John Wayne Airport lounge
Colors, materials, and finishes (CMF)
Skills: Sustainable CMF · LEED Material Specification · Biophilic Design · Commercial Interiors · Color Psychology · Eco-Conscious Branding · Regional Storytelling · Public Space Wellness
Redesigning the current John Wayne airport lounge at Orange County to localize it with its environmental elements, showing the pride OC citizens have for their region, as well as using this as an opportunity to create a sustainably motivated airport lounge that can provide comfort to travelers while boosting the pride of locals. Following the airport’s initiatives towards a sustainable future, the lounge qualifies for LEED certification. From wallpaper made to be recyclable, tabletops made from aluminum (80% recyclable), to low VOC paint, this lounge is about 70% sustainable.
ASSESSMENT
A design that seeks to highlight the unique relationship Orange County has with its nature, the wallpaper is heavily inspired by animals commonly spotted in Orange County, the colours of the lounges reflect late sunset, greenery, and the unique flowers that only blossom in summer, commonly spotted at the 133 highway. The colours are chosen to rejuvenate the mind and relax its occupants through the use of calming contrast; the two different lounges serve the purpose of calming and rejuvenating clients respectively.
The Lounge brand name, Nebula and Fusion, conveys the intertwining link between nature and the psychological human relationship.
Overview
Colors, Materials, And Finishes (CMF)
The Nebula Lounge draws inspiration from the natural rhythm of Orange County’s skies—where red sunsets blend seamlessly into the coming dawn. This quiet transition between night and morning invites travelers to pause, relax, and reflect with hope for what lies ahead. The space embodies both serenity and sophistication, reflecting the pride and dignity of the people of Orange County.
The Fusion Lounge is inspired by the connection between the natural world of Orange County—especially its native animals—and the people who live and travel through it. This space reflects a vision of harmony between humans and nature, where both coexist and thrive together. Designed for travelers arriving at John Wayne Airport, the lounge offers a place to recharge after a long flight and ease into the experiences that await.
Colors, Materials, & finishes (CMF).
Colors, Materials, & finishes (CMF).
MATERIAL STORY
Sustainable, Eco-Friendly, Recycable
ARTE:
From a vision of beauty, Arte always strives to combine craftsmanship, quality, and sustainability in all its activities. Therefore, in line with its sense of social responsibility, Arte is striving for a positive and sustainable combination of design, emotion, people, and the environment. Arte is committed to offsetting residual emissions. Having achieved the international, officially recognized carbon-neutral label, Arte’s mission is to take climate change seriously. Arte prefers to take concrete action by offsetting their residual emissions. This CO! neutral label can only be obtained by means of a thorough, annual, company-wide audit by the external organization Southpole
MAHARAM:
In an ongoing effort to reduce its environmental footprint, Maharam has achieved ISO 14001 certification for all its facilities. Further, Maharam is committed to sharing its best environmental practices within the contract textile community to foster environmental innovation. Through ISO 14001, Maharam is committed to minimizing the environmental impacts of its business practices, including, but not limited to: Reduction of energy consumption, Reduction of water consumption, Reduction of paper consumption, Reduction of waste through recycling, Optimization of textile finishes, Facilitation of “green cleaning”, Providing incentives for employee purchases of hybrid vehicles
CHEMETAL:
Chemetal has a strong commitment to green practices. Many of its metal products are made entirely of aluminum, the most recycled material on the planet. Some of its aluminum finishes contain up to 85% recycled content, offering builders and architects LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) credits.
Overall Achievements
Redesigned an airport lounge to reflect local environmental elements and regional pride. Localized brand identity through nature-inspired CMF motifs referencing Orange County's flora and fauna. Specified sustainable materials for LEED qualification, including aluminum surfaces and low-VOC paints. Integrated dual lounge experiences (Fusion & Nebula) to meet contrasting traveler needs: rejuvenation and calm.
Curated color palettes that reflect sunset gradients and organic life to reinforce the human-nature connection. Collaborated with material brands committed to ISO and LEED sustainability standards. Refined passenger experience through tactile finishes and calming contrasts