Jeannine Kray, senior CMF designer at Greenpoint Technologies, discusses aviation material trends and the exciting possibilities of smart materials.
What aviation material trends have you seen recently?
Hospitality and automotive design, as well as sustainability initiatives, continue to influence aviation material trends by emphasising enhanced comfort through a growing variety of woven and non-woven textiles. These comfort-driven materials seamlessly integrate with surfaces that support immersive technology.
What materials from other industries are exciting?
I am excited to see earnest sustainable developments across our supply base, backed by science and engineered to meet VVIP appeal. A lightweight, eco-friendly bio-foam seating product caught my attention this year. Though it will require stakeholders and seat manufacturers to test applications through their manufacturing and certification processes, I am confident market demand will make it happen.
Are you interested in smart materials’ potential?
I’m drawn to materials that enhance the human experience and open up new design possibilities. Smart materials are particularly exciting because they have the potential to improve passenger comfort and control through adaptive seating systems and interactive surfaces. Additionally, new developments could lead to a more sustainable footprint by reducing weight and improving the flight experience through sound reduction.
What should material suppliers prioritise for R&D?
I prioritise material suppliers with agile processes and that embrace collaboration. They recognise R&D is rarely straightforward; it requires a deep partnership and a significant level of trust.
The aviation market operates under strict requirements and tight supply chain controls. Large minimum order quantities (MOQs), and the high costs associated with certifying materials, often present challenges to R&D efforts. Consequently, our industry historically relies on established materials and suppliers. However, the VVIP market offers unique opportunities to work with suppliers, reduce MOQs when feasible, and streamline R&D processes to deliver bespoke, flight-ready materials.
Can you share a recent standout material solution?
One of my favourite material solutions this past year involved collaborating with a glass manufacturer to achieve a specific colour and finish. The subtle solution allowed us to incorporate a unique vertical decorative surface into the project, perfectly complementing our design.
How can suppliers best support customisation?
I look for the same qualities in customisation projects as I do in R&D efforts; transparency, trust and strong partnerships. While customisation projects may have shorter timelines, these qualities remain essential. Designers are inspired by the curiosity and expertise of our suppliers; the more insights we gain, the further we push the boundaries. Custom details, when executed well, become bespoke design elements that perform exceptionally and delight our clients.
This interview was conducted by Izzy Kington and first published in the September/October 2024 edition of Business Jet Interiors International as part of the Design Forum feature.
