A new standard for travel has been set. San Francisco International Airport’s Harvey Milk Terminal 1 has been declared the world’s most beautiful airport, a testament to design that transcends mere functionality.
The prestigious Prix Versailles, an international architecture and design award, bestowed the honor upon the terminal, which opened its doors in June of this year. This isn’t simply about aesthetics; it’s a recognition of how thoughtfully crafted spaces can elevate the human experience.
At the heart of the terminal lies a powerful and moving exhibition dedicated to Harvey Milk, the pioneering gay rights leader. Through evocative photographs and carefully preserved historical materials, visitors are immersed in his life, his political journey, and his enduring legacy in San Francisco.
The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Travelers have taken to online forums, sharing their awe and appreciation for the terminal’s blend of artistic expression and immaculate design. One user described it as exceeding all expectations for a modern airport.
Airport Director Mike Nakornkhet expressed profound gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the historical significance of naming a global airport terminal after an LGBTQ+ icon. He credited the entire project team for achieving this remarkable milestone.
The Prix Versailles also highlighted other exceptional airport terminals around the globe. Yantai Penglai International Airport’s Terminal 2 in China, the arrivals terminal at Roland Garros Airport in Réunion Island, France, and Terminal 1 at Kansai International Airport in Osaka, Japan, all received accolades.
Special prizes further acknowledged design excellence. Marseille Provence Airport in France was celebrated for its stunning interior design, while Portland International Airport in Oregon earned recognition for its main terminal’s overall impact.
The Prix Versailles extends its scope beyond airports, recognizing outstanding architectural and design projects across a diverse range of categories – from university campuses to museums and hotels. The jury’s focus isn’t solely on visual appeal, but on the power of design to shape our world.
The award serves as a reminder that architecture and design can be transformative forces, capable of inspiring, educating, and honoring those who have fought for a more just and equitable world.
