I am fascinated with airport architecture and design, and it is being reported this week that the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey is looking for developers to turn the iconic TWA Terminal at JFK Airport into the lobby and entryway of a boutique hotel. Opened in 1962 under the name Trans World Flight Center, it was designed by Eero Saarinen and was touted as the “Grand Central of the jet age.†Saarinen also designed Washington Dulles’ Main Terminal and the St. Louis Gateway Arch. In 2005 the National Park Service added the Flight Center to the National Register of Historic Places.
Photo credit: Todd Lappin (Telstar Logistics)
If they can tastefully design a hotel around the terminal (is that even possible?), I’d be all for it. Also, the hotel would remiss if they didn’t offer airline and airport geeks like me a ‘TWA Experience.’ I would encourage an Ambassador Class room category featuring era-appropriate and TWA-themed artwork and furnishings. In fact, I would happily consult on the project, so let this post serve as my letter of interest and desire to work with the future developer.
(Photo credit link)
Hmm. I don’t know how a hotel would fit in adjacent to this iconic terminal.
It’s a shame it won’t be put back into active use, but I like your “Ambassador” ideas.
@Matthew: Yup, I wonder how it can be done, but I’m already on board dreaming up really swank Ambassador rooms!