How to get comfy in our Helsinki Airport non-Schengen lounges

The design process for the upgrade of our Helsinki Airport non-Schengen lounges was thorough and coincided with the design of our new long-haul cabins. We wanted to find a look and feel that would be recognisably and uniquely Finnair.

The aim was to create a whole new design language that would be something distinctly Nordic with natural elements. You can, for instance, experience lots of different lighting and lamps in our lounges, which make them have a residential feel.

The work was done in collaboration with our design partners and Finnair's internal design team and a lot of feedback was gathered both internally and from customers. 

Our team found out what element resonated, and for example, a dark blue colour was something they gravitated towards. Finnish and Nordic design, both contemporary pieces and real classics, are also a crucial part of the lounges.

Both lounge spaces aim to cater for a wide variety of customer needs – always with maximum comfort in mind. To demonstrate this, here are five ways you can get comfy in our lounges.

1. Enjoy a perfect level of relaxation and privacy

The lounges and their seating arrangements have been designed to fit customers who pop in quickly, as well as those who might stay and relax for several hours.

As you move further back in the lounges, the more chilled out and private it gets. This means that you can stay at the front of the space for a quick coffee, a meeting or a meal – or go deeper into the space where it is quieter and read a book or work in private.

2. Feel the materials and see the design

The spaces make use of natural, tactile materials such as stone and wood. This creates an inviting and home-like atmosphere. We have also focused a lot on beautiful and calming lighting. This has been achieved using some great design classics, such as the Artek A110 lamp, also known as the hand grenade.

In both spaces, the mix of classic and contemporary makes for an interesting and aesthetically pleasing experience.

3. Get your remote work done

The lounges are optimally suited for work as well. There are printing facilities, free internet access, and seats with USB and AC power. To make phone calls or virtual meetings easier, you can use the private phone booths. If you are staying for a bit longer and need to keep your laptop safe, you can use the lockers available at the entrances.

4. Have your favourite coffee, meal or drink 

An important part of the lounge experience is, of course, food and drink. Both the Business Lounge and the Platinum Wing have fully stocked bars – the latter offering some special options in addition to the high-quality standard selection. All of the cocktail options are also available as mocktails. Platinum Wing also serves coffee barista style, so you can count on a perfect latte.

Both lounge spaces make use of seasonal Nordic ingredients in their food offering. In the Business Lounge, the food is served buffet style, while in the Platinum Wing, you can enjoy a full restaurant dining experience with table service.

5. Refresh and rejuvenate

The Platinum Wing has a Finnish sauna, and it is proving to be very popular among locals and visitor alike. There is no better way to interrupt a hectic day of travel than a quiet moment in the heat. Of course, there are also private shower suites and organic skincare available. In the Business Lounge, you can also find shower facilities, so you can make sure you are re-energised before your next flight or meeting.