For two days, over 3,500 professionals from the marine and hospitality sectors gathered under one roof. The occasion was provided by the Cruise Ship Interiors Design Expo Americas (CSI Americas) and the related Hotel and Resort Design South (HRDS) event, which, together, created a lively and dynamic exhibition at the Miami Beach Convention Centre. Exhibition areas, conferences and talks generated a rich and highly inspiring programme covering the most topical issues in both sectors.
The issue of sustainability remains central to contemporary debates, whether in the cruise ship sector or the hospitality industry. Concrete solutions were offered by the key players at CSI Americas and HRDS: Reliatex, for example, launched a sustainable material, Hyphyn™, a high-performance biodegradable vinyl designed to break down in landfill conditions; Oceanwaste invited visitors to interact with the waste nets on display at its stand; in the Cruise & Ferry Interiors VIP lounge, a selection of eco-friendly materials was showcased in the Sustainable Materials Library, making it easier for sustainability-conscious designers to make responsible choices.
Finally, the Sustainable Design Summit brought together Hilton, Holland America Line, Carnegie and Brightmark for a workshop entitled ‘Breaking the Cycle: How Designers Influence Measurable Sustainable Outcomes’, attended by an audience of decision-makers and suppliers keen to define their brands’ sustainability strategies. How design can create a meaningful experience for guests was the other topic discussed at the two events by their key participants. Yohandal Ruiz, Founding Partner of Studio DADO, joined Steph Armengol and Janice Davidson, from Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises respectively, to share their vision on the cutting edge of the customer experience. Reflecting on their joint work on the Seven Seas Grandeur, the trio identified ‘slow travel’ – a mindful and almost technology-free way of travelling – as a concept that may seem old-fashioned but which actually represents a cornerstone of future-oriented luxury hospitality.
Insights from the world of top-tier hospitality did not end there. Geniane Vasata Tonoli of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts delivered a highly resonant talk on how she acts as a bridge between owners and franchisees, on the essential need for a commercial mindset to operate on a large scale, and on the balance between brand standards and local identity. But there were many speakers from among the major players in the hospitality sector: these included Marriott International, Grupo Vidanta, Hilton, Sandals, The Parker Company, Carroll Adams, Beyer Brown, Wilson Pacific Development, as well as Sonesta International Hotels, Four Seasons, Kobi Karp Architecture and Interior Design, and Palisociety.
Alongside the programme of talks and conferences, ample space was dedicated to exhibitors, who showcased the full spectrum of interior design through innovative concepts, new materials and timeless classics.
