For the Lucknow Airport, we were commissioned by Adani Airports Private Limited to execute the design as developed and curated by Incubis Consultants India Private Limited. The project aimed to create a seamless travel experience while celebrating the essence of Lucknow and India at large. It focused on enhancing passenger experience, efficiency, and ambiance, incorporating elements like Lakhnawi literature, arts, cuisine and history.
AKFD Projects used parametric and other advanced design tools to interpret the design vision, such that it is executable, and fits within the projects budgetary and time constraints.
Rohu Inspired Skylights
A stunning sculptural installation at Lucknow Airport creatively diffuses sunlight while celebrating Uttar Pradesh's symbol, the Rohu fish. This fish, deeply rooted in the region's culture and featured on many significant structures in Lucknow, represents the Ganges River, the stateʼs lifeline.
The innovative design serves as both a functional skylight and a sensory experience, resembling an enchanting underwater world. The continuous wave-like forms, intricately detailed, transform the airport's ambiance into a tranquil space. Passengers experience dappled light reminiscent of underwater ripples as they move through the terminal.
The installation features 13 skylights, each 60 feet above the ground. Made of aluminum sheets and inspired by the Rohu fish, these skylights filter natural light during the day and emit a soft glow at night, enhancing the airport's grandeur and serenity.
Phoolon Ki Gali / Basant Bahar
Basant Panchami highlights the cultural confluence in Uttar Pradesh, from Vrindavanʼs yellow spring hues to Lucknowʼs Phoolon Wali Gali with its vibrant blossoms. The city hosts exhibitions of landscaped gardens, flower arrangements, and potted plants. The "Basant Bahar" installation captures this floral celebration with blown glass flowers crafted by Firozabadʼs skilled Kanchhkars.
This diaphanous, multisensory piece recreates Basant Panchamiʼs atmosphere, offering a cheerful farewell to departing passengers while blending ancient craftsmanship with modern design. Firozabad, known for its glass bangles and chandeliers, has a rich history dating back to the 16th century.
The installation features intricately woven, translucent flowers, vividly colored to enhance the departure experience.
Swaagat Wall
Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, boasts a captivating skyline, especially during festive occasions. The city's rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels create a unique charm with its grand arches and regal splendor.
As evening falls, the vibrant markets and historic streets like Hazratganj and Aminabad light up with the energy of shoppers and revelers. Local fairs and melas further highlight Lucknow's celebratory spirit, with rides, street vendors selling kebabs and sweets, and a warm, festive atmosphere.
The Swaagat Wall installation, crafted from hexagonal tiles with brass-embossed patterns, is the first artwork to welcome visitors at Lucknow Airport. This piece reflects the city's rich cultural heritage and traditions, creating a memorable first impression and symbolizing the lasting charm of Lucknow.
Chikankari Wall
Chikankaari, a traditional craft of Lucknow, was chosen. The delicate motifs of Chikankaari embroidery were etched onto a solid acrylic surface, illuminated from behind to accentuate the intricate patterns. This process involved hand illustrations, which were digitized and digitally produced before being mounted onto the wall in a precise grid.
Alaap Wall
The Aalaap wall in the baggage reclaim section displays various scenes representing Uttar Pradeshʼs vibrant culture, landscape, and traditional crafts. Hand drawn illustrations of these scenes are digitally printed onto large wooden panels, in a lateral reference to the inlay techniques of Saharanpur.