After collaborations with carmaker Bentley and yacht builder Riva, Flexjet is having a content to design an LXi G650 interior.
Fractional operator Flexjet is offering a $100,000 prize for its Design the Ultimate Private Jet Interior contest as part of its Project LXi.
A press release states, “Flexjet is looking to uncover new inspiration, bold expression, and authentic artistry to complement its nearly 50 custom interiors – each of which tells its own story.”
The second-largest U.S. private jet flight operator adds, “Specifically designed to transport private jet travelers well beyond their destination, our LXi Cabin Collection of custom private jet interiors has set an inspiring aviation precedent. Since 2015, in-house artisans have collaborated with aircraft manufacturers to create one-of-a-kind fold-down ottomans, pop-up kibitzer seating, custom divans, and credenzas, as well as dedicated lounges and staterooms with equal parts utility and elegance.”
A panel of judges will narrow the submissions to 10 semi-finalists for the public to vote on.
The top three entrants with the most votes will then present their designs to Flexjet Chairman Kenn Ricci.
Ricci will choose the grand prize-winning design.
“Beautiful design can completely transform an experience, and I have always enjoyed studying design, whether in clothing, architecture, or aircraft,” says Ricci.
He adds, “When it comes to the Flexjet fleet, we created a number of themes, just as boutique hotels often do with their rooms. It makes Flexjet unique. Each aircraft’s interior design captures interest and speaks to our fanatical attention to detail.”
The theme is entirely up to the designer for Project LXi – Design the Ultimate Private Jet Interior.
The design will be implemented on one of the company’s Gulfstream G650s.
The ultra-long-range jet is divided into four distinct zones.
Each zone can have a different carpet pattern, seating materials, color and accents, type of wood veneer, and sidewall color and material.
Entrants also will be challenged to name their design entry.
Current interiors include Capris, inspired by the Isle of Capris; Art Deco, inspired by the Roaring 20s; Santa Fe, from the southwestern U.S.; and Boardroom, inspired by the 1999 movie The Thomas Crown Affair.
In 2022, Flexjet collaborated with Bentley Motorcars.
The collaboration was for the G650 and Sikorsky S-76 interiors using the Bentley Bacalar.
Those aircraft then embarked on a nationwide tour.
Stops included Monterey Car Week at the Pebble Beach Golf Links in Carmel, Calif., the Palm Beach, Fla. International Boat Show, and several invite-only events in Miami, Fla., and New York, N.Y.
An interior with yacht builder Ferretti Group is set to premiere in 2025.
The design and craftsmanship of a Riva motor yacht will inspire it.