Bespoke goods and services have always been an important indication of prestige and class. The made-to-measure system began in the fashion industry with tailored suits, dresses, and shoes, and has since transitioned into the homebuilding industry, automotive industry – for example, Rolls- Royce has an entire bespoke division to design your car – and is even trending in the aviation industry. The elite’s newest craze of aero-luxury can be found in the form of an airliner- converted-business-jet and private jet designs. Also known as a big liner or bizjet, firms such as Airbus, Boeing, and Bombardier have already plunged into the industry with their aerial iterations, giving their VIPs a home in the sky.
In a similar fashion to designing a tiny home with limited dimensions, a stripped airplane has a finite amount of space – leaving developers with a creative challenge. In the case of aviation interior design, space optimization is key. Those who can afford to commission this type of the project will likely request similar amenities to those that are available on the ground. These demands can include anything from a king-sized bed and private bar to a work area and entertainment zone, and more – the design firm has to fulfill these specifications, however, space-constrained they might be.
As the industry grows, demand follows suit. Boutique design studios have already cemented their position in the market; however, certain large-scale airlines have begun dipping their wings in the design field – and why wouldn’t they? They have the resources, clientele, and financing to back their efforts.
So how about we have a look at some of the projects currently available?
To begin with, Bombardier has a team of on-site industrial designers that guide the client through the customization process, assisting with the selection of materials and color palettes to perfect the customer’s bespoke style. The Canadian firm’s design process is in-house, which allows for more freedom regarding functionality and synchronization with the aircraft.
Some designers also offer proprietary materials and bespoke furniture to match the client’s exact needs and vision. UK-based Winch Design executes its work remarkably –the firm even uses modern technology to craft some of its furnishings from scratch. This aligns the needs of the client directly with the designer for the ideal outcome. Currently, Winch Design works mostly with Airbus airliners, but it has plans to develop a Boeing BBJ and BBJMAX in the future.
Some of the industry’s designs have made us wonder how it is possible to fit all these furnishings in such a small space. Then we did our research – Airbus’s ACJ350 VIP widebody has over 300 square meters of floor space to work with and Boeing’s BBJ 747-8 has over 400 square meters available. Even Airbus’s smallest aircraft has over 70 square meters of accessible floor area to create. The process of converting one of these airliners into a private space can take thousands of hours, but the stylistic limitations are endless, and the outcomes are extraordinary.
For private jet interior designers, multifunctionality is the name of the game. Even if the cabin has several rooms, the creator’s objective is to optimize the space and flight experience. Popular customizations include seats that convert into a flatbed and stacking or sliding tables that can double as an office desk or game table. However, if you are more business-oriented and require a professional aerial environment, opt for multiple meeting rooms and the maximization of open space.
The bespoke industry is quite prestigious, but customizing your private airliner is the pinnacle of success. Whether your preference is minimalist, art deco, or modern styling – the market exists, and studios are willing to personalize and produce your vision – but it will cost you a pretty penny!
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