Virgin Heathrow Upper Class Lounge

2006


Helle was project architect on the multi award-winning Virgin Lounge at Heathrow while at Softroom architects, London.

The lounge is described by Softroom:

Virgin Atlantic Upper Class isn't about getting from A to B. It's about the experience: excellence delivered with flair. We were asked to bring this spirit to life for the airline's flagship Clubhouse at Heathrow. We created a lounge that helped define Virgin's reputation for hospitality, and entertainment. The 2,500 sq m space -designed to a budget of £11 million, and completed in 2006 - includes a library, bar, deli and full-service restaurant, as well as a full range of travel facilities. It's practical, and spectacular. Inspired by the city of London and the landscape of the British Isles, we created an open, flowing space punctuated by a series of ‘landmarks’: a space that invites you to explore. The sweeping ceiling creates a feeling of walking under a wide, undulating sky. With such an open design, balance was key. At the heart of the lounge is a 14m-long cocktail bar and dining area: an ever-busy social hub. Around the perimeter, quieter areas, like the spa and hot tub, offer sanctuary.

Almost 2 decades after its opening, the Clubhouse continues to attract attention. It was voted ‘Best Airline Lounge’ by the industry, and ‘Best Airport Lounge in the World’ by passengers.

The Clubhouse has become one of an iconic brand’s biggest icons.

As Richard Branson put it: “As we moved into the airline business, we did not forget that focus on comfort and quirkiness. Virgin Atlantic is as famous for its outstanding airport lounges as it is for its Upper Class suites. The one at Heathrow is my favourite.” - Virgin

  • Awards

  • Best Business Class Airline Lounge, World Airline Awards 2022

  • Europe's leading airline lounge, World Travel Awards 2016

  • DesignAir's Top 10 Airport Lounges, 2015

  • World's leading Airline Lounge, World Travel Awards 2014

  • Europe's leading airline lounge, World Travel Awards 2013

  • Best Airport Lounge, Travel Awards 2011

  • Best Airport Lounge, Ultra Awards 2010

  • Best Airport Lounge, Business Travellers Awards 2009

  • Best In Show, Design Week Awards 2008

  • Best Hospitality Environment, Design Week Awards 2007

  • Yellow Pencil / Environmental Design / Leisure & Tourism, D&AD Global Awards 2007

  • Outstanding Achievement, D&AD Global Awards 2007

  • Best Business Class Lounge Award, World Airline Awards 2007

  • Superior Design, Red Dot Award 2007

  • Best Airline Lounge, British Travel Awards 2006

  • Best Airline Lounge, Skytrax 2006

  • Best Leisure or Entertainment Venue, FX Design Awards 2006

Modern airport lounge with curved ceiling and large windows, featuring lounge chairs, small tables, and a bar area.
Modern hotel bar with a sleek white ceiling, a long white bar counter stocked with bottles, colorful seating including yellow, brown, and beige chairs, small white tables, and some greenery in the foreground.
Modern hotel lobby with white curved seating, small white tables, and wooden accents, illuminated by soft ambient lighting and decorative glass dividers.
Modern lounge with contemporary furniture, illuminated by floor and table lamps, featuring a pool table and large windows with city view.
Modern, stylish living room with unique furniture and a skylight overhead.
Modern indoor hot tub area with steps leading into a round hot tub, stainless steel handrails, orange and beige lounging cushions, and a large rainfall showerhead overhead.
A modern staircase with dark marble steps, glass railings, and LED lighting, located in an upscale building interior.