Acclaimed designer, author and proprietor of Kelly Hoppen Interiors, Kelly Hoppen joined the Revolution by collaborating with Celebrity Cruises® on a fresh, innovative and exciting design for the entire Celebrity fleet.
Here, we speak to Kelly about her exciting partnership with Celebrity, her passion for design and what you can look forward to as you too join the Celebrity Revolution…
Hi Kelly! Are you able to tell us a bit about your unique partnership with Celebrity Cruises?
Celebrity Cruises approached me a few years ago asking me to design the interiors of their newest ship at the time, Celebrity Edge. They wanted the designs to make a bold, modern statement and make a splash in the industry. I couldn’t resist the opportunity and threw myself wholeheartedly into the project.
Your revolutionary design work on Celebrity Edge has brought innovation and intrigue to the cruise industry. Where does one begin when conceptualising cruise ship design?
I had a number of meetings with Celebrity Cruises so I could really understand their values and vision, and together we worked to create groundbreaking designs that would make sea travel a luxury experience.
One of the biggest considerations when designing a cruise ship is space and storage. These ships have a huge number of rooms on board and each one is meticulously designed with a space and spot for everything. With the skeleton already in place, my role was to layer the room with luxurious touches and finishes so guests experience the perfect mix of form and function.
What were the main challenges you faced transitioning from interior design to cruise ship design?
Given the unpredictable nature of the sea, my designs had to withstand every up and down a ship might face. I worked closely with Celebrity’s technical team to ensure the designs were safe and functional, as well as beautiful and luxurious.
The project forced me to ask questions I hadn’t needed to before – if we face rough seas will this piece of furniture move? Will that chandelier sway too much? It was thrilling to work with such unique challenges and push myself to find solutions.
Celebrity Edge looks absolutely stunning. Are you able to tell us a bit about where your design inspiration came from?
My designs, whether at sea or on land, always stay true to my signature East meets West style which balances clean lines and neutral tones with warmth and sumptuous opulence. I wanted the suites to have a timeless feel and exude elegance and a sense of serenity and calm, so that guests could really relax while on board.
I also added an extra special touch to some of the suites with unique pieces of art and furniture, including a trunk found on my own travels, to give guests a special and memorable time on board.
Some of Celebrity Edge’s more radical design elements, such as the Magic Carpet, have not been seen at sea before. What are your thoughts on these unique innovations?
The Magic Carpet was the world’s first cantilevered deck and has to be seen to be believed, it’s truly incredible. I was so impressed by Celebrity’s willingness and eagerness to push design boundaries on Edge through features like this – it’s no easy feat.
I designed the interiors for the Magic Carpet and whilst the bright orange isn’t one typically in my repertoire, I used greys and blacks alongside textures and different materials to create a really inviting space to encourage guests to enjoy and experience these design-led spaces.
Celebrity Cruises are working towards their Celebrity Revolution. How does it feel to see your designs rolled out across the fleet?
It feels amazing; I had never cruised before partnering with Celebrity Cruises so seeing my stamp on a whole fleet of ships is remarkable. We are launching the next cruise ship, Celebrity Apex next spring which I’m really excited about.
What do you think will be Celebrity Cruises guest's favourite on board innovations?
The Spa on board is a very special space - a sanctuary and safe cocoon. The space was designed to create an environment that was both in harmony with nature and undeniably luxurious. You’ll walk out a different person!
Do you have any top tips for Celebrity Cruises guests to make the most out of the uniquely designed spaces on board?
The best thing you can do is to explore all that’s on offer – you could walk around all day long and still not see everything on board. However, you will be on holiday after all so don’t forget to factor in time for rest and relaxation, whether that’s in your room or in one of the lounges.
