Naomi Astley Clarke has carved out an enviable reputation as one of London’s most sought-after interior designers. Named as one of Andrew Martin’s top 100 designers in the world, she has worked in the industry for over 25 years.
Known for her studio’s effortless blending of fine British craftsmanship with global design flair, she counts film stars and music moguls among her star-studded client list. But her latest project is a little different: The luxury designer has swapped glamorous residences for the interiors of a private jet.
Her task? To come up with a conceptual design for a Gulfstream G700 jet. With a cabin spanning 56.11 ft long (excluding baggage) and 8.2 ft wide, it’s a far cry from the sprawling homes of her well-heeled clients.
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However, when she was approached by a specialist in private aviation and asked to explore how a jet could be transformed into an extension of the home, she relished the opportunity.
“I adore the technical challenge of designing for restrictive, multifunctional spaces,” Astley Clarke tells Elite Traveler. “Every inch has to be accounted for and made the most of, and I think we have found the perfect balance between functionality and beauty.”
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Staying true to her signature style, the Gulfstream G700 jet interior mixes equal parts luxury and comfort. The result is the type of space that beckons invitingly; it’s somewhere passengers can completely relax and unwind in flight.
Taking inspiration from mid-century modern design, the cabin features plenty of polished walnut, plush velvet chairs and panels of intricate tropical wallpaper. The color palette is primarily neutral, with bold accents of emerald green creating a cozy, home-away-from-home vibe.
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Astley Clarke chose luxury brass detailing, timber finishes and faux-marble tables for their lightweight properties (but heavy, opulent appearance) to ensure the design met airworthiness requirements and safety regulations.
The seating layout on board has been configured to allow for both sleeping and meeting arrangements — a haven for those with a busy schedule. Our advice? Watch this space. If Astley Clarke’s first foray into aviation design is anything to go by, she looks set to become one of the go-to studios for transforming private jet interiors.
This article appears in the 04 Mar 2024 issue of the New Statesman, Spring 2024
