Titanic Belfast has completed the first phase of an investment programme in its event spaces, with the iconic Titanic Suite reopening this week following a major refurbishment.
The programme will be delivered in phases across the Level 5 and 6 event and hospitality spaces, beginning with the transformation of the Titanic Suite, home to its famous replica Grand Staircase.
The investment comes as Titanic Belfast’s events business continues to grow, with 60 domestic, national and international events scheduled between September and December.
Titanic Belfast worked with Northern Ireland interior designer Garuda Design, led by Suzanne Garuda, to deliver the refurbishment in partnership with a number of local businesses, including Rainey & Best, McCue, Ulster Carpets and W. Stevenson & Son.
The transformation has introduced bespoke carpet, wall panelling, joinery and curtains, alongside new LED screens and a range of distinctive design details. These include a bespoke Irish linen wallcovering and a fresh palette of blues, golds and neutrals, creating a contemporary look while complementing the character and heritage of the iconic building.
The design draws inspiration from the architecture of the world-famous visitor attraction and the decorative details associated with RMS Titanic, blending historic references with a contemporary finish.
A bespoke Irish linen wallcovering has been created by a third-generation decorator whose grandfather worked on RMS Titanic, providing a direct connection to Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage and local craftsmanship.
The new carpet takes inspiration from the angular form and scale of Titanic Belfast, with geometric patterns influenced by decorative flooring found aboard RMS Titanic. Art Nouveau and Art Deco references have also been incorporated alongside contemporary detailing.
New wall panelling and joinery reflect the scale and richness of traditional timber detailing, while large bas-relief panels depict significant moments from the story of RMS Titanic.
New LED screens have also been installed to improve wayfinding throughout the event spaces. In the North Viewing Gallery, which overlooks the historic slipways, a compass detail has been inlaid into the timber floor beneath a twinkling starlit ceiling, providing another subtle reference to navigation and the story of RMS Titanic.
Judith Owens MBE, chief executive of Titanic Belfast said: “We are thrilled to unveil the results of the first phase of this investment, marking an important milestone in the continued growth of our events business and reflecting our commitment to further strengthening our offering.
“The iconic Titanic Suite is a very special part of Titanic Belfast and the refurbishment has allowed us to make significant improvements to the space while retaining the features and flexibility that have made it one of Northern Ireland’s most popular event venues. We are delighted with the finished result and the partnership with Garuda Design, the local suppliers and tradespeople who have helped bring the refurbishment to life.”
Suzanne Garuda, Garuda Design added: “It has been an honour to help reimagine these spaces within this iconic building. From the outset, we wanted to create an interior that complemented the scale and character of Titanic Belfast, drawing subtle inspiration from the craftsmanship and decorative heritage of RMS Titanic.
“The aim was to respect the heritage while creating a contemporary look and feel for a busy events venue, bringing together bespoke finishes, texture and detail throughout the spaces. The finished design complements the character and scale of Titanic Belfast while giving the spaces a fresh and distinctive new identity.”
The project has been delivered by local businesses including Rainey & Best, McCue, Ulster Carpets and W. Stevenson & Son.
