Brussels Airlines • The ‘Sunrise Lounge’ at Brussels Airport
'Architecture without architects'
In order to improve airport logistics, as well as passenger and baggage flow, Brussels Airport Company and Brussels Airlines have relocated their Africa departures to a new dedicated zone at the end of Pier A referred to as T-Gates. The new T-Gate zone has been totally refurbished encompassing a brand new Brussels Airlines Lounge (the Sunrise Lounge), new relax areas, a dedicated kiddies corner and a new bar.
‘Architecture without architects’
After our successful collaboration with Brussels Airlines on the rebranding of Brussels Airlines at Brussels Airport and the design of the b.house, MAXIMALdesign has been commissioned to create a concept for the new business lounge in the T-area with the demanding Africa business traveller in mind.
The main objective consisted in creating a warm, cosy and friendly environment that provides all the essential facilities for the passenger, whether in transit or checking in at Brussels Airport, while preparing for his or her long-haul flight. Inspiration was drawn from the essence of the black continent: ‘architecture without architects’, the indigenous touch of natural and local materials, textiles in the broadest sense, used as garments, dividers or sunshades and of course the magic source of life: the sun; hence the SUNRISE lounge, where all elements are blended in a contemporary design that reflects the past, present and future of the African continent that never ceases to move…
The Sunrise Lounge has several zones:
• The welcome desk assists the travellers and guides them to some relaxing time. A secured cloakroom keeps coats and luggage safely stalled.
• The business lounge features high-speed internet access terminals and has access points for laptops. More services can be acquired from the help desk, which also has a library with recent international magazines and newspapers.
• A shower room allows passengers to freshen up during transit or before their long-haul voyage. There are 3 spacious cubicles with washbasin, walk-in shower and seat.
• Further down the area, passengers can enjoy the lavish food and drinks buffet with refreshments and snacks or breakfast service.
• A brasserie area with 30 seats and a great view over the tarmac.
• The Sunrise Lounge also features a quiet lounge where passengers can enjoy stretched-out seating, high-fidelity headphone experience by JVC or a short shut-eye experience…
• Finally the light lounge has comfortable seating, a kids corner and 2 large plasma screens. At the heart of this space MAXIMALdesign created an intimate salon where small parties can gather with their travel companions to experience why this area is called the SUNRISE lounge as on clear days, the breathtaking views over the runways are magnified with the stunning magic of flamboyant sunrises.