Jet Aviation recently made the shortlist in the Private Aviation Interior Concept category in this years International Yacht & Aviation Awards 2014 with both their Visionary and Timeless concepts.

Name: Elisabeth Harvey

Company: Jet Aviation

Position within company: Head of the Interior Design Studio, Jet Aviation Basel

Website: www.jetaviation.com

What direction do you feel design is moving towards in general terms?

In general, our customers are becoming even more exacting and discerning with regards to their design requirements. In addition, new technology-led factors are coming into play, as well as a focus on lighter weight materials, though the emphasis still remains on luxurious cabin interiors.

What projects are you currently working on?

We are working on a number of confidential aviation projects and design concepts for private clients, both for single and especially twin aisle Boeing and Airbus aircraft.

A designer’s work is so diverse – how do you manage to hold down a career and a life?

It is sometimes challenging – design inspiration often strikes out of normal office hours. Our clients also have extremely demanding schedules, so meetings and design briefs can occur at any time of day (or night).

The world of private aviation interior design is also quite addictive and exciting, and I often have to remind myself to switch off at the end of the day. On the other hand, I love my work and being creative is integral to my being. I guess the secret to maintaining a career and a life, is to surround yourself with people who appreciate your interests, while not forgetting how much you appreciate having them in your life. Like anything in life, it’s all about finding and maintaining a happy balance.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2014 and beyond.

1.Design details will be key. A design has to be thought through, from start to finish.

2.Timeless designs never fall out of fashion – form cannot help but follow function.

3.Flexibility of interiors is essential – what is the norm in homes, now becomes expected in private aviation interiors.

4.Interior spaces and exterior spaces continue to merge. Design cannot be developed in isolation.

5.Design, innovation and technology go hand in hand.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?

Design an interior at all times with your customer in mind and be prepared to never stop learning or pushing the boundaries of possibility, no matter on what scale.

How important are The International Yacht and Aviation Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?

The International Yacht and Aviation Awards are an excellent platform for designers to highlight their work and be recognised within the industry. I am immensely proud that Jet Aviation’s Design Studio has been shortlisted.

How do you relax?

Living in Switzerland gives great opportunity to explore and experience the beauty of not only this country but also Germany and France, which are just “next door”.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?

To continue to develop the Interior Design Studio at Jet Aviation Basel, focusing on excellence in interior design and championing a quality product for our customers.

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself

The car you drive – I live in the centre of Basel, Switzerland. The Swiss transport system is excellent, so pretty much everything is easily accessible by public transport – or by bicycle.

Your favourite place to travel to in the world –I love exploring new places. Favourite places are where I can be inspired by art or nature. On the top of my list are Paris and Barcelona for art and architecture and perhaps the islands of Hawaii for their sheer natural varied beauty.

Your favourite hotel/bar/restaurant –Anywhere with great food, good company, perfect service and a relaxed atmosphere.

The place that gives you the most energy – Catching up with friends in my adopted second hometown of London.

And the place that enables you to totally relax? – On a warm sunny day in the garden of my family home in Suffolk, England