New Special Assistance Area at London Gatwick by Race

Race Furniture were commissioned by London Gatwick Airport to furnish its new North Terminal lounge for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM). With the project representing an investment of £2m, the special assistance area has been designed to have the feel of a premium lounge and features bespoke chairs adapted by Race from its Ernest Race Heritage Collection. 

Approximately 19% of the UK population have a disability and 11% a hidden disability, with around 7% of the population avoiding air travel because of their disability.

Design Insider Race Lounge Purple Chairs

“We are delighted to open this new area for passengers who require special assistance and have taken great care to ensure the facility offers a premium style feel while also meeting the needs of our passengers.” – Andy Pule, Gatwick Airport Terminal Operations Head

Gatwick’s new assistance area is a clear demonstration of its commitment to provide a positive experience for passengers requiring assistance while travelling. The lounge represents one of the biggest of its kind in any European airport. The new space can accommodate 90 people and is twice the capacity of the previous area.

Design Insider Race Lounge Table and Chairs

Ernest Race (1913 – 1964) was a key figure in early twentieth-century British design, the specification of iconic Ernest Race furniture has produced a distinctive area, mixing the modern and retro. The classic furniture designs are contemporary with the 1940’s and 50’s development of Gatwick. The project consists of the BA3, the DA and the Heron all custom made to suit the project brief. This project has concentrated on the issues of wear, serviceability, cleaning and ergonomics. The Eglin LS airport seating and touchdown stools were furnished in Gatwick’s own fabric depicting the scenes and landmarks of London.

Race Furniture worked closely with Simon Burchell, project manager and David Browne, design manager of Gatwick Airport Ltd, in conjunction with interior designers,  3D Reid Architects.

Design Insider Race Lounge Beige Chairs

Has this piece been a source of inspiration for your latest project? Let us know! Alternatively, why not contact Race to find out what they can do for you? Race’s portfolio encompasses standard, customised and bespoke products, and it provides a complete technical and creative service tailored to ensure the perfect solution.

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