We were thrilled to be selected by Graham Baba Architects to bring their concept to life and provide a unique flat weave carpet for the newly completed Alaska Airlines Flagship Lounge at the SeaTac International Airport in Seattle, Washington. Now, travelers have four distinct zones to delight in as they prepare for flights. Whimsically titled, Come In – the approachable entry; Help Yourself – a casual bistro; Take a Breath – a relaxation space; and Cut Loose – the lively bar.
The sections are defined by flooring, color, and wood and metal screens. These elements allow the spaces to flow together while appearing separate. Perhaps the greatest accomplishment of the zones is the choice of design and material selections. These allow each space to have its own acoustic and light quality. Unique materials divide each space seamlessly and entice exploration while also supplying intimacy.
For our Talk Carpet range, the designers chose a flat weave carpet to bring versatility, eco-friendly elements, and durability to serve the space’s functions and vision.
Why Flat Weave Carpet
Because some of the spaces, such as “Take a Breath,” needed sound-absorbing elements, the designers needed a particular carpet. But the interior design required a unique feel, so it couldn’t just be any regular carpet. It needed to be a flat weave carpet. Constructed in a traditional way, it is formed on a warp. Parallel, connecting fibers form elaborate patterns and lush colors. The detailed construction of flatweave carpets ensures they’re high quality and durable. For areas with a lot of foot traffic, it’s an ideal choice.
Design Choice
Graham Baba chose the Rawline concept by ege carpets for its innovative yet chic flatweave carpet style.
In Velvet Blue, this specific flatweave carpet combines traditional wovens with injection dye technology. This technique blends to give the floor a unique look of denim that reflects light and dark.
Designed by Helle Lykke Jensen and Louise Søe Oxlund, the large-size squares in the collection provide an acoustic and practical advantage. The artisanal texture is one only flat weave carpet can provide. Rawline Scala is made from regenerated ECONYL® yarns from used fishing nets. An Ecotrust felt backing adds to the environmental qualifications as it is made from used PET water bottles. These features add acoustic properties and made Scala a practical and environmentally solid choice.
The Result
Now, as you look around at the interior design, you’ll see twenty-foot floor-to-ceiling windows framing views of Mount Rainier. At the same time, an oversized fireplace serves as an interior focal point. The division of zones creates a feeling of intimacy where there is little — the bistro counter can accommodate up to 100 people.
Adorning the rooms are chaise loungers, fabric banquettes, and a carpet that blurs the transition into the indigo-dyed bar front.
In the end, Alaska Airlines wanted to transform the space into a business travelers’ sanctuary. It’s now a multi-use, functional and intriguing series of rooms connected to the Pacific Northwest. We think they’ve exceeded themselves.
