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Length: 1,033 ft | Tonnage: 122,000 GT |
Deck Count: 12 passenger Decks
Master Planning, Architecture, Interior Design, Construction Review, Construction Oversight
One of the most acclaimed of dozens of new cruise ships, Solstice was selected as a Top Large Cruise Ship and best premium cruise line according to Conde Nast Traveler’s 2014 Reader’s Poll. On board Solstice, spaces magically entice passengers to stay and relax, like the elegant solarium and the striking lawn club, its restaurants, entertainment venues and intimate places to hang out.
We envisioned a contemporary, international, and timeless concept for Celebrity Cruise Lines’ premiere vessel. Solstice displays a refined level of elegance, a distinctive statement of style, and design sophistication unparalleled at sea, inspired by the natural elements, and colors of the marine environment.
Connections and way-finding are apparent within the Solstice Grand Foyer on Decks 3 through 5 and extend upward through the atrium. A key element is the connection of three public plazas into a strong horizontal circulation spine. Through the repetition of elements, materials, and massing, Wilson Butler carved out three distinct but connected ‘courts’ around which different venues are organized. The glass enclosed pillars illuminate the three areas: Rendezvous Court, Boulevard of Shops and Entertainment Court much like lanterns in market squares. These elements inform the passengers that they are in the heart of excitement onboard.
The Main Theater onboard Solstice spans three decks in height and effortlessly seats 1,100+ guests. Inspired by the excitement and spectacle of the circus and the whimsical work of Chagall, the entire Main Theatre is transformed into a performance space – without the usual distinction between audience and performers. The theatre’s bright palette of colors and painterly forms move and swirl, as do the performers high above the audience. Glowing blue lighting plays up rich, blue velvet walls, enveloping the interior with an infinite sense of space. The Main Theatre’s most distinguishing feature is the thrust stage that extends into the audience 20 feet beyond the proscenium arch, creating a theatre in the round effect.
The Solarium extends the spa experience on the Celebrity Solstice Resort Deck to adult passengers desiring a calm, cool retreat. The interior has a soft, natural color palette and sits below a glass roof with integrated solar panels that not only supplement the supply of electricity, but also filter in a gentle, natural light. The space is anchored by a waterfall of light and laminar fountain.
Bistro on 5, located appropriately on Deck 5 of Celebrity Solstice, is the ship’s most contemporary restaurant for informal dining. The outside is brought in, with large floor-to -ceiling windows that allow light to stream in and views to be enjoyed from every angle. The design evokes the experience of a European family run bistro offering simplicity in food and decor. Intimacy is created by dividing tables into smaller seating sections. Inspiration from French Impressionism yield a vibrant, yet natural color palette.
The Pool Bar, Mast Grill and Sunset Bar evoke an authentic and natural maritime aesthetic. The Pool Bar, located at the center of the Pool Deck, invites guests to relax in an informal, outdoor social setting overlooking modern, clean-lined pool and Jacuzzis. The Mast Bar located on the starboard side of the Sun Deck, near the shade of trellises offers a cooling respite from the sun. The Sunset Bar, connected by way of the Lawn Club at stern, is integral to the Deck’s ‘Lawn’ activities as a place to relax and have a drink or two after a competitive game of bocce. It is also the perfect spot to watch the sunset.
The Lawn Club at stern is the distinguishing feature of the Solstice Class ships. A revolutionary floating lawn, it is composed of real grass that is tough enough to survive the Caribbean sun and salt air, and gentle enough for bare feet and a picnic. It provides true escapism on board a cruise ship. The Lawn activities include putting practice, bocce, croquet, and relaxation areas such as hammocks and private cabanas on the main green. This is the perfect spot to revel in the sunset.
In the open air of the Lawn Club, integrating views of the sea, grass and earth underfoot, we realized the only missing element was fire. As if the Lawn Club was not special enough, we collaborated with the prestigious Corning Museum of Glass to design the first glassblowing studio at sea. Facing the main green and en plein air, the show features live demonstrations and performances by the resident masters (called gaffers) and glassblowing artists. Passengers can experience a hands-on technique class; engage in conversation on the history of glassblowing, or simply experience glass arts inspired by the Solstice environment and its cultural destinations.
The Lawn Club brings whimsy and play to relaxation and respite in a sophisticated manner. The lush, green and never-before on a ship Lawn Club has become a marvel for passengers, travel press and the cruise line industry. Oh, and there are those big Adirondack chairs too – who doesn’t want to feel like a kid again!