| A
Floating Palace |
 |
 First
Class accommodations were undoubtedly the most celebrated on Titanic
and what truly established her majesty. The opulence was visible
everywhere in the architecture and appointments. Moreover, such premier
luxuries seemed without end. Titanic featured a gymnasium, tennis
courts, a swimming pool, Turkish and electric baths, a dark room for
photographers, kennels for First Class dogs, elevators (an innovation for
the period) private enclosed promenades and nearly a dozen styles of
Staterooms, all of which attracted attention and millionaire passengers. The
Shipbuilder magazine commented, "Indeed everything has been done
in regard to the furniture and fittings to make the first-class
accommodation more than equal to that provided in the finest hotels on
shore." |
 First
Class public rooms were as well without compromise, where notables enjoyed
passing their time. The First Class Smoking Room was one such area, along
with the À La Carte restaurant, the Verandah Café, and the charming Café
Parisien which was unique to Titanic. First Class passengers
could relax for tea or coffee in the café, with the French waiters and
ambiance. The First Class Lounge was also inspired by the French. In Louis
XV style, it was modeled after the Palace of Versailles, and included a
miniature statue of the famed Artemis of Versailles on one the mantelpiece
above a fireplace. |
 Perhaps
the most notable element of First Class however was the forward Grand
Staircase. The center of First Class activity, the staircase was adorned
at the top with a glass and wrought iron skylight. Generous polished oak
included an intricate carved panel housing a clock surrounded by the
classical figures Honor and Glory. The elaborate balustrade was also in
oak and at the foot of the stairway was a bronze cherub statuette holding
a lamp, leading to the First Class reception. Passengers would meet in the
Reception Room before dinner and would of course do all in their means to
look their best. |
