12
In the zone
Air travel is not often considered as a social activity; however, a recent development in aircraft interiors could see this change
With airlines looking to diverse interior architecture as a means of brand differentiation, Heath Tecna’s UK division, part of the Premium Aircraft Interior Group, has developed a social zone that fuses aesthetic design, functionality and in-flight variation for the passenger. The ‘zone’ features Heath Tecna’s ‘Ful/Fil’ bar, a striking design feature that integrates with the aircraft interior sidewall curvature. Installed within a door area location, the bar can be used in the first instance as a ‘welcome area’, where cabin crew can greet passengers boarding the aircraft.
Once in flight, compartments illuminated with harmonious mood lighting effects and inset within a sweeping concave backdrop, contain a variety of refreshments, allowing passengers to help themselves to light snacks in-between scheduled meal services throughout the journey. Heath Tecna’s Industrial Designer, John Tighe explains, ‘When designing the Ful/Fil bar, I aimed to produce a functional unit that had the facilities to offer a range of refreshment options. On the ground, passengers can choose to eat exactly what they want, at whatever time they like. Feeding this desire becomes challenging when travelling, due to changing time zones, routines, and differing moods. By offering a self-service policy, passengers can snack when they choose.’ To cater for the diverse request of passengers, which in-line with shifting cultural attitudes now frequently demand the availability of healthier options, the bar has been specifically designed to display a full selection, each with its own individual section that supports the design appeal. From healthy fruit and smoothies on the left side of the display, through to balanced bites
in the centre, and indulgent treats on the right side, the compartmental storage accommodates a plethora of options. The contrast is exaggerated with mood lighting, which washes from left to right, illuminating the product and creating a striking central feature. This unique combination provides a real marketing and customer differentiation point for an airline. Ensuring the most efficient mechanisms of practicality for cabin crew is also a primary focus throughout all design activity. The Ful/Fil Bar incorporates secure, self-retaining storage enabling the outer shelving to remain stocked throughout all flight phases.
Ample stowage for meal boxes or additional supplies is also available in the lower structure. Creating an integrated area within the cabin is becoming more desirable for airlines, and, as pointed out by John Tighe, ‘it is only by looking at the cabin as a whole, that a cohesive and fluid design language be achieved to inform the individual monuments within it.’ The social zone concept is structured around
providing the feeling of spaciousness for the passenger. As well as having the freedom to leave their designated seat and enjoy the range of dining options offered at the bar, the social zone also includes a succinct but perfectly formed leather-upholstered sofa to provide alternative seating within this open, unconfined area of the cabin. Situated in close proximity to the bar, with integral literature racks and a series of attractive lighting options, inclusion of a seating complex transforms the bar from a feature which is visited very quickly, to one which encourages a period of socializing and enjoyment of the ambiance and experience offered by the airline.
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