Project Description
A challenging space – transformed through design.
Terminal 2A opened in 1995 and 12 years later, Terminal 2B opened. Each terminal operated independently but with landside and airside links. This challenging layout was a clear impediment to maximising the airport’s non-aeronautical revenue. When Hochtief took control of the airport, they embarked on a process to identify the best way to integrate the terminals through re-developing the old office building between the two.
Using the two existing check-in halls, we planned a building with a new security comb for each that channelled passengers through a Heinemann operated walk-through duty free shop. Passengers then enter and onto ‘SkyCourt’, the dramatic double-height departure lounge that is flooded with natural light. This dynamic space is complemented by the surrounding retail and the clear views of the apron from the central seating area. Overlooking is a mezzanine animated by a food court and restaurants, along with airline lounges.
The dramatic departure lounge ensures that all passengers can see all of the commercial facilities. The wayfinding is in intuitive, which ensures that all visitors know precisely where to board their aircraft and thus driving both passenger satisfaction and non-aeronautical revenue.
At the mezzanine level, there is a food court, restaurants and lounges, all with views over the departure lounge and outside, giving passengers an engaging environment and a distinct Budapest experience.
“This was a challenging project but it resulted in one of the best commercial environments we have ever created. It’s a great example of a terminal that breaks rules, with split security channelling passengers into a single walk-through duty free shop and a F & B mezzanine that it is visible, easily accessible and successful.”
Robbie Gill, Managing Planning, The Design Solution
TENANTS DESIGN GUIDELINES AND APPROVALS
The first task was to set a stage on which incoming retailers and food & beverage operators could perform; whether they were local, national or international. The next task was to ensure that each performed beyond expectations, and we therefore produced a tenants’ design guidelines to inspire and encourage the concessionaires’ designs. Following that, we scrutinised all of their design submissions and made practical and creative suggestions in order to create a showcase of original and profitable designs that was subsequently welcomed by all parties.
