Design and theme go hand in hand. If it's a failure of theme, then it's a failure of design.
Themed doesn’t mean filled with stuff. Very simple, minimalist design without much decoration, ornament or props can be highly themed and more themed than a space filled with lots of ornament and props. The success of theme is relative to the story being told.The biggest theme park in the UK is Alton Towers, back in 1996 they opened a hotel, with an Edwardian Explorer/Inventor theme.
This is an original room, subtle touches and framed artwork showing his inventions
Recently some rooms got "upgraded" to a Moon Voyage theme, which are in my opinion too garish and over the top, but are much more themed.
I know which I would rather stay in, and I feel the same about Disney rooms, there doesn't need to be bright theming on every surface.
The failure of this resort’s design isn’t in the lack of 3 Caballeros pictures on the walls though.
Less is only more if it is appropriate to the story. You’re photos are not really an example of “less is more” in regards to themed design but the difference between themed experience and themed decor. The first photo places you within an idea but the second one does not. The space room is a lot of stuff and images that remind one of Space, but it does not really place you there. It’s the difference between building the Batcave and filling a room with Batman memorabilia. Both may be described as a ‘Batman themed room’ but vastly different in how they function as a space.
Who has said anything implying anything close to that?
I've read a few comments that Gran Destino doesn't tell a story. I guess I'm not understanding what stories the resorts are supposed to be telling.
The contemporary is about the only Disney resort you could try to make that argument with. Which is likely why you chose to use that as your example. Most Disney resorts due tell a story and certainly exhibit themed design and placemaking.
Okay, then what's the story of the Boardwalk, beyond "staying on the beach at Atlantic City" or Pop Century besides "boy, that's a big bowling pin?"
Story in the context of themed entertainment does not exclusively mean linear narrative.
The one at Alton Towers? It is not more or better themed. It just has more stuff.
Then, what's the non-linear narrative to the Boardwalk?
They absolutely can and in many cases do. As was pointed out story doesn’t necessarily have to be a linear narrative in this case.
No. Larping is not for Dan.
Of course there is. It’s silly to suggest otherwise. Weird we are agreeing. Cheers
