Analysis of design in a modern cruiseliner

Shown above is the modern cruiseliner The Independence of the Seas, an object of nearly inconceivable complexity whose design incorporates state-of-the-art engineering and whose main purpose is to provide pleasure to its passengers. This presumably includes aesthetic pleasure. It is interesting to consider whether a modern cruiseliner – the result of thousands of individual designers’, builders’ and engineers’ cooperative labours – could have design integrity.

A working definition of design integrity is:

• A coherent colour scheme
• Functional convergence
• Explicit structure.

The exterior of the craft uses familiar cues from the science of aerodynamics to suggest – for no clear reason in what is functionally a transportable block of apartments with a maximum velocity of 22 knots – an impression of extreme speed. The uniformity of colour adds to an impression of a vehicle designed as a single unit for high-speed, futuristic travel.

In the atrium-like space shown below, called the ‘Royal Promenade’, the sense of unity gained from the ship’s exterior disappears. Façadism reigns over a mall-like ambience confected from candy-coloured lighting; vague references to 19th-century market streets; and imitation shopfronts that incorporate false wood finishes, functionally useless and culturally alienated striped awnings and neon signage.





























I would direct the student of design seeking examples of design integrity on a cruiseliner to look at the engine room.