Vintage Meets Modern in the Skies

Apex & Origins Wild Rice Co.: A Cessna 180 Transformation

At Apex, we love taking on unique projects that blend history with innovation. Our latest endeavour with Origins Wild Rice Co. was exactly that. They approached us with a classic 1956 Cessna 180, seeking a fresh interior that would match their company’s dynamic spirit and rugged operational needs.

Vintage Meets Modern in the Skies

The Cessna 180 is an aviation legend, originally touted as “the businessman’s airplane” but soon celebrated for its reliability and backcountry prowess. With over 6,000 of these planes built between 1953 and 1981, each one carries a legacy of adventure. Origins Wild Rice Co., which grows and distributes TCO certified organic lake-harvested wild rice from the Boreal Forest of Northern Saskatchewan, uses this aircraft to support their operations.

Crafting the Pilot’s Dream

For this project, we turned the old seats into a pilot’s dream. We chose vintage-looking caramel leather to honor the plane’s rich history while adding a touch of modern luxury with in-house perforated white leather accent panels. The combination of these materials not only provides a stylish upgrade but also ensures comfort and durability for the rigors of backcountry flying.

More to Come

We’re excited to finish the rest of the Cessna’s interior, bringing the same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail to every part of the plane. This project is a perfect example of how we at Apex can blend the old with the new, creating interiors that are as functional as they are beautiful.

Origins Wild Rice Co. now has an aircraft interior that reflects their dedication to quality and their adventurous spirit. At Apex, we’re proud to be part of their journey, helping them soar to new heights with style and comfort.

Photography: Spencer Gatt