SMC Design awarded Design Team of the Year & Best Wellness Space at CSI 2025

SMC Design AROYA Project Team

The AROYA project is the most ambitious undertaking in our studio’s history and we are proud that the SMC Design AROYA Project Team has been recognised as Design Team of the Year.
Delivering concept designs for all areas within three months, followed by three months of detailed drawings, required exceptional collaboration across our studio and global partners. More than 40 designers worked across multiple disciplines including interiors, FF&E, artwork, branding and wayfinding to realise a unified vision for the Saudi market.
The resulting design language celebrates Saudi identity in a contemporary way and offers an experience that is both distinctive and internationally welcoming.
The success of AROYA was made possible through the collective efforts of Cruise Saudi, AROYA Cruises, and our supply chain and outfitters including MJM Marine, DeWave, Trimline and Mivan.
This award is a testament to the dedication, creativity and resilience of our team and collaborators.

Grand Spa, NYK Cruises | ASUKA III

The Grand Spa aboard ASUKA III was designed as a serene retreat where guests can reconnect with calm, nature and the sea. Positioned high on the upper decks, the space is wrapped in full height glazing that opens up uninterrupted 180-degree ocean views. This immersion in natural light and water shaped the entire design approach.
The interior unfolds as a restorative journey. Simple geometry, natural textures and quiet transitions create an atmosphere of deep tranquility while discreet lighting provides a gentle sense of rhythm and balance. The wellness experience includes indoor and outdoor baths, individual washing stations and multi-sensory showers, with a glass walled sauna that offers expansive sea views.
To ensure cultural authenticity, our design team visited Japan to study onsen traditions and the significance of yudō. This research shaped both the functional requirements and the rituals embedded throughout the space. The result is a holistic wellness environment that honours Japanese heritage in a contemporary luxury setting.
The Grand Spa sets a new benchmark for wellbeing aboard ASUKA III and we are delighted to see it recognised at the CSI Awards.

A milestone moment for SMC Design

These awards reflect the depth of creativity within SMC Design and our commitment to creating meaningful guest experiences shaped by culture, craft and place. We congratulate all winners and finalists at this year’s CSI Awards and extend our thanks to the clients and partners who made these achievements possible.