Beyond Transit Hubs: How can airports be transformed into sacred spaces
Senior Capstone
Currently, airports are primarily perceived as transit hubs overlooking their potential to serve as culturally enriching spaces.
DESPITE, being the initial point of contact for visitors to a city, they frequently fall short in effectively representing the culture and identity of their host city.
This underutilization poses a Significant issue as travelers experience a range of emotions, from stress to excitement, which the airport environment often fails to adequately address.
Discovering what it means to be a sacred space
“A sacred space, from my perspective, is a communal gathering point that fosters unity and shared values. It's not just about religious significance but also a space that holds the collective memories, celebrations, and struggles of an individual or a community. The sacredness emerges from the stories and traditions woven into its walls, creating a sense of belonging and continuity”
Zoe, 30, new york
Strategy:
Exploring strategies for transforming airports into a space that accurately reflects people's idea of a sacred space
Conversation
Belonging
Inner peace and communion
Invites introspection
Heightened awareness
Symbolic Significance
My first strategy was to explore ways that I could transform airports into a space that accurately reflects people's idea of a sacred space
In my exploration, I uncovered a common belief held by people: sacred spaces go beyond physical structures. They need to be designed to promote meaningful conversations through intentional architecture and the inclusion of all individuals.
These spaces, I found, serve as catalysts for a sense of belonging. It's not just about the physical structure; it's about ensuring that the new space is free and open to any and all travelers.
Its important not to overlook the significance embedded in these spaces. Every element, from design to artifacts, carries a profound meaning, connecting people to something greater than themselves.
Strategy:
Collaborate with city stakeholders to ensure airports accurately represent the local culture Conversation
Residents
Local Community Boards
City Planning Department
Architectural and Design Organizations
Local Businesses and Retail Associations
Collaborating with residents, community boards, and city planning ensures a design deeply rooted in local aspirations.
Architectural partnerships infuse cultural aesthetics, while engagement with local businesses ensures and includes economic vibrancy for all. Its important not to overlook the significance embedded in these spaces. Every element, from design to artifacts, carries a profound meaning, connecting people to something greater than themselves.
Strategy:
Develop programs and services within airports that cater to travelers' emotional well-being Conversation
Culinary
Retail
Nature
Reading
Learning
In my pursuit of creating airports that go beyond mere transit hubs, I recognized the importance of catering to travelers' emotional well-being.
My vision for a redesigned airport space includes programs and services that enrich the airport experience across five key areas.
a revolutionary concept in airport design. Recognizing the untapped potential of airports as more than just transit hubs, our lounge aims to transform the traveler's experience and perception of airports.
Awards
Culinary
Retail
Nature
Reading
Discovery Hub
Culinary
Indulge in an extraordinary culinary adventure at our lounge, where we elevate dining into a journey of global flavors that beautifully mirrors the rich tapestry of New York's diversity. Curated to showcase the city's vibrant culinary scene, our experience brings together iconic eateries integral to New York's landscape.
Communal Dining
Interactive culinary workshops
Menu reflective of dietary restrictions
Retail
Curated collection of local stores
Here, shopping is not just a transaction; it's a journey of discovery, conversation, and cultural immersion.
This retail space transcends traditional boundaries, creating an atmosphere where shopping becomes a social and cultural adventure. Immerse yourself in a world where retail, conversation, and activity converge, making your airport stay not just a pause in your journey but a memorable part of your travel experience.
Dynamic and interactive environment
live demonstrations, workshops, and cultural activities that seamlessly blend with the retail experience
Tables designed for activity and conversation
Engage in conversations with knowledgeable staff who double as cultural ambassadors
Nature
A space that brings the tranquility of Central Park to the heart of your travel experience With a focus on providing a respite from the stresses of travel, this area minimizes the distractions, allowing you to immerse yourself in the calming ambiance.
Lush, Open space
NY park benches and lamp posts
Inspired by iconic parks worldwide.
While everyone has completely different experiences with airports, everyone brings up their experience with stress in relation to the airport
Airports should be and have the opportunity to reflect the unique culture of their location
Reading
As you wait for your journey, let the reading center transports you through the pages of diverse stories, fostering a sense of connection, understanding, and enrichment within the vibrant tapestry of your travel experience.
Beyond the traditional library setup, cozy reading corners offer a quiet haven for introspection, while communal spaces encourage the exchange of ideas and cultural insights among fellow travelers.
Neglecting the emotional aspect of travel can lead to a less satisfying experience for travelers, impacting their well-being and overall perception of airports.
Reading nook
Books available to borrow and return to any associated lounge
Discovery Hub
An area that encourages a spirit of mutual learning. For moments of personal reflection and religious observance, the Hub features a tranquil Prayer and Reflection Zone. This transformative space encourages language enthusiasts to come together, exchange phrases, and embark on a collective exploration of global languages.
Relaxation space
Prayer mats
Because diversity is what makes up the culture of airports The Discovery Hub encourages a spirit of mutual learning.
Interactive displays showcase cultural insights and global perspectives, fostering a space where travelers can exchange ideas, share experiences, and broaden their understanding of the world.
Engage in open conversations, attend talks, and participate in workshops that promote cross-cultural appreciation.
It becomes a rich tapestry of shared knowledge, cultural appreciation, and human connection.
Envisioning the future
Envisioning the future
In envisioning the future of airport spaces, we introduce a versatile lounge framework designed to seamlessly integrate into any airport environment.
This innovative concept is tailored to capture any city's dynamic spirit and cultural diversity. Whether nestled within the bustling corridors of JFK or the urban landscape of LaGuardia, this lounge framework adapts to its surroundings.
From curated culinary experiences to locally inspired decor, our lounge concept is a sacred space for travelers that redefines the airport experience.
A versatile lounge framework designed to seamlessly integrate into any airport environment
Tailored to capture any city's
dynamic spirit and cultural
diversity