Few design firms better Foster + Partners way with volume and materials when it comes to airline buildings. Lord Foster’s work with Beijing’s hub is a modern masterpiece, and we still wish that we had more reason to fly via Stansted, one of those not-quite-London airports. These are spaces that still represent the thrill of travel.
The new First Class Lounge in The Wing, Cathay Pacific’s flagship premium passenger space at Hong Kong International Airport, is a small but perfectly formed piece of Foster + Partners magic that started work back in late 2010. The structure is eco-friendly as well as dazzling: bamboo and eucalyptus – both from sustainable sources – have been used as key building materials.
It’s the transparency that we like most: the space is flooded with natural daylight. There’s also a new area that offers a clear view of the runaway while enjoying pre-dinner gin and tonics. Inside there’s The Haven, a dining room that’s now double the size of the original, with a new à la carte menu complemented by recommended wine pairings as well as a buffet with Asian and Western dishes (we can never get enough of those steamed dumplings!).
There’s a new Champagne bar, with a variety of free flowing Champagnes throughout the day: quite a difference from the usual “just act casual”, undignified and always obvious migration toward the bar at other lounges the minute a cork pops.
There’s also The Cabana, with five individual units offering a shower, full-sized bath and comfortable day bed, and 12 separate luxury shower units for a quick pre or between-flights freshen up.
The Wing’s First Class Lounge is open to First Class passengers, Diamond Marco Polo Club members and Emerald oneworld members. Opening hours are from 5:30am until the last departure.