During our 60 year history, we have been privileged to work on some unusual and prestigious projects and are proud to add to our portfolio the interior design and furnishings installation on board the Hebridean Princess.

We are delighted to have just completed the transformation of four areas on this beautiful ship: The Lounge Bar, Library, Conservatory and Lookout Lounge.

The brief for the project was clear, each of the areas was to retain it’s own individual character whilst complimenting the already prominent style, luxury and quality onboard the ship.

Whilst keeping this in mind it was also important to consider the practical side of the design process. The need to maximise the available space in each area, whilst paying particular attention to delivering the best possible comfort for every passenger was paramount.

Working on such an unusual project as a ship meant working to important time scales. As the vessel is sailing throughout the year and only out of action for a few months we were certain to get it ship shape and ready to sail again in time for the passengers to enjoy their first cruise of the season.

After meeting with the client on board the ship we got to work on creating furniture layouts, colour schemes and fabric combinations to portray our designs and concepts to transform the interiors. Once discussed and agreed with our clients we proceeded swiftly with placing orders and confirming with our manufacturers the timescales to be met in order to ensure installation dates as required.

As much as we enjoy the design side of our contract projects the technical element of the interior fit out of the ship was also very interesting. There are particular fire standards that must be adhered to to meet IMO (International Maritime Organisation) Fire Standards and all fabrics, even those for cushions, were tested and if required chemically treated to ensure the required fire safety regulations on board.

It is a remarkable testament to the relationships we have with some of the finest furniture manufacturers in the country as the majority of the furniture supplied for the Hebridean Princess was bespoke, manufactured to specific sizes and delivered within the challenging timescale.

The result is stunning! In the main lounge we were eager to ensure that we achieved an established feel, as if it were the original interior, but with the comfort and flexibility of modern manufacturing. We were also keen to portray a “Scottish” feel as it is after all, a scottish vessel! However we aimed to achieve this in a subtle way without overuse of plaids of tartans. We therefore chose to intersperse some rich, wool plaids from manufacturers such as Johnstons Of Elgin and Harris Tweed with unusual, textured fabrics in complimenting colours.  We are confident that we have created a truly cosy and welcoming interior that provides many intimate areas for the passengers focusing around the main focal point; the original fireplace.

In the Library, we have created a more masculine feel, using leather, unique upholstery and dark woods. There is also a quirky feel to the library with the introduction of some interesting furniture pieces making it a lovely room in which to relax, read or perhaps partake in some on the games available to play on the unique games table.

The soft tones furnishing the Look out Lounge flow seamlessly from the colour palette in the foyer areas creating a relaxing space to take in the stunning views. In contrast to the Main Lounge, we have used a simple, two tone, colour palette to create a beautifully simple space.

Painted, rattan furniture brings a casual feel to the Conservatory. The natural look has been complemented by the wooden troughs, filled with greenery and the beautifully restored teak flooring. A wonderfully calm space to take in the scenery!

We are delighted to be working with the team aboard the Hebridean Princess and helping them achieve the level of service and passenger comfort for which they are well known. We are also confident that those who sail will have a relaxing time in pleasant surroundings on board.

We have a short video featuring Ken Charleson, Chief Operating Officer at Hebridean Island Cruises, and Bruce Dick, Managing Director at John Dick & Son talking about the project.  Below the video you can view our gallery of images taken onboard the Hebridean Princess.

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