Designing Calm Spaces for Travelers Amid Construction

By Hennebery Eddy

The new patio addition to the Alaska Lounge at Concourse C provides extra seating for 30 Alaska Airlines customers.

Portland International Airport is undergoing major changes as part of the PDX Next campaign touching nearly every aspect of the airport. With all this construction, our client Alaska Airlines wanted to increase their offerings and create more space for traveler respite. Building on our understanding of both Alaska’s people-first brand and the complex inner-workings of PDX, Hennebery Eddy designed two new spaces for lounge members.

In Concourse C, we helped Alaska enlarge the existing lounge with the design of an enclosed patio, adding seating space for 30 people. In Concourse B, we designed a temporary “express lounge” with seating for up to 35 people and grab-and-go options. While these spaces are intended to be demountable and re-deployable, it was also critical that they meet Alaska’s high standards and stellar reputation for customer service, operational efficiency, and elevated brand identity.

The wood-and-glass structures and refined finishes offer a sense of privacy and serenity amidst the bustling concourse. With a range of comfortable seating types, we incorporated Alaska’s established lounge themes related to welcoming, refreshment, and relaxation. While exciting changes are in store at PDX, Alaska’s lounge members don’t have to wait to enjoy a little pre-flight pit stop.