ORGANIC AND RECYCLABLE MATERIALS

Whether they are intended for jets, yachts, or homes, interior fixtures and fittings are undergoing a real revolution. The way in which indoor volumes are designed now focuses on transforming a vision into reality, form must correspond as closely as possible to function, and it is in this area that research is well underway.

Weight reduction is also a matter of real importance, especially on board jets, but also yachts. Carbon fibre has been widely adopted for several years, though the main goal among designers and manufacturers is the possibility of using recyclable materials. As a substitute for carbon fibre, plant or vegetable fibres are regularly chosen to create surfaces and items not involving structural support.

FROM CRAFTSMANSHIP TO INDUSTRY

While a good number of workshops retain their mastery of producing fixtures and fittings thanks to the talent and craftsmanship of their carpenters and cabinetmakers, builders of superyachts also call on renowned outfitters such as Metrica Interiors, established in several countries over the years and delivering interiors for large yachts at an industrial level. In this sector, smaller enterprises are sought after for their expertise in more personalised design, using composite materials as well as new metallic materials. Some of their creations are real works of art with decorative appeal, and jet manufacturers are especially appreciative of the finesse and lightness of these metals.

At the cutting edge of the search for new materials, the Austrian firm F/LIST was recently applauded for its work on the use of organic materials specifically intended for aircraft interiors. Production of these decorative materials calls on technologies as far apart as those used by jewellers and the aerospace industry, at the spearhead of processes based on chemistry. Several new materials are already on the market.

Designed for all types of surfaces, AENIGMA can be found on a residence’s driveway, the floor of a yacht or that of a jet, lending itself to all styles of decor. Based on plants, WHISPER is a flexible textile both light and fine that looks rather like leather and can be applied on all kinds of surfaces. These new materials offer boundless scope for use in the home, on jets and yachts.