20 years of the First Class Terminal: architecture for every rhythm

The Lufthansa First Class Terminal in Frankfurt is unique in the world: a complete airport terminal that is intended exclusively for First Class passengers. A stylish atmosphere, excellent service, convenient check-in – since it opened more than one million people have already followed their individual rhythm here. The architects Bernd Hollin and Alexander Radoske look back on their creation with pride: "We had worked with Lufthansa before, but the First Class Terminal was an extraordinary assignment."

When they were tasked with the design, they quickly realized that the guests, as frequent flyers, would be very familiar with the Lufthansa brand. The new terminal should therefore be something unique. In the design, the classic Lufthansa colors have been reinterpreted with warm earth and stone tones while the simple, linear design also emphasizes the brand’s elegant restraint.

The variety of different areas represented a particular challenge: lounge and office units, restaurant and bar, bedrooms and sanitary facilities – everything had to have equal space in the layout in order to meet the diverse needs of the guests later on. Alexander Radoske describes the idea as: “Less a classic airport terminal, more an authentic hotel.”

The architects, who have now been working together for 35 years, searched for inspiration worldwide. Their path led them to Hong Kong, where they studied the concepts of well-known designer hotels and bars. The notion of well-being was always the focus of their observations.

To give guests space for their personal experiences, the architects renounced exuberance and boldness when designing the First Class Terminal, aiming instead for quality and restraint: “Like a notebook in a classy cover, which is given a personal touch by your own handwriting,” comments Bernd Hollin.

Authenticity is brought about by functionality, in particular. For, as Hollin explains, they kept two different guest requirements in mind: “Some are in a hurry and want to get on the plane quickly and easily. Others have more time; they can relax, linger, and enjoy the many amenities.”

The architecture of the First Class Terminal was intended to reconcile both requirements and harmonize the different human rhythms. According to Radoske, the intuitive routes around the terminal made this possible: “Although guests get through quickly and are not held up on their way, those who want to fully enjoy their stay are not disturbed.” Hollin and Radoske's interior design and floor plan were intended to harmonize both rhythms and strengthen the authentic feeling of being able to be who you want to be. This creates inner contentment and trust in the brand.

With the Lufthansa First Class Terminal, Bernd Hollin and Alexander Radoske realized a building that, thanks to its timeless architecture, still reflects the zeitgeist after 20 years. By transferring the clarity of the Lufthansa brand to the building’s structure, they created a space that appears familiar to guests. A place that harmoniously combines efficient travel with a stylish stay, thereby offering guests the freedom to follow their very own rhythm – for an authentic lifestyle.