Airport Lounge Design Insights by iBestTravel

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The Foundation of Lounge Design

According to airport designer David Loyola, the design of an airport lounge begins with the airline. Each airline possesses its own unique identity that influences the lounge environment significantly. Additionally, the location of the lounge plays a crucial role, as the local vibe is infused into the lounge’s atmosphere.

Key Design Features

• Seating Capacity: Most airline lounges prioritize a variety of seating options to maximize comfort and capacity. According to Loyola, “Space is a premium, because most airlines want to maximize seating capacity.”
• Food Experience: Food offerings enhance the airport lounge experience. Airlines like Air New Zealand focus on technological advancements, including food theaters that elevate customer expectations.
• Business Travel Focus: The design is tailored towards frequent fliers and business travelers, but accommodations for all types of travelers are essential to cope with high foot traffic.
• Power Accessibility: With the rise of technology, ensuring that every seat has access to power is non-negotiable. Loyola emphasizes that, “100% of the seats need to have access to power, so that obviously impacts the design.”
• Seating Variety: Successful lounges provide a range of seating options, ensuring travelers can choose environments that suit their needs—whether for working, resting, or socializing.

Challenges in Airport Lounge Design

Designing airport lounges involves navigating complex logistics. Loyola explains that input from the airport authority and accommodating various stakeholders are constant challenges that designers must manage efficiently.

Current Trends in Lounge Design

Innovative features like outdoor terraces are becoming popular, offering travelers a chance to step away from the airport’s hustle and bustle. According to Loyola, lounges like Star Alliance’s at LAX are leading this trend, where guests can enjoy fresh air and stunning views.

A Global Perspective

Loyola emphasizes the importance of experiencing competitor lounges around the world. Observing global trends in lounge design allows him to continually elevate the customer experience. “You want to see what the competition is doing and how that elevates experience,” he states.

The Future of Lounge Experience

The lounge experience often represents a traveler’s final encounter with a destination. Consequently, the design elements can evoke lasting memories. As highlighted by Loyola, each airline offers a distinctive character that can ultimately enhance the journey.