The Studio

Gem is one of the world- leading architecture and interior design firm specialized in ultra-luxury cruise ship design and project management. It's name is based on the initial of architect Giacomo Erasmo Mortola who founded Gem in 1985

In the last 40 years, Gem has played a pioneering role in the cruise industry as coordinating architect and interior designer, designing a several award-winning vessels for a variety of clients leaders in their respective markets.
Today Gem is involved in every level of the design and construction of luxury and premium cruise ships as well as smaller expedition vessels, from the pre-contractual phase until the delivery of the vessel

GEM Design for Cruise Ships - Giacomo Mortola & Lorenzo Mortola

Giacomo Erasmo Mortola

Giacomo Erasmo Mortola graduates in Architecture from the University of Genoa in 1974; in the same year his involvement in the cruise ship industry started with the refurbishment of Sitmar fleet.

In 1985 Arch. Mortola established his own firm Gem; since then, he has created over thirty eight new ships and lead as many refurbishment projects.

In his illustrious career, Arch. Mortola became renowned for his ability to strike the perfect balance between form and function and to blend luxurious aestethics with cutting-edge technologies.

Today Giacomo is at the helm of Gem together with his son Lorenzo.

Lorenzo Mortola

Lorenzo Mortola is an Italian naval architect and Chartered Engineer.

After obtaining a Master degree in Naval Architecture form the University of Southampton he moved in Milan where he completed a second Master degree in Interior Design and started working for renowned architecture and interior design film specialized in hospitality.

In 2012 Lorenzo moved back to Genoa and joined Gem as surveyor for refurbishment projects; in 2016 became involved in new builds as well, focusing mainly on ultra-luxury projects.

Since then he has overseen fourteen multi-million cruise ships refurbishments and seven new building projects. Today Lorenzo is at the helm of Gem together with his father Giacomo

The Team

At Gem, creativity thrives through collaboration within our multidisciplinary team. Comprised of architects, interior designers, engineers, lighting designers, our team brings together a diverse range of expertise to craft one-of-a-kind spaces that seamlessly blend functionality with aesthetics.

Through constant dialogue and exchange of ideas, we leverage each team member's unique perspective to tackle design challenges from every angle. From conceptualization to execution, our collaborative approach ensures that every project benefits from a holistic understanding of naval architecture, interior design, and engineering principles. Together, we transform visions into reality, pushing the boundaries of what can be realized onboard sea-going vessels.