in royal blue with red trim, in a twist on the traditional red carpet found in the Grand Lobby onboard other Cunard ships. The handrail is crafted in polished walnut, with contemporary brass studs and stainless-steel uprights, inspired by shipbuilding rivets.

A lenticular brass fin triptych mural by Canadian artist Ian Kirkpatrick, curated by Double Decker, provides a feature backdrop to the staircase, where guests traditionally take photographs. Entitled ‘A Cunard Journey’, the mural is an Art Deco celebration of the golden age of liner travel, acid etched, and laser cut into three-sided metal panels.

David Collins Studio designed a bespoke geometric marble floor in monochromatic concentric circles, also inspired by Art Deco vernacular. The ceiling features an entirely bespoke design, with custom three-dimensional woven plaster lattice work and central gold finial.

Each deck has a slightly different purpose and feel. Deck 3 is bright, with a giant starburst design. An overhanging balcony at the top of the stairs on deck 3 provides a photo opportunity. Each deck is also illuminated to the underside edge.

Four triple height bronze metal columns frame the highly polished staircase and are pressed with a liquid metal artwork, inspired by the forms of traditional sails and ships hulls. The deck void edges feature a scratched plaster finish with Art Deco-inspired relief.

Bespoke armchairs are upholstered in red and blue velvets, whilst banquette seating is realised in gold fabric and navy-blue textured leather – tones chosen to connect with the Cunard branding.
In the centre of the Grand Lobby, curated by Double Decker, is a 2.3-meter-tall feature sculpture by interdisciplinary metal sculptors Zieta Studio. Realised in highly polished steel, the sculpture’s form is inspired by the curvature of a ship’s propeller. Additional sculptures are displayed on plinths within niches around the space, inspired by locations on Cunard’s routes (the Caribbean, Arctic, Mediterranean and Baltic Seas).