A few days ago, I was mesmerized by vintage pictures of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) featured in an article by Los Angeles Magazine. The article, written by Jean-Christophe Dick, LAX Airport Historian and President of the Flight Path Museum, showcased the architectural visions proposed in the mid-1950s. These historical renderings evoked a sense of nostalgia and admiration for the foresightedness of the architects who viewed airports as not just transit points but as spaces that could offer memorable experiences beyond travel.
This took me back to a pivotal moment in my life as a young traveler at the age of 19. I found myself stranded at Madrid's airport, waiting for six hours with absolutely nothing to do. It was 1990, and I remember feeling frustrated by the lack of amenities or entertainment options. It struck me then that airports had the potential to be so much more than just places you hurriedly pass through.
Fast forward to today, and the landscape of airports has drastically changed. It's no longer surprising to see airports transformed into bustling hubs of retail, dining, and entertainment. Some travelers even arrive early to take advantage of these amenities, enjoying a peaceful and secure environment to shop, dine, or simply wander around.
The vintage LAX renderings made me smile, reflecting on how far we've come in reimagining what an airport can be. Architects and planners in the mid-20th century already envisioned airports as spaces of transition and delight. Their forward-thinking approach laid the groundwork for the #placemaking strategies we see today.
My career has afforded me the opportunity to work on projects where new airports and train stations were designed as integral parts of broader narratives. These projects emphasized the importance of creating spaces that enrich the travel experience, fostering a sense of community and engagement even in transit.
Looking at the vintage pictures reminded me of the importance of pushing the boundaries in conceptualizing and designing transportation hubs. Whether it's airports, ports, or train stations, these spaces should be more than mere conduits for travel—they should be destinations in their own right.
With the dawn of commercial space travel, we are likely on the brink of a new era in transportation. What will this mean for passenger experiences, logistics, pre- and post-flight conveniences, parking, or even retail? The possibilities are endless, and they underscore the need for innovative placemaking strategies.
I eagerly anticipate the new adventures that lie ahead, filled with opportunities to incorporate placemaking into the design of future transit hubs. By doing so, we can ensure that these spaces enhance the travel experience, making journeys not just about the destination, but about the joy of the experience itself.
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