REQA have been working alongside Belfast International Airport (BIA) since late 2024 to play a role in a cohesive design process focused on enhancing the overall look and feel of the terminal. One strand of this commission focused on the refurbishment of toilet facilities across three key locations within the terminal. After years of constant use—unsurprising in one of Northern Ireland’s busiest transport hubs—each required a considered refresh which started in the summer 2025.
The brief called for a solution that balanced robustness with a premium finish. The refurbished facilities design language needed to remain consistent with earlier toilet upgrades (completed between 2016-18), while also aligning with the airport’s current brand principles.
From a practical standpoint, the existing plumbing infrastructure was in good condition, allowing the general layouts to remain largely unchanged. Minor alterations were introduced to improve DDA compliance, while new cubicles and vanity units were installed alongside a completely refreshed ceiling design. Bespoke detailing and carefully considered lighting layouts helped elevate the overall experience.
Small spaces can have a big impact especially when the project focuses on premium aesthetics, practical considerations, and is built to last.
Beyond the toilets themselves, there were opportunities to creatively enhance the surrounding areas, whether within departure lounges or adjacent food and seating spaces. The formation of new corridor lobbies allowed the entrances to the facilities to stand out more clearly, while well-integrated signage played an important role in supporting intuitive passenger movement and way-finding.
The material palette was deliberately simple yet refined. A minimal monochrome scheme of matte joinery was paired with stone solid-surface sinks and counters, accented by mosaic wall tiles and terrazzo floor finishes. Together, these elements provide durability while maintaining a premium aesthetic appropriate to the terminal environment.
Bespoke bronze cladding was used selectively to further elevate the design. BIA were keen to explore how their brand could be subtly embedded within the architecture, and the incorporation of brand colours and iconography into the cladding resulted in a bespoke way-finding solution that feels integrated rather than applied.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the project was the development of the Parent Rooms. We strongly advocate for these spaces to be approached with care and intent, and BIA’s commitment to passenger experience made for a highly collaborative process. In one lounge, we were able to expand and reconfigure the room to create a calm, comfortable environment—offering a brief moment of respite within the constant activity of the airport. Privacy vinyl was introduced to the glazing, allowing uninterrupted views over the runway while maintaining discretion from the outside.
A toilet refurbishment only succeeds when approached with the right intent. Functionality, durability, and compliance—particularly in relation to DDA and Access & Use—were central to the brief, reflecting the fact that toilets are among the most heavily used spaces in any public building. BIA placed their trust in our design and coordination process, working closely with specialist contractors to ensure the project was delivered as intended. The result is a series of spaces that not only achieve a premium finish but also contribute meaningfully to the wider programme of terminal enhancements.
