Project Description
Lisbon International Airport wanted its exciting new retail space to express a true spirit of this remarkable city – blending Lisbon’s classic heritage with its contemporary dynamism.
The inspiration for our design was found at our feet – on the streets of Lisbon. We were motivated by characterful old neighbourhoods such as Bairro Alta and Alfama, the world-famous Azulejo ceramic tile-work and the traditional stone-paved paths that draw the visitor to explore the city. We wanted our store designs to inspire the passenger to explore the stores and make exciting discoveries – just like a journey through this atmospheric city!
Local natural materials feature strongly, including extensive use of the theme of natural woods, cork, rope and ceramics. These elements, including a stunning giant frame used as a vaulted timber ceiling in the Taste of Portugal zone, convey not only the natural beauty of Portugal’s forests but also the city’s deep nautical heritage.
The customer journey along the main walkway is guided by a series of 3 metre diameter floor inlay discs formed in marble ‘cobble’ tiles, featuring faithful replicas of Lisbon street designs – each one inviting the passenger to explore a new chapter of the retail story. Positioned above each of the feature floor discs are circular light fittings that create a series of illuminated halos along the main walkway, guiding the passenger to a world of retail discoveries.
Blending tradition and modernity. Classic Lisbon floor pavement designs have been subverted as inlay detail within the floor plate, signposting new discoveries to be found in the store.
Behind a clear glass facade incorporating sliding doors, genuine vintage cigar boxes are integrated within a minimal lightweight frame to form an intriguing internal portal into the humidor. The natural beauty, scale and strength of the vaulted timber ceiling feature over the Premium Port Cave space creates a more intimate and luxurious environment.
“Every Lisboeta – and every visitor – will have their own favourite example of the city’s intricate and mesmerising urban paving that is the inspiration behind our design. The design provokes a powerful link to the city and its amazing architectural heritage, creating a sense of place on every step of the passenger journey.”
Nick Taylor, Director of Design, The Design Solution
The new duty free store features an additional 450sq m of space, according to concession holder ANA Aeroportos/VINCI Airports. Sense of Place features heavily in the store’s design, with Portuguese paving and tiles among the elements that are emblematic of Lisbon.
