Autoban have achieved further shortlist success in the International Yacht and Aviation Awards 2014  with their project “Heydar Aliyev International Airport” entering the Airline Lounge category.

Submitted by: Autoban

Interior Designer: Seyhan Özemir, Sefer Caglar (Autoban)

Exterior Designer: ARUP

The design concept of the terminal interior is based on breaking away from the typology of conventional airports that overwhelm passengers with their scale, standards and technology.

The design takes inspiration from the hospitality feature of Azerbaijani culture, and the country’s recent social and economic transformations, the aim has been to create a welcoming, comfortable and contemporary environment generating a sense of belonging and a homely feel – a brand new passenger experience. This approach also encouraged unconventional thinking in terms of forms, materials and production methods.

The largest interior components are custom-made wooden cocoon units installed at social areas in an attempt to create different perceptions of height to break the monotony, and to bring the gigantic proportions of the airport down to human scale. Containing cafes, ticket kiosks and other amenities, cocoons create a sequence of spaces within the shell of the airport’s vast interior.

Characterised by a simple palette of natural materials (wood and natural stones) that are unlikely to be used at airports, the interior is highlighted by indirect soft and warm lighting.

While all the furnishing and lightings are custom-made for the project giving a sense of continuity, there are also project-specific details developed on the basis of high volume of terminal traffic, functionality and comfort. Check-in and passport control areas are equipped with floor-fixed furniture whereas food and beverage, lounge, cocoon and VIP zones contain flexible furniture.