As you rush through a bustling airport, wrestling with your luggage, it’s easy to overlook the intricacies of the space around you. However, behind every airport lies a world of meticulous design and thoughtful planning.
In a prestigious celebration of architectural excellence, the Prix Versailles award for 2025 has been bestowed upon the Harvey Milk Terminal 1 at San Francisco International Airport. This sleek and modern terminal, named in honor of LGBTQ+ rights activist Harvey Milk, has transformed a 1960s structure into a cutting-edge, energy-efficient hub for global travelers.
Collaborating with UNESCO, the Prix Versailles awards recognize outstanding achievements in interior design and architecture. The 2025 jury, composed of architects, artists, and fashion designers, carefully deliberated on the winners, ultimately recognizing the groundbreaking design of the San Francisco airport terminal.
Reimagined by Gensler in partnership with Kuth Ranieri Architects, the terminal focuses on creating a “quiet airport” experience, offering spaces that are visually and auditorily serene. The design aims to provide a sense of place and grounding for passengers before embarking on their journeys.
Despite its minimalistic aesthetic, the Harvey Milk Terminal 1 boasts a range of amenities, such as children’s play areas, museum exhibits, and even a yoga room. The airport’s dedication to providing a multifaceted experience for travelers sets it apart from conventional airport designs.
Recently, the SFO Museum, the only AAM-accredited museum located within an airport, unveiled a new exhibit at the San Francisco Airport. Dubbed a “hidden gem” by airport officials, the exhibit showcases a journey through aviation history, featuring a replica of the original 1937 terminal and an extensive collection of aviation books.
In addition to the San Francisco airport, other terminals honored by the Prix Versailles jury include Marseille Provence Airport’s Terminal 1, awarded for its interior, and the Main Terminal at Portland International Airport, recognized for its exterior design. World Selection awards were also presented to terminals in China, France, and Japan for their exceptional contributions to airport design.
The recognition of the Harvey Milk Terminal 1 at San Francisco International Airport highlights the significance of architectural innovation in transforming everyday spaces into extraordinary experiences for travelers worldwide.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.