Internationally renowned interior designer and educator awarded honorary degree

Hans J. Galutera is a globally renowned interior designer with experience in the art and science of enhancing interior, especially the space of retail and hospitality venues to achieve a safer, healthier and more aesthetically pleasing architectural interior design.  

His experience extends to maritime hospitality design including onboard Royal Caribbean International’s Enchantment of the Seas - the first ever lengthening project of a ship cut in half and re-joined to create revenue generating spaces for the second biggest cruise line of the world.

Other projects of his include; signature restaurants created for celebrity chefs such as Michel Roux on Celebrity Cruises Specialty Restaurants and Michael Schwartz on Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas just to name a few.

His Penthouse Suite designs include the award-winning Celebrity Cruises Reflection of the Seas which was recognised by the Society of British and International Design annual awards event at the House of Lords in London, UK. 

His outstanding contribution to the world of design has been recognised by the International Council for Caring Communities, not-for-profit organisation that has Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations.  

Hans is also an educator and frequent speaker at conferences and universities around the world. In 2012, he was appointed New York Chapter President of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), a global organisation supporting design professionals, industry affiliates, educators, students, firms and their clients with a network of 15,000+ members across 58 countries. In addition, he is one of the Board of Directors for the New York State Education and a current Board Member for New York 11 Plus, a not-for-profit corporation.

As one of the Board of Directors for the Interior Design Profession, he serves as one of the regulators of New York State profession's affairs (specifically interior design education and licensure). The State Board has specific responsibilities to regulate industry. He continues to maintain and grow the value of the interior design profession with ongoing outreach with various organizations such as NY11+.

Commenting on the award, Hans said,“I am humbled and privileged to receive this honorary doctorate, its significance speaks greatly to me, and helps inspire me for what I am challenging myself to pursue as my next steps in career and life.

Addressing the graduating students, he said, “You determine your future and life balance, whether it be career advancement, physical and mental wellbeing, and a core with spirituality and kindness. Congratulations again and be proud as the new standards and bearers of the future of design with work and hopefully you can make it play!”