Travelers passing through San Francisco International Airport (SFO) can now experience the latest in airport lounge design with Alaska Airlines’ newly unveiled lounge. Located in the recently renovated Harvey Milk Terminal 1 (T1), this 11,000-square-foot space is the product of a thoughtful collaboration between Alaska Airlines and William Duff Architects (WDA). The result is a sophisticated yet inviting space that sets a new standard for airport lounges. It reflects both the airline’s brand identity and the creative spirit of the Bay Area, while also responding to the demands of modern travelers.
Maximizing Space and Comfort
Alaska Airlines’ new lounge at SFO is designed with a focus on functionality and comfort, making it an ideal place for both business and leisure travelers. One of the primary objectives of the design was to increase seating capacity, and WDA accomplished this by strategically arranging the lounge into distinct zones. Each area, from the relaxed “Take a Breath” section to the dynamic “Cut Loose” space, is carefully crafted to suit different needs. For instance, comfortable banquettes offer a space for long stretches of relaxation, while private phone booths provide a quiet escape for those needing to work or make calls. The lounge also features a mix of communal and private spaces, balancing both social and solitary experiences.
Natural light pours in from multiple sources, ensuring a bright and airy atmosphere throughout the lounge. The careful use of ceiling treatments and furniture arrangements not only defines each area but also creates a sense of continuity across the space. By softening the lines and adding curves, WDA’s design helps the space flow seamlessly, ensuring that it feels open and welcoming despite its size.
Unique Design Elements Reflecting San Francisco
One of the lounge’s most striking features is its incorporation of local culture and landscapes, particularly the Golden Gate Bridge shrouded in fog. This eye-catching, 40-foot laser-cut metal acoustic wall is located between the “Help Yourself” area and the bar. Serving as both a functional acoustic feature and a visual focal point, the wall is a nod to the distinctive San Francisco landmark, giving the lounge a sense of place and a connection to its surroundings.
This element exemplifies WDA’s ability to blend artistic design with practicality. The wall not only helps manage the noise within the busy lounge but also becomes a symbol of the city, grounding the space in the local identity. It’s a thoughtful touch that goes beyond aesthetics, adding layers of meaning to the lounge’s overall design.
Efficient Design Meets Passenger Needs
Alaska Airlines’ lounge at SFO serves a practical purpose while also enhancing the travel experience. As the largest carrier at T1, Alaska Airlines serves millions of passengers annually, and the new lounge is designed to accommodate their needs in a variety of ways. WDA worked to ensure that the lounge offered six distinct types of seating, catering to different preferences. Whether travelers want to relax in plush seating, grab a quick bite at the buffet, or catch up on work with a laptop, the lounge provides multiple options to suit all sorts of travelers.
The design also pays close attention to flow and accessibility, ensuring that transitions between different areas are smooth and intuitive. This design approach makes the lounge feel less like a generic airport space and more like a personalized environment where each traveler can find their own corner of comfort.
A Harmonious Blend of Function and Style
At its core, the Alaska Airlines lounge at SFO is a space that blends modern design with the practical needs of travelers. WDA’s careful attention to detail and understanding of both the airline’s brand and the airport environment has resulted in a lounge that feels both innovative and functional. With its open, light-filled spaces, local design elements, and thoughtful layout, the lounge provides a refreshing pause for those navigating the bustling airport. For Alaska Airlines, it’s more than just a place to wait—it’s an extension of the brand’s commitment to providing quality service and a comfortable environment for all passengers.
