The 1500 sqm Kandinsky Lounge at Sheremetyevo International Airport, Moscow comfortably accommodates over 320 guests in a layout which is based around a central core and gallery. These link two separate lounge areas, one at either end, and contain the reception, washrooms, shower rooms, meeting rooms, sleeping rooms and a small library / gallery facility.
Our remit was to create an interior that provides a memorable, comfortable, relaxing and characterful guest experience while ensuring that front of house and back of house circulation overlap as little as possible to ease flow for each.
The design language is based around simple geometric forms and bold colour accents inspired by the pioneering, Russian abstract painter, Wassily Kandinsky, after whom the lounge is named and examples of whose work feature along with other Russian artefacts and works of art to highlight the depth of Russia’s artistic talent.
One wing contains various choices of lounge seating types, two quiet more private zones, one to work in, the other to relax in, a cyber café with an adjoining snack and beverages facility, two TV viewing zones, a family lounge, a kids’ room and a smoking room.
The reception desk is faced in high quality, bronze metalwork and its sculptural, aerodynamic form, which appears to float above the floor, subliminally evokes flight and travel while subtly pointing guests towards the lounge areas. A ribbed timber ceiling with a dynamic light feature connects the lifts to the reception desk as a welcoming device.
The predominant background wall treatment in the main walkway and lounge areas is a neutral veneered panelling with sections of vertical matching timber fins which allow enticing, veiled views between areas. A textured matt finish wall covering is used where a quieter, softer ambience is required.
The other wing contains a 70 cover dining area with a substantial buffet counter offering hot and cold food and beverages and a small bar with both being serviced from a large main kitchen behind.
Ribbed dark timber wall cladding is used here to differentiate the area’s function, to provide a different experience for the guests and to show off the bright colours and textures of the food and beverages offers in an enticing manner.
Adjacent there is a further comfortable lounge seating area containing a mix of high-backed armchairs, club chairs and sofas.