The Falcon and the Businessman
July 1, 2008
In contrast to the softness of the seats, walls, and floors, various hardwood and stone veneers were used to create an interplay of form and function. "When you enter the plane, the first thing you see," notes Hutton, "is the galley. You see the undulating cabinets: If we did full depth all the way across, it would have taken up too much room, so we swept it back and made it open and more spacious with the curved design." This sinuous shape gives the space a flow that is unusual for an aircraft interior. The countertop was created from granite that "they had to slice into one sixteenth of an inch–thick slabs and apply as a stone veneer, because of the weight," says Hutton. The same stone was applied to surfaces in the bathroom, as well. Because weight is such a paramount concern on an aircraft, even the dishes had to be individually weighed, with drawers and cabinets specially designed to hold them. New fixtures were purchased, then stripped of all inner components to render them feather-light. The stone, metal fixtures, and custom dishware gives the interior a feeling of permanence, a highly refreshing experience in a plane.
As planned, the aircraft was ready to fly within 12 weeks of purchase—a practically unheard-of schedule. The client, whose other diversions include his Ferraris, several boats, and many beautiful homes, was very pleased with the result. Upon seeing the completed jet, his wife remarked, "Of all the toys we have, this is the best one."
Gary Hutton Design, 415.626.2180, www.garyhuttondesign.com
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