BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, announced that Suvarnabhumi Airport has been recognized by UNESCO as one of the six airports on the World’s Most Beautiful List for 2024.
In addition, Suvarnabhumi’s Satellite Terminal 1 (SAT-1) has been nominated for the prestigious Prix Versailles award in the Airports category by the Prix Versailles Selection Committee, in collaboration with UNESCO. The winners will be officially announced on December 2, 2024, at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France. The award criteria assess architectural design for beauty, both exterior and interior, as well as creativity, innovation, and integration with social and environmental contexts.
Minister Suriya noted that SAT-1 showcases outstanding architectural design, cultural identity, and a strong commitment to enhancing the passenger experience and environmental sustainability. The terminal highlights the elegance of Thai culture, creating a memorable impression for visitors to Thailand. Airports of Thailand (AOT) designed SAT-1 to blend cultural strength with aesthetic appeal, fusing Thai architectural and artistic elements with modern structural design.
The terminal’s interior incorporates Thai culture, with the third floor featuring a garden adorned with mythical Himmaphan creatures, while the second floor, designated for arriving passengers, is designed as a transit garden showcasing landscapes integrated with Thai art and culture, including traditional Thai puppetry, grand shadow plays, Khon masks, and Thai kites.
At both the eastern and western ends of the terminal, golden shrines known as Suwan Busabok and Rattan Busabok are installed, housing Buddha statues in the “Mara Vichaya” and “Opening the World” postures, inspired by Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, to bring auspiciousness to the location. Meanwhile, the restrooms reflect the unique identities of Thailand’s regions, with interior designs featuring murals representing Thailand’s four regions and traditional Thai customs. Additionally, all restroom fixtures are equipped with automated systems to help conserve water. (NNT)
