The new No1 Lounge at Heathrow Terminal 2 opened its doors in December 2024. Offering travellers a peaceful and sophisticated space to unwind before a flight, the airport lounge has been designed with modern and contemporary styling. Guests can relax away from the bustling main terminal, while taking time to enjoy the dining and refreshment options.
Lighting design studio Akarui were appointed to create the lighting scheme for the new Lounge. Having been involved in a number of No1 renovations over the previous years, Akarui was the clear partner for this luxurious project.
Akarui’s lighting design embodies the essence of comfort, tranquillity, and refined sophistication. Designed to provide a relaxing retreat within the dynamic airport environment, the lighting plays a pivotal role in shaping an atmosphere where travellers can unwind before their journey.
Central to Akarui’s approach was the seamless integration of architectural and decorative lighting, ensuring that illumination is placed only where needed to craft the perfect ambiance. A palette of warm colour temperatures was carefully selected to create a sense of calm and well-being, reducing stress and creating an inviting sanctuary away from the airport’s high-energy surroundings.
Working in close collaboration with No1 Lounges and Resident Architects, Akarui meticulously designed a lighting scheme that adapts throughout the day and harmonises with the outside lighting. Given there is almost no natural daylight in the lounge, this was of particular importance, ensuring that the circadian rhythm of the guests was not interrupted.
Dynamic lighting scenes subtly shift in response to the time of day, enhancing the experience of guests. During daylight hours, slightly elevated light levels maintain a bright yet comfortable environment, supporting alertness and functionality. As evening approaches, the lighting transitions to a softer, more intimate glow, fostering a sense of relaxation before departure.
This approach was carefully balanced with the creation of a calm retreat, worlds apart from the busy main airport areas.
To ensure both longevity and ultimate flexibility for the end client, the lighting control system was carefully selected to provide seamless adaptability. This allows No1 Lounges to adjust lighting levels and scenes with precision, catering to operational needs while maintaining energy efficiency and extending the lifespan of the lighting installation. The result is a lighting scheme that not only enhances the passenger experience but also delivers long-term sustainability and ease of management.
This thoughtful balance between functional illumination and atmospheric enhancement ensures that the space remains both practical and immersive. The careful layering of light—blending ambient, task, and accent lighting—creates depth and warmth, while discreet lighting placements eliminate glare and visual fatigue. The result is a beautifully curated lounge environment that harmonises with the architecture and elevates the passenger experience.
Akarui’s lighting design for No1 Lounges exemplifies how light can transform a space, enhancing not only aesthetics but also the well-being of those within it. By embracing a human-centric approach and leveraging the power of dynamic lighting control, Akarui has crafted a timeless and elegant retreat within one of the world’s busiest airports.
