Guest Column - HOK
Airport Design That Calms Travelers’ Journeys
By: Kirtan Patel, AIA, LEED GA, Regional Leader of Aviation + Transportation
Kirtan Patel of HOK’s Aviation + Transportation group shares strategies for airport and transportation designers to alleviate passenger stress.
Picture yourself rushing through an airport: long security lines, frantic gate searches and incessant announcements. Even seasoned travelers feel anxious. Among the strategies designers use to reduce stress are three basic elements: lighting, cleanliness and layout.
Lighting
Lighting affects people’s moods and circadian rhythms. Warm orange glows encourage relaxation. Neutral white light promotes alertness. Cool blue light sharpens attention.
Neutral white lighting at security checkpoints maintains passenger alertness without being overwhelming. Concourses with warm oranges, neutral white light, floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor terraces (like at Long Beach Airport, below) promote tranquility.
Cleanliness
Sensitivity toward cleanliness has increased in recent years, especially in dining spaces and restrooms. LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal B demonstrates this through open dining areas and easily cleaned tables. Restrooms feature touchless appliances and spacious layouts.
At Salt Lake City International Airport (below), individual plush seats give passengers their own comfortable, secure space.
Layout
Long security lines create stress and reduce passenger spending and leisure time in the terminal. Consider Disney’s approach: Despite long theme park lines, clearly marked zones and engaging diversions keep guests entertained and informed.
At LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal B, security lanes with clear markings and visual cues help direct passengers. Beyond security, spacious areas and pocket parks offer places to regroup and refresh.
Refreshing Airport Designs
Through thoughtful choices about lighting, cleanliness and layout, designers can airports that enhance the entire travel experience.