Yesterday we brought you concept art for the three story AquaDunk body slide that will be added to the Disney MAGIC cruise ship when it hits dry dock later this year.  Today I wanted to show you another enhancement that will be made to the vessel while “under construction” from September 7-October 10, 2013 in Cadiz, Spain.

The Atrium

When guests board the Disney Magic, they enter the grand atrium lobby that is redesigned to be “elegant art deco, inspired by elements of the sea,” says Joe Lanzisero, senior creative vice president for Walt Disney Imagineering.

“Filmmaking is the history of our company and in film the ‘establishing shot’ sets the scene,” he says.  “This is the same with the atrium, as we begin telling our story.”

The spacious and spectacular three-deck lobby features hand-tufted, custom-made carpet that dazzles in a palette of vibrant coral, blue and aquamarine seashell-inspired designs.  The art deco atrium chandelier is inspired by rays of the sun and the glisten of the surface of the ocean. Opulent furnishings, a grand piano and giant portholes recall the days of early 20th century ocean liners.

The lobby’s centerpiece is a cold-cast bronze statue of “Helmsman Mickey,” ever-smiling and keeping watch as guests stroll past.  The famed statue, which has stood in the atrium since the ship was launched, will receive a special makeover bringing new luster to its golden hue.

 Have You Sailed on the Disney MAGIC? Are You Excited About the Renovations?