Designers of private jets typically have their visions gate-checked from the beginning because of the weight restrictions of flying (every ounce counts to make a jet more efficient) as well as FAA requirements that all materials and equipment have to undergo strict certification for airworthiness. That often means that not only are beautiful, grandiose ideas left on the cutting-room floor, but even coffeemakers can get nixed for not passing certification.

There are times when designers let their imaginations run wild to show what jet interiors could look like with the shackles off, though. The Solrise concept, recently released by San Antonio-based designer Natalie Rodriguez, is a good example. Reimagining the 2,458-square-foot interior of a BBJ 787-8, a variant of Boeing’s Dreamliner for heads of state and VVIPs, Rodriguez wanted passengers to forget they were on a jet at all by providing luxury comforts more closely associated with a five-star hotel. “It’s about creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also nurturing, immersive, and quietly transformative,” Rodriguez told Robb Report, adding that the concept was “not about spectacle but more about presence.”

The 787-8 has a usable cabin length of 173 feet, a width of more than 18 feet, and headroom of 7 feet. As a blank canvas, it can easily accommodate multi-room configurations, including lounges, dining areas, conference areas, a full primary suite, and a showcase bar.

Rodriguez decided to create all of the above. When passengers enter the aircraft, they step into the Solrise main lounge, which showcases four divan seats and four fully articulating residential-inspired accent seats in the centre. Contemporary neutral hues in the fabrics and wood veneer are contrasted with deep olive-juniper accents, dark Emperador marble, and antiqued metalwork, creating a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. Welcome to your favourite designer bar.

The design incorporates circular forms in the ceilings and key architectural accents to reflect the renewing energy of a sunrise.

“Lighting is one of the most transformative tools in any interior,” Rodriguez says. “For Solrise, we used cove and wash lighting in the ceiling’s circular motifs as well as under-seat illumination to create a layered, almost cinematic feel. Even the doorframes are framed in soft light.”

The team opted for textured metals, ribbed panels, honed and ribbed marbles, and velvet upholstery, all of which subtly glow as light shifts. Every component serves the overall design brief: Anti-glare screens, for instance, double as digital art when not in use.

Toward the aft of the aircraft is one of Rodriguez’s favourite features—and one which most early risers would appreciate. The full-service coffee bar is the centrepiece of a functional meeting and entertainment space, ensuring high-fliers feel refreshed and invigorated. The area transforms into a swanky cocktail bar during evening hours.

The primary suite radiates a sombre sort of opulence. A king bed anchors the suite, with an impressive ribbed panel headboard and a large digital screen for entertainment. The circular design above the bed is accented by reflective headliner material and mood lighting in the ceiling panels. Ten windows provide ample natural light and are paired with Alcantara valances to control the amount of light.

Other design extras across the interior include custom merino wool and silk carpeting, as well as live plants to please any green thumbs.

Created for VVIPs or heads of state, the BBJ 787 has a base price of US$239 million.

Cover photo courtesy of Natalie Rodriguez Design

This story was previously published on Robb Report USA.