Passengers enter the plane directly into a bar area that includes stools and a floor-to-ceiling island of glass barware and communications technology. Beyond the bar, the main lounge area boasts multiple couches on one side and a massive projection screen along the wall on the other. Guests can watch satellite TV, DVDs, CCTV, or test their skills with the latest video games.
The next space is a mini lounge. An area for business or private conversations, it is furnished with Mies van der Rohe’s elegant and classic Barcelona Chairs. “The same as those in the client’s home,” notes Guy. “We got them certified.” The space is separated from the main lounge by a clear glass screen, which turns opaque with the press of a button.
Adjacent to this mini lounge is what Guy and Doy refer to as “The Snug.” Fully padded and soundproof, this semi-circular room features an entertainment system with 360-degree surround sound and a 180-degree wrap-around projection screen. It’s the perfect in-flight space for kids to play without bothering adult passengers. It also doubles as the celebrity couple’s bedroom.
The take-off-and-landing suite is in the back of the plane. Each plush seat, detailed in dark wood and brushed metal, converts into a comfortable, full-length flat bed, while one row can be converted into a sofa.
Three-dimensional graphics were presented to the client just seven weeks after the initial briefing–a testament to the range of talent and services on offer at Design Q, as well as to the passion that those talents bring to their work.
Having completed the Celebrity Jet and, more recently, projects for Cathay Pacific’s First Class suite and British Airways’ Business Class suite, what will Design Q turn its talents to next? That is what excites Howard. “I never know what I’ll be designing tomorrow,” he says. “But I’m an optimist. If a designer isn’t an optimist, then he’s a bad designer.” Design Q’s clients have reason to be optimistic as well.
