You have just gone through the long process of purchasing a new or used aircraft; it’s time to determine what the interior should look like, then refurbish the interior to meet the level of comfort and branding that meets your passengers’ needs. Who do you turn to for the right color and material selections and the amenities you require or desire? Perhaps you choose a flight attendant, your partner, or a professional designer you previously called upon to transform your home or yacht. These are all well-meaning people who understand your preferences, but when it comes to aviation interiors, having an aircraft interior designer on your side is critical.
There are a lot of great designers out there. Taking the desires of an individual and turning them into a three-dimensional space requires a specialized talent. When it comes to aircraft interior design, this talent is taken to an even higher level. The designer not only takes into account the materials, colors and furnishings, but also fully understands the limitations of the furnishings and how they are installed, certified and fabricated. It truly is an art that deserves a level of admiration beyond “simple” design.
Working with a designer at a completions center or an independent design firm who has experience in aviation interiors is critical to creating successful concepts. Designers with experience on the specific airframe are even better.
The expertise of designing an aircraft interior is developed through a thorough understanding of aircraft structures and limitations, and regulatory requirements. When you hire a designer who understands these issues, they will provide floorplans, concept sketches and drawings representing a more accurate picture of the final product. Addressing these factors at the outset will reduce potential revisions, costs and delays in the schedule. If you already have a designer you feel comfortable with, make sure they are interfacing with an aircraft interior designer as you progress through the process. This will greatly reduce any difficulties that might occur from the beginning of the project to completion.
If you can find a designer providing both, you have found someone who can deliver your desires. Congratulations on your new aircraft, and best of luck!
Jim Murphy is director of design at Point Innovation, a multidisciplinary design consultancy based in Dallas, Texas
