A creative multimedia ecosystem mixes the physical and digital, elevating the passenger experience at Hamad International Airport’s latest feature: Orchard. The large indoor garden, one of its many attractions, is a standout because it combines nature with the contemporary conveniences of a global travel center. November 2022 saw the formal opening of Orchard, which is intended to improve the passenger experience in addition to being a sight to behold.
The Inside Tropical Jungle in Qatar's Hamad Airport
The International Airport (HIA) in Doha, Qatar, is known for its luxurious amenities and innovative design. Orchard was designed as a component of the expansion project, which sought to enhance the airport's amenities and capacity. Commencing in 2019, the wider extension project was a reaction to Qatar's increasing prominence as a worldwide aviation hub, particularly in light of the nation's preparations to host the FIFA World Cup back in 2022.
Photo: @delaram.mahboubin
But talking about today, Orchard was designed to provide tourists with a little moment of peace despite the stress of air travel by establishing a calm setting inside the airport.
This tropical indoor jungle is ideally positioned to cater to many travelers arriving in or leaving Doha. This garden, with its 268 square-meter water feature, was designed to be a focal point for all travelers, and it accomplishes that goal with ease. Featuring more than 300 trees and over 25,000 plants and shrubs, it benefits from lots of natural light and an approach designed to create a calming ambiance and promote a sense of well-being.
Highlighted Features of Orchard
The focal point of the design is a sizable indoor garden with a wide range of plant types, from little shrubs to enormous trees. The plants were specially chosen to flourish in the airport's regulated indoor environment, which has a unique climate control system that replicates natural circumstances.
A 5-minute video showing a full view of the green indoor project:
Orchard's 575-square-meter water feature is one of its most remarkable spaces. The rich vegetation and this peaceful water feature combine to create a relaxing and visually meditative atmosphere that is far different from what you would find at an airport. Several walking routes, seating sections, and observation spots are also included in the design to let visitors explore and take in the environment at their own leisure.
Qatar's Airport Offers Benefits to Travelers
The inclusion of Orchard within the airport offers several benefits to travelers. Primarily, it serves as a stress-relief area, allowing passengers to unwind before or after their flights. Studies have shown that exposure to nature can reduce stress levels, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being, which is particularly important for travelers who may be dealing with the stressors of long flights or layovers.
Moreover, it provides a green breathing space, making it an aesthetic experience and a destination worth exploring. For passengers with extended connecting flights, the garden offers a welcome diversion, helping to pass the time pleasantly and engagingly. The presence of retail and dining outlets within Orchard also adds convenience, allowing travelers to shop and eat without leaving the calming environment.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations in the Orchard Project
Sustainability was a key consideration in the development of Orchard. The plants selected for the garden were chosen not only for their beauty but also for their ability to survive and have the best maintenance in the specific indoor environment created within the airport. The airport’s climate control system ensures that the plants receive optimal conditions for growth while minimizing energy consumption. This focus on sustainability reflects Qatar’s broader commitment to environmental progression, as seen in various national initiatives.
The use of natural light is another sustainable feature of the project. The large glass ceiling above the garden allows ample sunlight to enter the space, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. This design choice not only supports the growth of the plants but also contributes to the overall energy efficiency of the airport.
Orchard’s unique design shows a column-free, grid shell roof that controls and filters the light required to maintain the rainforest trees, promoting a sense of well-being. Any person who travels through Qatar uploads their pictures on IG because it's a space to admire. Everyone instantly goes 'wow'! Are you ready to get impressed?
Featured image by @prn_asia.
