Onda by Scarpetta

Bringing the beloved Italian restaurant brand Onda by Scarpetta to life on the high seas aboard Norwegian Cruise Lines Prima (and sister ship Viva) meant reimagining familiar feelings of place, taste, and togetherness for an entirely new context. DADO designed the space to be a rich sensory experience rooted in architectural gestures and material choices that celebrate connection and contrast. Walnut and Calacatta Gold marble ground the space in natural warmth, while a layout shaped around community encourages spontaneous moments of conversation and shared discovery. The atmosphere feels both intimate and expansive, refined yet relaxed, where contemporary Italian design meets the vibrant pulse of a Manhattan evening.

At the heart of the space is a ceiling that impresses visually and stirs memory and emotion. Inspired by Italy’s architectural and engineering legacy, it folds history into the present. Ferrari front grills echo in arching forms, rustic stone textures dissolve into mirrored finishes, and Pompeii-inspired patterns ripple across the floors in sleek, modern interpretations. These transformations are not simply aesthetic. They tap into the emotional resonance of Italian culture, capturing its energy and enduring elegance.