CMF T RENDS
The landscape of materials is changing,
combining the best features of nature and
technology. The origin of the materials is
becoming more important as informed
passengers demand sustainable solutions,
as is maintenance, durability, and the
possibility to reuse materials retrofit at
the end of their cycle.
In fabrics we see innovation from the
beginning of the production process, with
different blends and techniques being
introduced. Natural fibres are being combined
in a modern way and plain textiles embellished
with embroideries as a tribute to traditional
craftsmanship and heritage. It’s interesting
to see textile weaving knowledge being
transferred into flooring systems, resulting
in resistant, easy maintenance solutions as
well as a significant weight reduction. The
lightweight flooring materials have recently
been applied in Almadesign’s latest project,
the Alice electric aircraft from Eviation.
The value of texture and its tactility is being
explored, and irregularities and the beauty of
handcraft and imperfection being embraced
as a reaction to increasingly automated
production processes. In thermoplastics we
see this trend in linen and denim texture
effects, creating sophisticated materials
with natural fibres and patterns.
A seamless travel experience with
harmonious and neutral colour palettes
of earthy tones and green effect shades
reconnects passengers with nature. The
leather industry is moving into chrome-free
leather and naturally smooth materials such
as nubuck that provide long-lasting durability,
with imperfections that add character and
age gracefully. Natural oak tanning processes
offer a truly vegetable-based and sustainable
process that creates a soft touch, high-quality
material that is comfortable and durable.
NATURAL TALENT
JOSÉ RUI MARCELINO, CEO AND DESIGN
MANAGER AT ALMADESIGN, NOTES THE
IMPORTANCE OF HAVING REAL DEPTH IN NATURAL
TEXTILES, FROM THEIR FABRIC MAKEUP, TO THEIR
PRODUCTION AND AESTHETIC
Technology trends
NICK LENDON, LEAD INDUSTRIAL DESIGNER AT
MORMEDI, EXPLORES TECH-ENABLED CMF TRENDS
The challenge with material selection
has always been treading the fine
line between selecting a range that is
bold enough to make its mark without
suffocating the form of the furniture
itself. Fortunately, technology makes this
easier, enabling us to approach CMF from
different creative angles. Here are my
three picks for tech-enabled CMF trends.
Firstly, textures are being used to
great effect and are a good way to add
visual interest to large surfaces. Aircraft
Interiors Expo 2019 saw no shortage
of suppliers focusing their efforts on
refining embossing and moulding
processes in order to create lightweight,
cushioned panels to give a cosy feel to
cabin furniture. The changing appearance
of these panels under different lighting
mean they can take advantage of
advances in illumination, for a holistic
approach to cabin design.
Secondly, improvements in highresolution
printing are helping to
achieve a domestic ambience. Sekisui’s
Infused Imaging, for example, allows
us to integrate materials with the
appearance of marble and wood. The
usual restrictions on material selection
are being bypassed by technology and, as
such, I’m sure we will see aviation adopt
general interior trends at a faster rate.
Finally, sustainability is at last being
taken seriously. Airlines are holding
themselves accountable and material
suppliers will surely follow suit by
ensuring the manufacturing processes
and post-service life of their products
stand up under scrutiny – a trend that
is here to stay.
aircraftinteriorsinternational.com
092 NOVEMBER 2019
LEFT AND BELOW: SEKISUI
SPI’S INFUSED IMAGING
TECHNOLOGY ENABLES
ATTRACTIVE EFFECTS
ABOVE: ALMADESIGN’S MOOD
BOARD FOR THE ALICE CABIN
/aircraftinteriorsinternational.com