Posted: 27 May, 2025

SMC Design x Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth on Hotels ByDesign

As part of a landmark refurbishment of Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth, SMC Design has played a pivotal role in reimagining four of the ship’s most iconic public spaces: The Garden Lounge, The Commodore Club, The Grills Lounge and The Queen’s Room. Blending narrative-led design with maritime expertise, SMC brought a fresh perspective while honouring the timeless elegance synonymous with Cunard.

Now, viewers can experience this transformation firsthand in the season premiere of Hotels ByDesign that airs Saturday 31st May on CBS News (New York livestream), with streaming available across the US and internationally. The episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the design journey and features Liz, Sue & Georgia from the SMC Design FF&E team who worked closely on this refit. Scroll down to watch and enjoy the Producer’s Cut.

Designing with Depth and Storytelling

Each space on Queen Elizabeth was thoughtfully updated to reflect Cunard’s heritage while embracing renewed vibrancy and relevance. Drawing from the Art Deco era and inspired by the legacy of iconic women who shaped the Cunard story, SMC’s designs combine layered detail, elegance and narrative richness.

The Garden Lounge draws influence from the famed conservatories of Kew Gardens. A bespoke carpet design referencing botanical seed heads sets the tone for a space that is airy, elegant and enriched with natural textures and deep wood tones.

The Commodore Club honours the prestige of Cunard’s legendary captains. The updated design introduces nautical and uniform-inspired detailing with a fresh oceanic palette - creating a modern, atmospheric space for evening drinks and entertainment.

The Grills Lounge, a hallmark of exclusivity aboard Queen Elizabeth, has been revitalised with rich jewel tones and discreet glamour. Design cues draw from the royal jewellery collection, aligning with the Grills experience of understated luxury.

The Queen’s Room, the ship’s social centrepiece, has been reimagined as a tribute to the gardens of Royal residences. Subtle luminescent tones, heritage fabrics and hand-tufted carpets - symbolising floral borders - bring a renewed sense of elegance, timelessness and celebration.

A Thoughtful Evolution

Reflecting on the project, Liz Richardson, Associate at SMC Design, commented:
Having worked with Cunard for over 25 years, it’s been a pleasure to witness how the brand continues to evolve while staying true to its heritage. This latest chapter reflects a thoughtful look at its history - celebrating not only its legacy but also a broader, more inclusive vision of luxury.
With this refit, SMC Design contributes to a refreshed Queen Elizabeth that is ready to welcome a new generation of guests - gracefully bridging Cunard’s storied past with a vibrant, modern future.

A Floating Icon Reimagined: Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth Makeover

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