An Arrival Hall Shaped by Nature, Materiality and a Calm Danish Atmosphere
The arrival hall at Billund Airport is the first encounter with Denmark for millions of travellers every year. The ambition was to create a space that is robust, functional and welcoming, capable of handling continuous high-volume traffic without losing a sense of calm. The result is an arrival experience where nature-inspired design, material choices and precise execution form a cohesive whole.
Client
Billund Airport
Project
Arrivals hall Billund, Denmark
Size
4,800 m²
A Welcoming Arrival Hall Rooted in Danish Culture
Ambiente was tasked with designing the arrival hall at Billund Airport with the ambition of creating a space that is both functional and welcoming. The interior reflects Danish culture and spirit, offering travellers a calm and positive first impression upon arrival. Colours were carefully selected and used strategically to support flow through the space, ensuring that visitors can move naturally without feeling overwhelmed or distracted.
Colours, Materials and Organic Forms
Green tones, organic shapes and natural wood elements were introduced to soften the hard surfaces typical of an airport environment. These elements create a welcoming atmosphere and add warmth to the space while maintaining clarity and orientation. The colour palette was kept balanced and restrained to avoid visual confusion, supporting both movement and short stays in the arrival hall. References to Danish nature and culture help create a sense of place without dominating the overall experience.
Challenging Constructions and Bespoke Solutions
A key part of the project involved the development and construction of bespoke interior elements. Circular benches and long tubular runners with lean-to boards and game boards were produced in round steel and required careful planning and precise execution. To ensure correct assembly and functionality, the long structures were divided into smaller segments and coordinated in detail throughout the process. This approach made it possible to realise the complex constructions while maintaining accuracy and durability in a high-traffic environment.
A Functional and Lasting Arrival Experience
Despite the technical challenges, the project resulted in an arrival hall that successfully combines aesthetics and function. Symbols such as rune stones, windmills and references to Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales contribute to an authentic experience of Danish culture. Today, approximately four million travellers pass through the arrival hall each year, using a space designed to support efficient movement while offering moments of comfort. The final result is a robust and welcoming interior that highlights Denmark’s spirit of hospitality and curiosity.