TITANIC BELFAST COMPLETES FIRST PHASE OF EVENTS SPACE INVESTMENT

Titanic Belfast has announced the completion of 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, which will be delivered in phases across the Level 5 and 6 event and hospitality spaces, has started with the transformation of the Titanic Suite, home to the famous replica Grand Staircase. 

The investment follows continued growth in Titanic Belfast’s events business, which has 60 domestic, national and international events scheduled to take place between September and December. 

Titanic Belfast worked in partnership with Garuda Design, led by Suzanne Garuda, on the project, which has included new bespoke carpet, wall panelling, joinery and curtains, LED screens and a series of new design features including an Irish linen wallcovering and a striking new colour palette of blues, golds and neutrals introduced across the refreshed interiors. 

The overall scheme draws on the architecture of the world-famous visitor attraction and decorative features associated with RMS Titanic. 

A bespoke Irish linen wallcovering has also been created by a third-generation decorator whose grandfather worked on the ship, providing a direct link to Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage and local craftsmanship. 

The new carpet has been inspired by the angular shape and scale of the building with geometric patterns influenced by decorative flooring found aboard RMS Titanic. Art Nouveau and Art Deco references have also been incorporated into the design, alongside more contemporary detailing. 

New wall panelling and joinery have been designed to reflect the scale and richness of traditional timber detailing, while large bas-relief panels feature significant moments in the timeline of RMS Titanic. 

New LED screens have been introduced to improve wayfinding through the event spaces. In the North Viewing Gallery, overlooking the historic slipways, a compass detail has been inlaid into the timber floor beneath a twinkling starlit sky, creating a further 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 said:

“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.