Brisbane Airport's new look: the art of airport interior design

Brisbane Airport is currently undergoing a significant revamp as part of its exciting Future BNE transformation, which includes major upgrades to security equipment, parking extension, retail enhancements, and more.

The supporting star to this transformation is refreshed interiors - a challenging task given the scale, functionality, and materials required to create spaces that not only enhance the passenger experience but are built to also withstand frequent and growing passenger use.

To understand what goes into airport interior design, we spoke with the experts working on the upgrade projects to find out what passengers can expect from the new-look terminals.

Heidi Stone, Senior Project Manager at Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC), is working on the Domestic Terminal precinct development and shares how incorporating Queensland's flavour into the terminal's design has been a big focus.

"We saw this as a great opportunity to distil the essence of Queensland in the terminal. It's your first hello to the terminal for many travellers, so we drew inspiration from Queensland landscapes."

- Heidi Stone

This approach is reflected in the use of locally-sourced, sustainable materials, such as spotted gum hardwood and recycled materials like terrazzo made from locally recycled concrete.

Airport terminals are bustling hubs, often stressful for travellers. The design team aimed to create a more calming and relaxed environment for the security screening. Heidi explains, "We've worked hard to change the narrative from a utilitarian process to something more calming and relaxed for our passengers."

Key elements include soft carpeting which acts as an acoustic barrier to noise, warm lighting to create a soothing atmosphere, and a reduced palette of materials to avoid sensory overload.

The redesign also celebrates the airport's architectural heritage. "The existing terminal has beautiful round geometric features, and we wanted to play up these existing elements," Heidi said.

This includes incorporating the original terminal's round columns, arched bolts, and squircles in the ceiling into the new design, creating a harmonious blend of old and new.

Sustainability is a core principle of the Future BNE project. Angela Spillane, Principal at Studio Spillane, has been instrumental in integrating sustainable design practices into the projects.

"All of the furniture in the refreshed southern end of the Domestic Terminal is Australian-designed and made, which supports local designers and reduces the carbon footprint associated with shipping," Angela said.

The interior redesign extends beyond aesthetics to improve functionality and passenger comfort.

"We want people to engage with the space comfortably, whether they are socialising, eating, reading, or working."

- Angela Spillane

The new design includes flexible seating arrangements which can be moved to suit different groups, making the transit experience more pleasant.

"When airports were first built, they were all about boarding and disembarking. Now, people use airports in entirely different ways, so we've created spaces that allow for this."

- Angela Spillane

This transformation is not only about improving aesthetics and functionality but also about creating an inclusive environment. Universal design principles have been integrated throughout the terminal to ensure accessibility for all passengers. This includes features like low-height counters, wide walkways, and seating options that cater to people of all abilities.

"We want to design for diversity and inclusion in public spaces, making sure that everyone feels comfortable and accommodated."

- Angela Spillane

The design of the International Terminal continues to build on the themes of sustainability and local heritage. "A standout feature in this space is the innovative use of Brisbane tuff, a type of volcanic rock historically quarried from the Kangaroo Point Cliffs. This material, once used in some of Brisbane's oldest buildings, is being repurposed into new furniture and benchtops throughout the terminal. It not only honours the city's architectural history but also aligns with the airport's commitment to sustainability giving new life to old materials," Angela said.

"This project has really pushed us to explore different sustainability initiatives and partner with local businesses to find unique solutions."

- Heidi Stone

"We love working with Brisbane Airport because of its dynamic, ever-evolving environments that challenge us to think creatively about design. Airports are unique in that they serve a diverse group of people from all over the world, and our goal is to create spaces that are not only functional and efficient, but also welcoming and reflective of the local culture. It's incredibly rewarding to see how our designs can enhance the travel experience for millions of passengers," Angela said.

CREDITS

• Feature image: Completedredesign and furnishes for the recent Domestic Terminal Retail Upgrade
• Find out more about Future BNE, a $5 billion investment planned over the coming decade to transform Brisbane Airport.

• Sign up for our Future BNE eNewsletter to stay in the know, with updates direct to your inbox quarterly.