Take Off Countdown

Is it possible to overhaul an entire plane in 30 days? Chicago-based interior designer frank ponterio proved it could be done.

- Raewyn Koh

A used Cessna Citation CJ2+ came into the possession of a longstanding client and golfing buddy of Frank Ponterio’s last year.

Having worked with Ponterio on a number of residential projects, this friend knew that he had the potential to completely overhaul the private jet’s dull and boring all beige interiors into something that would better reflect his personality.

Ponterio was more than happy to take on the project. The catch, however, was that it had to be done within 30 days, in order for his client to fly it to the Masters Tournament in Augusta, Georgia.

Top of the to-do list was a complete stripping down of the interiors to do the design from scratch. Ponterio shares the process and his favourite details of the Cessna.

What inspired the interiors of the Cessna Citation CJ2+?

Really, the client was the inspiration. He’s a friend I know well, so I wanted it to reflect his lifestyle and tastes. He wanted something fresh and smart, and knowing that he loves colour, we pulled blue into the mix (not knowing it would then become Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2020). It is his plane and completely reflective of his sensibilities. It is what we do for all our clients – feeling at home even if they’re in the air.

What was most challenging about the detailing of its interior design?