Beyond hotels and restaurants, commercial environments, like travel hubs and multipurpose concepts, set a new precedent for the future of shared spaces. The three highlighted here each demonstrate our desire for efficiency, ingenuity, and, most of all, community.
Beijing Daxing International Airport
Photo by Hufton+Crow
Zaha Hadid Architects kicked off 2020 with the reveal of its hypnotic design for the Beijing Daxing International Airport. Nicknamed “starfish” for its radial layout, the striking and abstract project totals 7.5 million square feet and features a central hub attached to five airport piers—a nod to traditional Chinese architectural principles that orient interconnected spaces around a central courtyard. The design also maximizes efficiency by minimizing the distance between check-in and the terminal’s 79 gates. Plus, six undulating forms descend from the vaulted roof to guide travelers toward the central nucleus. Read the full story.
Fields Club
Photo by Ravi Asrani
The 15,000-square-foot Fields Club in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India supports the region’s flourishing tech industry and aims to promote a healthier work-life balance. Located within the Orchid Whitefield residential development, Studio Lotus and StoryStudio partnered on the design of the recreational hub. The space comprises a material palette of concrete, timber, steel, ceramic tiles, and marble that is offset by vibrant furniture and décor. Inspirational murals by local artists also punctuate the interior, while arch-shaped forms support a cohesive design narrative. Beyond housing a coworking space on the ground floor, Fields Club also features lounge areas and health facilities, including a gymnasium and spa. Read the full story.
Flourist
Photo by Conrad Brown, styled by Kate Richard
Vancouver-based studio Ste. Marie oversaw the design of Canadian bakery and mill Flourist’s debut storefront, and was guided by principles of simplicity, utility, and honesty. The warm, monochromatic palette of malty tones echoes the grains and pulses found onsite, while tall floral arrangements and Baltic birch pay homage to both Shaker design and Scandinavian minimalism. Communal tables and large windows wrap the mill to further engage visitors in the breadmaking experience. Read the full story.
