Superior Interior In the high-flying industry of aircraft interior design, there is no shortage of innovation to enhance the experiential aspects of passenger comfort. We explore why Finnair’s signature cabin concept recently garnered international acclaim. by Charmaine Chartier
Mitchell Kapor, founder of the Lotus Development Corporation, once said, “What is design? It’s where you stand with a foot in two worlds – the world of technology and the world of people and human purposes, and you try to bring the two together.” Finnair’s new Airbus A350 XWB cabin interior does just that, a design feat which precipitated its recent recognition for design distinction 42
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and passenger comfort in the Economy and Business Class category of the 2015 International Yacht & Aviation Awards. This clever design is the creation of dSign Vertti Kivi & Co, headquartered in Helsinki. Founded in 1994 by interior architect Vertti Kivi, the award-winning design company also crafted Finnair’s new Premium Lounge at Helsinki Airport. In addition to the fresh Nordic design features, the firm’s Space Alive concept focuses on the spatial experience. Onboard programming enables a fusion of provocative visual elements, such as vibrant, ambient lighting, and virtual decor options that encompass an array of skyscapes from Mother Nature, including the northern lights, a sunrise or sunset, and cloud configurations. With only 297 seats, the roomy aircraft layout features large panoramic view windows and comfortable seating arrangements in both classes. Complemented by slim lines and understated elements like tailored topstitching, the cabin design reaffirms the philosophy that less is more. Most importantly, the light-friendly, neutral color palette dramatically diffuses the color spectrum, while the Finnair-brand navy blue carpet anchors the overall cabin theme.
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“Many of Finnair’s long-haul passengers coming from Asia, Europe or North America may not be so familiar with Finland,” says Juha Järvinen, Finnair’s chief commercial officer, “but their time spent traveling with us is a great opportunity to showcase the best of our design culture and show how good design can make life better.” And ultimately, it’s all about elevating the airline passenger experience.
TOP Finnair’s A350 XWB Business Class cabin shines in warm golden hues. ABOVE The Zodiac Cirrus III wide and long full-flat-bed seats were modified for Finnair passengers.
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photos: finnair
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