Hong Kong – Lead8, the award-winning international firm of Architects, Masterplanners, Interior and Graphic Designers, has been appointed lead designer for the planned Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) Terminal 1 renovation. Working with Airport Authority Hong Kong, Lead8 will spearhead a collaboration of internationally renowned consultants to deliver a transformative upgrade to the passenger halls of the 21-year-old iconic aviation hub.

The Boarding Gate Transformation project is expected to be completed in 2021. Lead8’s design scope includes a total overhaul and upgrade of the 49 boarding gates and adjacent areas of the Level 6 departure concourses.

The renovation work will include upgraded technologies at all boarding gates, along with new and refreshed beam seating across all departure waiting areas. In addition, retail and service cabins will be upgraded with more convenience for passenger access, all targeting to deliver a more fluid experience for travellers.

“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 Christine Hau, Co Founder & Executive Director of Lead8.

Contemporary seating designs with upgraded charging facilities will provide passengers with convenient and comfortable waiting experiences. The retail and service cabin facilities have also been upgraded to offer a rejuvenated environment for awaiting passengers.

Lead8 have also curated a number of entirely new experiential zones that will provide places of entertainment, relaxation, on-the-go work and general down-time spaces for passengers awaiting flights.

The Boarding Gate Transformation project at HKIA Terminal 1 adds to Lead8’s aviation portfolio which also includes the appointment as Lead Architect on SKYCITY, Hong Kong’s largest future retail, dining, entertainment destination. In addition, the company has also secured a major role as commercial landside terminal Lead Designer on the new Beijing Daxing International Airport to be completed in the first half of 2020.