Project Description
A powerful local vision – inspired by bees…
Having previously worked on the new Duty Free store (2014) at Athens International Airport we were then engaged to create a retail transition zone in the Schengen Departures area, between the Decompression Zone and the Duty Free space.
Our first challenge was to create a design that blended with the existing architecture of the airport’s Schengen Departures area, building direct synergies with the airport architecture, particularly through the shape and form of the dramatic pergola within the duty-free store. This holistic approach created a natural flow from the terminal and through into the store, delivering a seamless experience for passengers.
Echoing the key cultural importance of honey in Greek heritage, both culturally and commercially, the key inspiration of the design is the classic structure of the honeycomb within a beehive. This design not only created a stunning natural link to the location but also reiterates the structural dynamism of the pergola feature, blending nature with technology and classic style with a contemporary edge.
The east and west retail zones are subtly linked through the design of the floors and ceiling features, including floor paths that draw shoppers to visit both zones and explore all the categories.
The design integrates a natural flow from the terminal and through into the store, guided by the colour and shine of the pathway, delivering a clear journey for passengers and welcoming them into a distinctly Greek experience.
Further local cultural references are used throughout the space, especially in the use of local timber patterns and marble flooring, consolidating the airport’s strong emphasis on local products and brands within the retail offer and further deepening the unique sense of place.
The P&C areas adopt a more contemporary edge that addresses the challenge of exposed air conditioning pipes and venting in the ceiling by integrating these into the design. The slim, modern asymmetrical structure of the ceiling pergola in white blends with the background utilities, creating a clean sculptural effect.
The holistic impact of the sculptural qualities of the design theme is further reflected in the store fixtures, giving cohesion and identity to the whole space.
