Oslo-based YSA Design has redesigned interior spaces on a luxury cruise ship.
Hurtigruten’s ‘Trollfjord’ underwent a substantial upgrade to meet expectations for future sustainability, while catering for the owner’s 130-year heritage of stylish cruising.
In June, ’Trollfjord’ began sailing along the ‘Svalbard Express’ route that Hurtigruten sustained from 1968 to 1982 as a passenger and mail-boat link to the Svalbard archipelago.
This year’s first calls launch a full season of cruising that takes in the world’s most northerly inhabited towns.
In an upgrade that also features the use of sustainable power and propulsion technologies on board a ship built in 2002, the 500-guest capacity ’Trollfjord’ is “reborn for modern cruising while embodying the heritage of this iconic route,” said Fabiana Vale Dornelas, Senior Interior Architect and Head of Sustainability & Implementation, YSA Design.
YSA Design conceived, refined and project managed delivery of interior stylings on board the 16,140 gt vessel’s three main restaurants, all cabins and suites, and the conversion of the two-storey upper-deck lounge into the panoramic 1893 Bar, plus sun deck area.
The designer sought to create ship spaces that encapsulate Norway’s past, present, and future, in a blend of modern Scandinavian design, nostalgic flourishes from the golden era of small-ship sailing, and heritage-led choices to incorporate the artistry of the northerly Sámi people.
“From the spatial planning of the restaurant areas, to the carefully chosen décor, the retro menus and the inspirations provided by local cultures, every detail contributes to the immersive experience, combining the charm of the past with modern sophistication,” added Vale Dornelas.
Sámi traditionally manufacture articles for everyday use from raw materials available from their surroundings, she said. This ethos was claimed to be fully echoed on board ’Trollfjord’, where hard-wearing, locally sourced natural materials, such as wool, wood and stone, feature prominently throughout.
The mix of modern and heritage styles runs throughout suites and cabins, where YSA Design used natural textures and warm tones to create a cosy but contemporary feel.
Hurtigruten’s itinerary foresees ’Trollfjord’ engaging with communities through longer stopovers, so that guests experience the rich surrounding heritage.
Vale Dornelas emphasised how “story-telling details” are reflected in cabin furnishings, which feature Sámi fabric patterns and stitching techniques.
“All along, our aim has been to deliver the style and comfort the modern cruise audience expects while honouring the historic identity of the Svalbard Express to revive the ship’s essence, celebrate Sámi culture and heritage, and embody the sustainable principles of the owner,” she said.
