International architecture and design firm Lead8 has been appointed as the lead designer for the renovation of Hong Kong International Airport’s Terminal 1. 

At 570,000 square metres, HKIA’s Terminal 1 is the third largest airport passenger terminal building in the world. It was built by a consortium of consultants led by Mott Connell and completed in 1998. The renovation of the terminal is slated for completion in 2021. 

Working with the Airport Authority Hong Kong and a host of internationally renowned consultants, Lead8 will deliver a major overhaul to the terminal’s interior dubbed The Boarding Gate Transformation project. 

The scope of the project includes upgrading the terminal’s existing 49 boarding gates and adjacent areas of the level 6 departure concourses. The project is the firm’s first major aviation project.

“The refreshed look of the terminal will bring an inviting ambience that combines new technological features to convey convenience and comfort to the terminal’s local and international travellers when transiting to and from Hong Kong,” said Chris Lohan, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Lead8.

The refreshed Terminal 1 will include new seating with charging facilities, updated technologies at boarding gates, upgraded retail and service cabins, and new experiential zones for entertainment, relaxation, on-the-go work and quiet downtime spaces for passengers awaiting flights. 

“The combined enhancements of the transformed facilities at Hong Kong International Airport’s signature Terminal 1 building will further solidify our city’s status as a key international and regional aviation hub,” said Lohan.

Images courtesy of Lead8.