Designed by: @beyerblinderbelle

Captured by: Eric Laignel

The TWA Hotel at JFK International Airport restores and reactivates the former TWA Flight Center, originally designed by Eero Saarinen in 1962. Vacant for more than 15 years, the landmark building now serves as the hotel’s lobby while preserving its architectural character and historic significance. The project transforms the terminal into the centrepiece of a broader hospitality complex that combines accommodation, dining, retail and event spaces.

Located behind the restored Flight Center, two new hotel wings accommodate 512 guest rooms, while a 46,000-square-foot conference centre is positioned below ground between the original TWA connecting tubes. The programme also includes restaurants, retail spaces, a 10,000-square-foot public observation deck, a rooftop pool, a health club and a museum dedicated to the history of TWA, Eero Saarinen and the Mid-century Modern movement.

The project is the only hotel located within the JFK Airport property, serving both air travellers and visitors to the wider New York metropolitan area. The restored Flight Center remains the focal point of the development, linking the new buildings with Saarinen’s original design while adapting the site to its new use.

The first phase of the project focused on restoring the exterior and the terminal’s principal interior spaces while addressing contemporary life safety requirements, including smoke evacuation, detection, annunciation and egress systems. Once the restoration was completed, the building was prepared for its second phase, reopening as a hotel, restaurant and conference destination.