Before & After: The Marco Polo Cruise Terminal gets a refreshing new look!

The Marco Polo Cruise Terminal has secured its place as one of Saint John’s most popular event venues. It has ample space and great views of the harbour but there was one recurring issue clients had with the space, the decor. The terminal had a colour palette that made it incompatible with the decor of many of the events it hosted.

Emily Teed, Venues Coordinator at Port Saint John, said “Our clients have told us that the existing colour was hard to work with. We wanted to act on that feedback, and give them a more neutral space – but we also wanted to blend in with the surroundings of our neighbourhood in an historic but also contemporary way.”

With that Emily and the team at Port Saint John reached out to us here at PUNCH INSIDE.  We had a vision for the new colour scheme, which included enhancing the wood paneling, polished concrete floor and blue ceiling that was already in place. The new design would reference that of bright and airy Scandinavian airport terminals that mix white with natural textures of wood, concrete and glass.

BEFORE:

The wall colour was dark and dated and was not the simple backdrop clients were looking for.

AFTER:

With the new colour scheme, the terminal is now has a minimalist backdrop which will accommodate a wide variety of event décor styles, and result in better on-site photography. It will also create a soothing, modern environment for cruise passenger reception.

Above is our colour scheme for the Marco Polo terminal.
A: Existing ceiling colour. The new palette had to work with this shade, since it wasn’t changing.  (Major Tom:  (procraft)
B: All columns, the wall area above the wood in the main foyer, and all window/door trim in that area too. (Wrought Iron 2124-10 Benjamin Moore)
C: The wall area in the back entrance, washroom hallway areas. (Deep Silver 2124-30 Benjamin Moore)
D: Wall area and trim above wood in the main terminal area. (Oxford White CC-30 Benjamin Moore)

“It’s no secret that I am an ambassador of white in design,” says Mackin.  “But it really is a great fit for this project. In large spaces like Marco Polo terminal, colour needs to be downplayed. When the building is in use, it’s full of visitors and guests. The focus should be on what’s happening in the room, or on the beautiful views of our harbour and cityscape – not on the walls.”

Painting: Tim Desmond

Be sure to book your next event now!

Thank you to Port Saint John for this opportunity to enhance their beautiful terminal.