Bengaluru Airport unveils Gate Z, a Gen Z-inspired social lounge

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) has unveiled Gate Z, a first-of-its-kind social lounge inspired by the Gen Z mindset, reflecting the evolving expectations of modern travellers. Designed to move beyond traditional waiting spaces, Gate Z combines comfort, culture and community, offering an intuitive, social, and lifestyle-focused environment for passengers.

As dwell time increasingly becomes part of the travel experience, the lounge responds to new passenger behaviours. Positioned next to the 080 International Lounge in Terminal 2, Gate Z features fluid pathways, social-first zones and curved seating that balance interaction and moments of pause. Ambient lighting, interactive zones and AI-led features support navigation, personalisation and convenience, enabling travellers to work, unwind, socialise or enjoy solitude. The design blends global influences with local touches in food, art and décor, while sustainable materials and a warm palette of cyan and burnt orange create a contemporary and welcoming atmosphere.

Gate Z includes themed spaces catering to diverse needs. Bubble & Brew is a café-bar for pre-flight refreshment, The Sipping Lounge offers laid-back comfort for downtime or conversation, Subway Diner provides a playful, retro-inspired dining experience, and The Amphizone functions as a modern amphitheatre for screenings, pop-ups and events.

The lounge’s name was inspired by a nationwide contest inviting young creative voices to contribute. Entries from students, designers and professionals shaped the space, highlighting inclusivity and co-creation as core principles.

George Bennet Kuruvilla, Chief Executive Officer of Bangalore Airport Services Limited, said: “Gate Z reflects BLR Airport’s intent to design spaces that respond to how travel is experienced today, as part of a broader lifestyle. By inviting young Indians to name Gate Z, we ensured the space remains relevant, expressive and people-first.”

Gate Z reinforces BLR Airport’s broader approach to experience-led design at Terminal 2, blending architecture, culture, sustainability and passenger comfort. The lounge exemplifies how the airport is redefining the passenger journey, creating spaces that go beyond transit and meet the expectations of modern travellers.

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