How to supply Furniture that is perfect for Airports

Airports are unique spaces that blend functionality, aesthetics, and the ability to handle high traffic 24/7. The furniture within these spaces plays a critical role in ensuring passengers’ comfort, enhancing the overall travel experience, and maintaining operational efficiency. Supplying the perfect furniture for airports requires careful consideration of several key factors. This blog will explore key considerations, trends and tips for providing furniture that enhances the functionality and aesthetic of airport spaces.

Understanding the Airport Environment

Airports are bustling hubs where passengers spend considerable time waiting, whether for check-ins, security checks, boarding or between flights. The environment is characterised by continuous use, diverse user needs and a demand for robustness and easy maintenance. Furniture must cater to a wide range of requirements, from seating and sleeping, to dining and working.

Considerations for Airport Furniture

Durability and Robustness

• High Traffic: Airport furniture must be able to withstand constant use and heavy foot traffic. Durable materials such as metal, high-grade plastic and treated wood are essential.
• Wear and Tear Resistance: Choose finishes that resist scratches, stains and other forms of wear. Powder-coated metals, laminates and high-pressure laminates (HPL) are good options.
• Maintenance: Furniture should be easy to clean and maintain. Smooth surfaces that can be wiped down quickly are ideal, especially in public spaces where hygiene is a priority.

Comfort and Ergonomics

• Seating Comfort: Passengers may spend long hours waiting for flights, so comfortable seating is crucial. Look for ergonomically designed chairs with adequate lumbar support, cushioning and armrests.
• Versatile Seating Options: Provide a mix of seating types, such as benches, individual chairs and lounge chairs to cater to different needs and preferences.
• Inclusive Design: Ensure furniture is accessible to all, including those with disabilities. This includes appropriate seat heights, armrests and accessible pathways.

Functionality and Adaptability

• Multi-Use Furniture: Airports need versatile furniture that can serve multiple functions. Consider modular seating that can be reconfigured, charging stations integrated into seating areas and tables that can accommodate both dining and working.
• Storage Solutions: Incorporate furniture with built-in storage to help passengers manage their belongings, such as under-seat storage, luggage racks and lockers.
• Mobility and Flexibility: Opt for furniture that is easy to move and reconfigure to accommodate changing needs and peak travel times.

Aesthetic Appeal and Branding

• Consistent Design: The design of the furniture should complement the overall aesthetic and branding of the airport. Consistency in colour schemes, materials and styles creates a cohesive look.
• Modern and Inviting: Airports are the first impression of a city or country. Modern, stylish furniture can create an inviting atmosphere and enhance the passenger experience.
• Cultural Integration: In international airports, consider incorporating elements that reflect local culture and identity to provide a unique and memorable experience.

Technology Integration

• Charging Stations: With the increasing reliance on electronic devices, integrating charging stations into seating areas and tables is essential. Look for furniture with built-in USB ports and power outlets.
• Connectivity: Ensure that furniture supports the technological needs of passengers, such as Wi-Fi connectivity and workstations with adequate space for laptops and other devices.

Areas of Focus in Airport Furniture

Waiting Areas

• Comfortable Seating: Prioritise ergonomic, durable seating with armrests and sufficient spacing. Include areas with privacy screens for added comfort.
• Charging Stations: Integrate charging stations into seating or provide standalone units to keep passengers connected.

Dining Areas

• Variety of Seating: Offer a mix of bar stools, communal tables and individual seating to cater to solo travellers, families and groups.
• Durable Tables and Chairs: Use materials that can withstand spills and frequent cleaning, such as stainless steel or laminate.

Business Lounges

• Ergonomic Workstations: Provide desks and chairs that support good posture and productivity, along with adequate power outlets and lighting.
• Quiet Zones: Design areas for quiet work or relaxation, with soundproofing elements and comfortable seating.

Security Checkpoints

• Efficient Layout: Ensure furniture placement supports a smooth flow of passengers through security checks, with clear signage and ample seating for those waiting.

Children’s Play Areas

• Safe and Fun: Provide soft, safe furniture designed for children, with vibrant colours and interactive elements to keep them engaged.

Airport Furniture Trends

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials

• Recycled and Recyclable Materials: The use of sustainable materials, such as recycled plastics, reclaimed wood and recyclable metals, is becoming more common in airport furniture to reduce environmental impact.
• Green Certifications: Furniture with environmental certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) ensures that sustainability standards are met.

Biophilic Design

• Natural Elements: Incorporating natural elements such as wood, plants and natural light can create a calming and pleasant environment for passengers.
• Green Spaces: Integrate green spaces and living walls to enhance the aesthetic appeal and provide a touch of nature within the airport.

Ergonomic and User-Centric Design

• Ergonomic Seating: Prioritise seating that supports the body and reduces fatigue. Features like adjustable recline, lumbar support and cushioned seating enhance comfort.
• Personal Space: Design seating arrangements that provide personal space and privacy, such as pod-style chairs or partitions between seats.

Modular and Flexible Furniture

• Modular Seating Systems: Furniture that can be easily reconfigured to accommodate different group sizes and arrangements is ideal for airports. This flexibility allows for better space utilisation.
• Multi-Functional Furniture: Incorporate furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as benches with integrated planters or tables with built-in charging stations.

Technology Integration

• Smart Furniture: The integration of technology into furniture, such as touchscreens, wireless charging and digital information displays, enhances the passenger experience.
• Connectivity Solutions: Ensure that furniture supports modern connectivity needs, providing ample power outlets and USB ports for charging devices.

Tips for Supplying Furniture for Airports

Collaborate with Airport Authorities

• Understand Requirements: Work closely with airport authorities to understand their specific requirements, regulations and standards for furniture.
• Customisation: Offer customisable solutions to meet the unique needs and branding of each airport.

Focus on Passenger Experience

• Comfort and Convenience: Prioritise comfort and convenience in all furniture designs to enhance the passenger experience.
• Accessibility: Ensure that all furniture is accessible and compliant with regulations such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Quality and Durability

• Invest in Quality: High-quality furniture is essential for withstanding the demands of a busy airport. Choose reputable manufacturers known for their durable and robust products.
• Regular Maintenance: Provide guidance on the maintenance and care of furniture to ensure its longevity and appearance.

Innovative Solutions

• Stay Ahead of Trends: Keep abreast of the latest trends and innovations in furniture design and technology to offer cutting-edge solutions.

• Flexible Designs: Offer furniture that can adapt to future changes and evolving needs, such as modular and multi-functional pieces.

Sustainability

• Eco-Friendly Options: Promote sustainable furniture options to meet the growing demand for environmentally responsible products.
• Lifecycle Considerations: Consider the entire lifecycle of the furniture, from production to disposal, to minimise environmental impact.

Airport Furniture Summary

Supplying the perfect furniture for airports involves a careful balance of durability, comfort, functionality and aesthetics. By understanding the unique challenges and requirements of airport environments, suppliers can provide furniture that enhances the passenger experience and meets the high demands of these bustling hubs.

Explore a wide range of airport furniture options at the Contract Furniture Store to find high-quality, customisable solutions that meet your needs and exceed your expectations. With the right furniture, you can create welcoming, functional and stylish airport spaces that leave a lasting impression on travellers.