Designed by ODG, a brand-new retail experience has opened at Larnaca International Airport in Cyprus, one of the fastest-growing airports in Europe, according to Airport Councils International.
The opening of this first phase marks the beginning of the entire airport retail refurbishment project undertaken by Cyprus Airports Duty Free, an Aer Rianta International Company who are working closely with Hermes Airports, to bring a ‘Best-in-Class’ shopping experience for its customers..
ODG’s overall task encompasses the design, engineering and construction review of the new retail spaces that will cover a total of 4,300 square metres across the entire airport. The design philosophy is to create an inspiring environment, where each retail category has its own identity that will catch the attention of travellers, engage them and help convert their attention into purchases. The design house, with proven expertise in delivering world-class Duty-Free environments at major international airports, will also review and coordinate the design of all the brands that will be featured.
The completion of Phase One of the project sees the opening of the walk-through duty free space, beginning with the Perfumes and Cosmetics offering. A key objective was to create a true Cypriot ‘Sense of Place’ within all the retail spaces. Drawing influence from natural and architectural influences, the design was infused with the effects of local materials and colours. The main walkway mirrors the pathways found in Cypriot villages. The ceiling, inspired by the way light filters through the branches of olive trees to create a dappled canopy effect which in turn helped create a sense of volume in the low ceiling area that makes up the Perfumes and Cosmetics category.
“With a new world-class Duty-Free concept we are leveraging the fast-paced growth of the airport. ODG has proven experience in Duty-Free design and engineering, and we are delighted with the results of this first phase. The team is continuing to work closely with us to deliver an exceptional environment that will delight all,” said Richard Gray, CEO of ARIME on behalf of Cyprus Airports Duty Free.
Hugo Vanderschaegh Managing Partner ODG, added: “There is a strong demand from medium size airports, train stations and travel hubs who have experienced a sharp rise in traffic numbers and are now looking to upgrade their commercial planning and retail experiences. Delivering the design and engineering at Larnaca Airport is a true honour for us and we are thankful to Cyprus Airports Duty Free for this opportunity. We look forward to the opening of the following phases that promises to be even more spectacular.”
The walk-through Duty Free assures all travellers will be guided through the categories while they traverse the airport. Ensuring maximum exposure to the retail offering, the space is designed and planned to comfort passengers about the direction as well as the time to reach the boarding gates, two factors that could be the main purchasing barriers in an airport.