PearsonLloyd designs new business class cabins for Lufthansa
PearsonLloyd has designed a new business class cabin environment for German airline Lufthansa, which will launch alongside the new Boeing 777-9 aircraft in 2020.
Aiming to provide better privacy and comfort for business class passengers, the redesigned cabins will feature larger and more ergonomic seats, positioned inside V-shaped, suite-like enclosures.
The new Boeing 777-9, launching in 2020, will have a wider cabin than previous models – meaning that passengers will also be given direct access to the aisle, an increased amount of personal space, and extra storage compartments and flat desk surfaces.
The new environment follows on from business class seats and cabins designed by PearsonLloyd for Lufthansa back in March 2012, which saw pairs of seats positioned in a V-shape, with the diagonal intended to give a sense of privacy.
"Privacy and an optimum of comfort for sleeping are two of the most important needs of passengers on international routes – both are handled perfectly with the new business class concept," said the airline.
Designed so that passengers can sleep on journeys, the new seats can convert into beds that are up to 220 centimetres (86.6 inches) long.
The seat also includes a backrest that allows the shoulder to sink in when lying on your side, keeping the spine straight and making it possible for side sleepers to have a "healthy and relaxing sleep".
Passengers can also customise the space depending on their needs, choosing between a longer bed or a seat with twice as much desk space.
The London-based studio has further incorporated digital interfaces that allow passengers to control all seat functions as well as the in-flight entertainment system via their personal device.
Wireless charging will allow smartphones and tablets to be powered from the seats.
All of these changes are expected to be available on regular routes from 2020. However, some changes will be showcased as soon as 2018 – including mattresses developed exclusively for Lufthansa, sleeping sweaters, and blankets.
PearsonLloyd was founded in 1997 by RCA classmates Luke Pearson and Tom Lloyd. The studio has since become specialists in furniture for offices, healthcare and aviation.