We’re delighted to announce Jennie Drummond’s promotion to Associate at SMC Design.
As Head of Art, Jennie leads SMC Art Consultancy, overseeing the development of bespoke art strategies from initial concept and artist commissioning through to procurement and final installation. Working closely with clients, artists and the wider SMC team, she ensures every collection strengthens the identity, character, and sense of place behind a project.
Jennie has contributed to projects worldwide, including the extensive art collection aboard AROYA. Featuring more than 2,600 artworks, the collection celebrates Saudi Arabia’s culture, landscapes and creative talent, with 65% of the works created by Saudi artists.
This promotion recognises Jennie’s creative leadership and the significant contribution she makes to our studio, our clients and projects around the world.
Andrew Brown, Managing Director, comments:
“Jennie has been an integral part of SMC and we’re delighted to see her promoted to Associate. As Head of Art, Jennie has led the department, shaping the creative quality and attention to detail that sit at the heart of so many of our projects.
“Her experience, creativity and commitment have made a lasting contribution to the brand, and this promotion is very well deserved. Congratulations, Jennie.”
As lead architect, SMC Design transformed the world’s largest cruise refurbishments into the first authentically Arabian cruise experience at sea. From architecture and interior design to FF&E, artwork, wayfinding and storytelling, every space was created to celebrate Saudi identity on a truly unprecedented scale.
Projects of this magnitude don’t happen by chance. They demand vision, trust, technical excellence and a team capable of delivering world-class design across thousands of spaces, all while creating an experience that feels deeply authentic.
At SMC Design, we believe the future of hospitality isn’t about designing beautiful interiors. It’s about creating destinations with meaning.
Read the Architectural Digest Middle East feature
Designed and built by Meyer Werft for NYK Cruises, the vessel has been recognised for its outstanding execution, attention to detail and the collaborative approach that underpinned its delivery. Tailored specifically for the Japanese market, Asuka III demonstrates how thoughtful design, technical excellence and close partnership can combine to create an exceptional guest experience at sea.
As part of the project, SMC Design delivered a range of hospitality, wellness and accommodation environments, helping to create spaces that balance comfort, wellbeing and a strong sense of place throughout the vessel. Every area was developed with a focus on enhancing the onboard experience while supporting the high standards established for the project from the outset.
The award, presented by HANSA, recognises ships that demonstrate innovation, quality and excellence in design, engineering and delivery. Asuka III joins a distinguished list of previous winners and represents another significant achievement for Meyer Werft and the wider project team.
Recognition goes to the many talented people across our design, art, branding and project management teams whose expertise helped bring SMC Design’s contribution to life.
We congratulate Meyer Werft, NYK Cruises and all project partners on this well-deserved recognition.
SMC Design is pleased to announce that Andy Yuill, the owner, will be speaking at the Design Deck sessions on day one of the Cruise Ship Interiors Expo in Miami, 9-10 June 2026, joined by Liz Richardson, Senior Interior Design Associate, and Elspeth Dally, Senior FF&E Designer.
The team will discuss how SMC Design approaches evolving cruise hospitality briefs, from leading full newbuild and refurbishment projects to collaborating with wider design and architectural teams on select spaces. The session will also highlight experience working with leading cruise brands including NYK Cruises, Aroya Cruises, MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line.
The presentation will take place:
Tuesday 9 June
11:30am – 11:55am
Design Deck
We look forward to sharing insights and connecting with industry.
Liz Richardson (left), Elspeth Dally (right)
Attending the event? Get in touch to arrange a meeting with the team whilst we’re in Miami.