Costa Cruises has appointed New York-based hospitality designer Adam D. Tihany as creative director for the two new ships, powered with Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), scheduled for delivery in 2019 and 2020. Tihany is also the designer behind the latest two Seabourn ships, the Encore and Ovation.

Under Tihany’s leadership, Costa will assemble a group of designers to execute the vision for the next generation of ships inspired by “Italy’s Finest,” said Costa in a statement.

“It is a rare honor to narrate a design story from the director’s chair,” Tihany said. “The fact that this opportunity creates a partnership with Costa Cruises is all the more extraordinary. The phrase “Italy’s Finest” not only describes the design concept, but wholly embodies the Costa brand.”

“We are fortunate to have Mr. Tihany, the world’s preeminent hospitality designer, as creative director for our next-generation ships,” said Neil Palomba, President of Costa Cruises. “Italy’s finest” concept represents the roots and the identity of Costa Cruises. It deals with the best things that our Country has to offer: passion, quality, hospitality and, of course, style. I am confident that Mr. Tihany will create a unique style for our new ships, that will help us to offer our guests unforgettable and happy holidays.”