"The Palace" is the main theater on the second Voyager class ship, Explorer of the Seas. It represents part of Wilson Butler Architects' continuing relationship with Royal Caribbean International. While this theatre shares some features with its sister ship, Voyager of the Seas, a few minor changes in the structural steel allowed the design team to create a room with a very different feel. All of the technical innovations from the first project remain, including an orchestra pit lift, video sidewalls disguised as box balconies, a scenic projector, lasers and video, sound and lighting booths, but the layout and the interiors package represent a distinctive departure.

The room is reminiscent of European theatres from the fin-de-siecle period, in detail and material palette. While the seats, the wall coverings and the curtains are rendered in sumptuous fabrics, the wood and metal proscenium, balcony fronts and the side walls provide a striking counterpoint. The result is a room where the rich tactile materials at hand are tempered by the polished, chiseled feel of the space.

Special consultants for the project include theater planners Fisher Dachs Associates, acoustical consultants Jaffe Holden Acoustics, lighting designers Fisher Marantz Stone, Inc., and video designers Boyce Nemec Designs.

Studio B, Explorer of the Seas
Weekend Warrior Sports Bar, Explorer of the Seas

Project Info
Cost: not available
Complete: 2000
Scope: Architecture, Interior Design, Construction Review
Client: Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines
Staff: Scott Butler, AIA; Scott Wilson, AIA; Barbara Sherman, IIDA; Tom Hains

arts / entertainment

cruise ships / hospitality