2023 – Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My!
A Year of Design Triumphs: 2023 Recap by Big Time Design Studios
Emphasizing innovation and thought leadership in every project the firm touches, Bigtime Design Studios has become one of the top cross-disciplinary design firms in Florida, with both national and international recognition. A seamless combination of Interior Design, experiential design, branding, creativity, fashion and music; Bigtime Design Studios is most known for high concept, high style public space environments. And with dozens of awards across various market sectors, their work in the hospitality space includes Brightline Trains, Carnival Cruise Lines, Bagatelle Dubai, L’Auberge Del Mar, Postcard Inn Beach Resort, Township, Brightline Orlando, The Betsy, Runway 84, The Gabriel, Pani, Rooftop @ 1WLO, Boatyard, Rivertail, Cha
As we bid farewell to 2023, Big Time Design Studios celebrates a year of remarkable achievements and exciting transitions. This year was not just about the projects we completed but also about the growth and evolution of our team and workspace.
Brightline Orlando Train Station: A Landmark in Sustainable Design
This year’s highlight was undoubtedly the Brightline Orlando Train Station, a project that stands as a beacon of modern transit design. Located at Orlando International Airport (MCO), this station is more than just a hub for Brightline’s eco-friendly, intercity rail; it’s a testament to our vision of integrating sustainability with cutting-edge design.
Our approach was holistic, focusing on creating a space that not only facilitates travel but enhances the overall passenger experience. From the moment guests step into the expansive two-story glass atrium of the main entrance, they are immersed in a world where functionality meets elegance. The station’s design features our signature theatrical approach to brand story telling which is both dynamic and inspirational.
Inside, the Mary Mary Bar offers a unique experience with its hand-crafted cocktails and light bites, all enjoyed with a stunning panoramic view of the train platforms. This space, designed to encourage relaxation and enjoyment, allows guests to watch trains arrive and depart in a serene setting. The presence of the split-flap message board is a thoughtful nod to the golden age of rail travel, providing a blend of nostalgia and modernity.
The guest journey is further enriched by the amenities offered throughout the station. Touchless turnstiles and advanced security screening ensure a smooth and hassle-free entrance, while the MRKT PLACE offers a curated retail experience for last-minute shopping needs. The station caters to all types of travelers, from those looking for affordability in the SMART class to those desiring the luxury of the PREMIUM service, complete with complimentary meals, a dedicated lounge, and priority boarding.
Brightline Orlando Station’s design is a collaboration between our team at Big Time Design Studios, architect Sonny Fornoles of Borrelli + Partner, and the dedicated efforts of Gomez Construction Co. This partnership highlights our commitment to excellence, diversity, and the creation of spaces that are not just functional but transformative.
Carnival Cruise Line – Carnival Celebration: An Award-Winning Achievement in Design
Our work with Carnival Cruise Line this past year has been a thrilling journey of creativity and innovation. The design of the Jubilee Bar onboard the Carnival Celebration encapsulates our commitment to excellence and has been an integral part of the ship being honored with the award for “Best Cruise Ship & Yacht Amenities.” This accolade is a testament to our design philosophy, which intertwines functionality with an enriching aesthetic experience.
Embarking on the design journey for the Carnival Celebration was akin to setting sail on uncharted waters, where every wave brimmed with potential and every gust of wind inspired innovation. Our masterpiece, the Jubilee Bar, is a testament to this adventurous spirit—a space where the golden eras of cruising blend seamlessly with the contemporary luxuries sought by today’s travelers.
In creating the Jubilee Bar, we dove deep into the Carnival Cruise Line’s storied past to resurface with treasures that would imbue the space with a sense of heritage and prestige. The design elements we chose are not mere ornaments but storytellers narrating the glorious 50-year voyage of the Carnival fleet. From the mahogany woodworks that whisper tales of the ships of yore to the etched glass partitions that shine with the promise of future voyages, every detail was meticulously crafted to enhance the seafaring saga.
The bar’s ambiance is a celebration of both past and future, achieved through a careful curation of materials and a keen eye for detail. The lighting, neither too stark nor too dim, complements the natural rhythm of the sea, while the seating arrangements invite conviviality and camaraderie, reminiscent of the communal spirit that cruising engenders.
A New Chapter: Our Creative Studio’s New Home
The recognition of the Carnival Celebration is a crowning moment for Big Time Design Studios in 2023, serving as a beacon of our design expertise. As we transition into our new creative studio, ready to embrace the year 2024, we are invigorated by this honor and what it represents for our future endeavors.
Our new studio, ready for 2024, is designed to be a hub of creativity and innovation, reflecting our ethos of pushing the boundaries in design.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our clients, collaborators, and the brilliant team at Big Time Design Studios. Your support and trust have been instrumental in making 2023 a year of extraordinary accomplishments. We look forward to welcoming you to our new studio and embarking on new creative journeys together in 2024 and beyond.
From our newly inaugurated creative studio, we look to the horizon with ambition and excitement. As we transition into the new year, we carry with us the accomplishments of the past and the zeal to craft even more extraordinary experiences. We thank our clients, our partners, and our talented team for a remarkable year, and we invite you all to step into the future with us—a future where design knows no bounds.