Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure the new Cathay Pacific business lounge is flooded with natural light at Shanghai Pudong International Airport. Photo: Cathay Pacific
Source:
https://scmp.com/magazines/style/travel-food/article/3019113/first-look-cathay-pacifics-new-business-lounge-shanghai Leisure
First look at Cathay Pacific’s new business lounge at Shanghai Pudong International Airport
Welcoming 970 square-metre space, designed in the style of a modern home, offers floor-to-ceiling windows, a relaxing outdoor terrace and a noodle bar serving delicious favourites
Extensive use of wooden interior design features have helped to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in Cathay Pacific’s new 970 square-metre business lounge at Shanghai Pudong International Airport.
Cathay Pacific has opened a new 970 square-metre (10,450 square-foot) business lounge at Shanghai Pudong International Airport.
Located near Departure Gate D69 in the airport’s Terminal 2 building, the new space features the same design seen in the Hong Kong-based carrier’s other lounges.
Created in the style of a modern home, the lounge has been conceived by London-based practice Studioilse, led by designer Ilse Crawford.
The lounge’s floor-to-ceiling windows ensure the area feels open and is flooded with natural light. There is seating for up to 305 people including the ergonomically designed Solo Chairs with built-in reading lamps and an individual side table, which provide a perfect private little haven for travellers to relax and unwind.
The business lounge’s Noodle Bar highlights local Hong Kong-style dishes, such as freshly prepared handmade dim sum, and also Sichuan-style dan dan noodles and classic Cantonese wonton noodles
One can also enjoy a panoramic view of the Shanghai transport hub from the outdoor, L-shaped Terrace, where refreshments are available.
The wide use of wood in the decor of the lounge, including the slatted ceiling and wall panelling, creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Furniture in the lounge has been sourced from renowned makers such as Fritz Hansen, Cassina, De La Espada, Knoll, Vitsoe, Living Divani, E15, Kalmar, Atelier Areti and Rich Brilliant Willing, but also complemented with some customised designs.
A mix of bronze and brass items featured throughout help to add stylish touches, emphasising its luxury home fashion aesthetic.
When it comes to a flying experience, the dining choices can either make or break a business lounge at an airport.
One of my most memorable airline-lounge meals was the serving of wanton noodles at Cathay’s business lounge in Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport.
A similar menu, but with more localised additions, is offered in Cathay’s Shanghai lounge.
You will find a familiar noodle bar, which highlights local Hong Kong-style dishes. Freshly prepared handmade dim sum and classic Cantonese wonton noodles are just some of the treats. The Shanghainese favourite of xiaolongbao dumplings is also served daily. The Sichuan-style dan dan noodles, which I highly recommend, are delightfully savoury when mixed with chopped peanuts, and authentic thanks to the thick sesame sauce. The taste of the dish is slightly less pronounced than it is with the ones you usually get on Shanghai’s streets, but the noodle bar counter provides condiments like chilli oil, sauce and powder for individuals to spice it up by preference. Portions are all relatively small, so you can try a few different dishes.
If you are looking for lighter bites, or fancy some of your favourite cocktails, then pop over to the food hall.
Western bites including freshly baked bread, mini sandwiches, cold cuts and a cheese selection are available. Healthy choices such as kale salad and nuts, perfect for vegetarians, are surprisingly good.
At the bar, La Cuvée Brut champagne from the Laurent-Perrier winery is served free-flow. Other spirits like Belvedere and Absolut vodkas, Rémy Martin cognac, and whiskies by Jack Daniel and Johnnie Walker Black Label are also available for making your own drinks.
There are several coffee machines throughout the lounge, and tea stations which provide a variety of teas by JING, including the China specials Jade Sword green tea and vintage Puerh.
After that you will be all set for take-off.