Recently, DU Studio has been awarded the Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport T1 and T2 Terminal Space Enhancement Project, which entails a comprehensive environmental and commercial upgrade of the T1 Arrivals Public Area and the T2 East Food Gallery. The renovation of the dining areas in Terminals 1 and 2 of Hongqiao Airport focuses on enhancing the commercial atmosphere and overall image, with the aim of strengthening future investment and operational capabilities, while infusing the space with humanistic and artistic qualities. This will help shape a distinctive first impression of Shanghai for arriving passengers.

@DU studio 

Given the need to maintain normal operations during construction, our design follows the principle of "light renovation, emphasis on enhancement," minimizing structural changes while optimizing the spatial experience. In T1, the ceiling is a key element of the transformation—by cleverly utilizing the original height variations, we extended a warm wood-toned ceiling design to create an open and welcoming visual effect, reinforcing entry visibility and overall identity. The main entrance now features an outdoor seating area, comfortable seating, logo signage, and advertising spaces, significantly boosting its appeal.

@DU studio

In the main commercial passageways, elements such as seating and carpeting, greenery, improved side signage lighting, and forward-positioned store signs have been introduced to activate the internal commercial atmosphere and increase passenger dwell time.

Additionally, a "Hongqiao History Wall" has been installed in the secondary passageways of T1, using visuals and text to showcase the airport’s development, enriching the space with cultural depth and historical context.

In Terminal 2, we created a high-quality resting area inside the food corridor, integrating greenery and soft lighting to provide a relaxed and pleasant dining environment. Side signage was also added to improve the visibility of shops on both upper and lower levels. Along the outer corridor of the food corridor, guiding signage has been placed at key points, and a distinctive "Shanghai Food Map Wall" was designed on the express passage wall. This not only draws passengers’ attention to the dining area but also introduces them to Shanghai’s unique food culture and urban charm.

An airport forms the first impression of a city. Through design, we aim to infuse humanistic care and local character while meeting functional efficiency, ensuring that every passenger can feel the warmth and quality of the space upon arrival or during their wait.