USA. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is to more than double the existing retail and dining area of its North Satellite building as part of a US$636 million renovation.
The current 19,000sq ft retail and dining space will be increased to 46,000sq ft. The Port of Seattle and sole building tenant Alaska Airlines said the aim was to increase the number and variety of options available, which would be “tailored to the preferences and needs of the Pacific Northwest traveller”.
The modernisation project has been dubbed NorthSTAR (North Sea-Tac Airport Renovation) and includes a 240ft extension of the building. An upper level mezzanine, a rooftop Alaska Airlines lounge with views of the Olympic Mountains, and eight new gates will be added.
Dufry operates the duty free business at the location, having won a seven-year contract in 2012.
The renovation project has been initiated largely in response to continuing growth in passenger traffic at the airport. It has set annual passenger records for the past five years, with 42.3 million travellers in 2015. This represents a +12.9% increase over 2014.
Groundbreaking is scheduled for the first quarter of 2017 with a first phase expected to be completed in 2019. The fully upgraded facility is scheduled to open in 2021.
“This project, which will include new gates, increased dining and retail options, and more robust Wi-Fi and connectivity, is critical for meeting the region’s needs at Seattle-Tacoma Airport for the next 25 years,” said Port of Seattle Commission President John Creighton.
“Renovations will open up the building with natural light, bring the feeling of movement and travel inside and express the culture of the Pacific Northwest with cost efficient, environmentally friendly functions and materials including a living wall and collecting rainwater to supply flushing water to the restrooms throughout most of the year.”
Alaska Airlines Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Harrison commented: “With upgraded facilities and additional gates, the improvements to the North Satellite will enhance the travel experience for our customers and employees and accommodate the continued growth of the airline.”
NorthSTAR’s design is inspired by Washington’s natural environment of native rivers and water, the partners said, with its articulated roof form becoming the signature visual element. The interior will feature wide, day lit concourses constructed of materials, colours and finishes inspired by the Pacific North West environment.
