Working within the existing structure of the airport, the interventions respectfully lift the interior experience, improving capacity, comfort and accessibility though layered movement, spatial variation and interest.

The conceptual framework elevates the existing infrastructure through purposeful, human-centred interventions that embed the spirit of South Australia. Guided by values of inclusion, accessibility and wellbeing, the five projects – Gate Lounges, International Arrivals, Children’s Playspace, Sensory Room and VIP Suites – prioritise the passenger experience within a cohesive interior vision.

Woods Bagot Director Rosina Di Maria says the design philosophy adopts a user-led approach that balances operational performance with warmth and clarity, articulating a future-focused vision for aviation interior.

“The overarching design vision is directly linked to the passenger experience: it starts with people – with the traveller, the airport employee, with those who live in Adelaide and those who visit it. It’s a taste of South Australia as a state and what it can offer,” says Di Maria.

“Airports are measured by the people who use them,” she continues. “Adelaide Airport wanted to create a signature that was functional as it was beautiful. For us, it was about how you serve functionality equal to design, while making something enduring.”

A highly contextual response, the design weaves in the stories of the Kaurna People, the Traditional Owners and first inhabitants of the land. With the guidance of cultural consultant Karl Telfer, the design pays homage to the site’s history as a significant former wetland, incorporating the stories of Witongga tarto (reedbeds). The ecological history and Kaurna concepts of Deep Time are referenced through spatial planning, materiality and detail, grounding the interiors in place, culture and identity. 

Senior Associate Hayley Packer says the airport had a bold vision for the overhaul with a strong focus on inclusive design. “Spaces such as sensory rooms, small play spaces, and large family gathering spaces consider the myriad needs of staff and visitors,” says Packer.  

“With a diversity of users, we focused on providing spaces that were truly inclusive, providing furniture and joinery settings for people to choose from, that could be influenced by mood, ability, or specific user needs.”

Within the new interventions, Woods Bagot designed a dedicated sensory room, providing an environment for regulation in a high-stress environment. Featuring acoustic treatments, soft lighting, integrated nooks and retreat spaces, the sensory room was recognised as an exemplary consideration by the Minister for Autism.

Di Maria says that the contemporary airport is a personable, human-centric space which, beyond a terminal to gently usher people through the mechanics of interstate and international travel, can be a positive place to linger in and of itself.

“Historically, the purpose of airports was based directly on how you move people from A to B for the ultimate purpose of travel – through security, through gates, and through boarding process,” says Di Maria. “Today, we’re starting to see the experience of those passengers within the airport environment, blending those lines between activity and process so they don’t even feel present.”

The design privileges long-term value for the airport, integrating a layered sustainability strategy that prioritised retention, refurbishment, and quality new investments to stand the test of time.

“For us, it’s about focus on supporting local economy and reducing our carbon footprint,” says Packer. “As designers, we’re focusing on that content a lot more, as are our clients. It’s an opportunity to promote local talent and stimulate regional economy, while embedding principles of placed-based design into our projects.”

Adelaide Airport says the redevelopment has succeeded in creating a welcoming environment where every user feel like they have been considered, within a space that is both a memorable experience and a reflection of South Australia.

“The Passenger Experience Enhancement Projects have elevated how our customers experience our space,” a spokesperson for the airport said.  “The design puts people first and has given us flexible, welcoming spaces that make travel easier for everyone. These upgrades aren’t just nicer to look at; they improve how people move through our terminal and prepare for their journey.

“Adelaide Airport’s vision is to be everyone’s favourite airport, and by creating the backdrop for the first hello and the last goodbye in a warm, welcoming space, Woods Bagot have helped us bring that vision to life.”

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Isla Sutherland
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