Designer Interview: Duncan Aviation's Teri Nekuda

Teri CroppedName:
Teri Nekuda
Title:
Aircraft Completions Designer
Company:
Duncan Aviation
Briefly describe your work…
My responsibilities include the re-design of exterior paint and all interior finishes of private and corporate jets. A design job can range from just carpet selection up to an entire refurbishment - including the headliner, window panels, lower side panels, seat and divan covering, veneer cabinet finish, counter tops, plating, floor covering and accessories.
Why do you love your work?
My work brings new challenges everyday. I've witnessed so much change in my 25 years at Duncan. There are many more material and finish options, which allow for so much more creativity.
What inspires you?
I find inspiration in everything from the smallest detail in nature to the largest displays of color in the sky and in all forms of architecture and art ... I guess just about everywhere.
Do you see an emerging aviation trend?
Light colors and a more serene space.
Where is your favorite place to use leather on a jet?
I mostly use leather on seating. I especially like the leathers with a little metallic to show off the contour of the seat. aviation-email
What is your favorite era of aviation?
As of today the 1950's.... due to a really fun project I am working on.
Where is your favorite place in the world to travel?
Italy
What is your travel must-have?
Leather bags, leather everything.
What do you pack in your carry on?
Pajamas.
Tell us about your dream jet.
It would be very artsy. The exterior paint scheme would be something fun and artistic, something with a wow factor. The interior would have seats covered in hair-on-hide and a light two-tone metallic leather. There would be lots of other cozy finishes, from the headliner to the floor covering.
What is one thing from the ground that you wish you had in the air?
I would have an exquisite sound system and a big screen monitor. I would have more of the options I have in my home.