At the 2026 Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) in Hamburg, Germany, SEKISUI KYDEX will debut a collaborative wide-body aircraft interior concept developed in partnership with Boeing subsidiary EnCore. Known as the Parlor, the customer-facing social galley is a real-world example of how materials, industrial design, and manufacturing expertise can come together to elevate the passenger experience.
Designed as a premium-class, wide-body social space, the Parlor reimagines the traditional aircraft galley as a destination within the cabin. The concept is intended to be customer-facing, allowing passengers to help themselves to beverages and snacks while engaging in a more open, welcoming environment. The installation will be featured on the SEKISUI KYDEX stand 5D40.
Bringing a refined, residential-inspired aesthetic to the concept, the Parlor showcases what can be achieved when partners are aligned around a shared vision and an accelerated development timeline. EnCore contributed design direction and manufacturing expertise grounded in real-world airline and OEM requirements. SEKISUI KYDEX materials and technologies were integrated throughout the galley to demonstrate how high-performance thermoplastics can support both form and function in customer-facing applications.
“While the idea of a pantry is not new, the way we’re exploring how materiality shapes the passenger experience is,” said Tom Eaton, Chief Designer, Cabin and Interiors at Boeing. “The Parlor is designed to evoke a more residential, hospitality-inspired aesthetic to create a destination within the aircraft where passengers feel genuinely welcomed and leave with a lasting impression.”
The installation features a curated selection of KYDEX® Thermoplastics, including Infused Imaging™ technology, KYDEX® 7115Lumina™, and Kleerdex™ custom translucents, demonstrating how these materials can create depth, visual interest, and brand expression in aircraft interiors. The integrated lighting elements within the Parlor further highlight how specialty materials interact with light in an onboard environment, giving designers and airlines a clearer view of what is possible in future cabin applications.
For SEKISUI KYDEX, the Parlor represents a shift from conceptual displays to fully realized interior elements that reflect real-world manufacturing constraints and opportunities. “We wanted to move beyond samples and renderings and show a built concept that designers, airlines, and OEMs could experience,” said Kellie Walter, Aviation Market Business Manager at SEKISUI KYDEX. “This project illustrates what can be accomplished in a short period of time when partners are committed to solving challenges together.”
With EnCore’s experience in developing and manufacturing new onboard products to meet evolving airline expectations, the partners aimed to create a concept that feels relevant, aspirational, and achievable for future wide-body programs.
The Parlor will serve as more than a concept, but a living experience for continued collaboration, with plans to refresh materials, finishes, and aesthetics in future years. By evolving the concept over time, the partners intend to demonstrate how aircraft interior spaces support each airline’s unique vision and can adapt to changing passenger expectations, brand identities, and design trends.
Visit SEKISUI KYDEX stand 5D40 at Aircraft Interiors Expo 2026 to experience the Parlor and learn how collaborative design and material innovation can shape the next generation of aircraft interiors.
About EnCore
EnCore specializes in the design and development of innovative aircraft cabin interiors. As a Boeing subsidiary, EnCore works closely with airlines, OEMs, and industry partners to create forward-thinking solutions that balance passenger experience, manufacturability, and operational requirements. Visit encoregroup.aero for more information.
About SEKISUI KYDEX
KYDEX® Thermoplastics is globally recognized as the leader in sustainable, high-performance specialty polymers for aviation interiors. Our fully compliant portfolio has a refined degree of integral finish, color, and design to enhance the passenger experience. With our mission of challenging what’s possible and delivering beyond imagination, we are more than a raw material supplier; we are a solution provider. As your collaborative partner and the world’s leading pioneer of thermoplastic solutions – done responsibly, we put innovation at the forefront, guiding you from beginning to end. Our experts in the designLab® and appLab™ Innovation Centers are available to help you identify the best solutions for your applications. Visit stand 5D40 or kydex.com for more information.
