An airport’s interior really can shape the passenger experience. It has the unique ability to build expectations for a holiday not yet experienced, extend memories of a place just visited, and welcome home members of the local community. We wanted to encapsulate the feeling of the local region with its many amazing sights, experiences and nature on both land and sea, bringing the diverse experiences of North Queensland to the interiors of the check-in and arrivals halls.

The terminal’s existing structure was built in the 1990’s with a large triple height central atrium. A building of this scale can be difficult to refurbish - new finishes that sit alongside old can highlight the aged elements and be detrimental to the overall aesthetics of the space. To make a lasting impact, we took the view that simple interventions would be best implemented together with the existing structure and form.

It was important in the design process that we could create a result that was durable, sustainable and local. Applying these core principles within the design and materials selection process has resulted in:

𝗗𝗨𝗥𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘: Robust floor tiles and materials implemented throughout the terminal to reduce the likelihood of fast turnover and replacements

𝗦𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘: Major elements – like the ceilings, concrete columns, and metal façade structure – were retained or refreshed meaning the airport was able to reuse elements without negatively impacting the overall outcome

𝗟𝗢𝗖𝗔𝗟: All stone used in the project was sourced from a local quarry 200km west of Cairns. The timber is Queensland maple, grown in plantations throughout northeastern Queensland. All loose furniture is Australian designed and made, supporting our local manufacturing industry and reducing shipping

The result is a simple, clean light filled space for travellers in a comfortable tropical setting. The simple intervention has highlighted and framed the views to the atrium with lush rainforest planting, and the seating and plants offer clusters of spaces to shelter in the large space. The large walls within the space will act as future canvasses for artwork, to bring the culture of the local community into the space.

The refreshed terminal feels much more connected to its location and environment with the qualities of natural light and materials coming from within the local landscapes of the region. We’re proud of how these well considered, sustainable design decisions will have a significant impact on visitors saying hello and goodbye to this beautiful part of Australia on their travels.

Read more about the project here.

Photography: Robert Gesink and Bang Media