MTB Air Lounge by Cube Inside Design Ltd.: A Contrast Between Motion and Stillness

Airports are often defined by their intensity—constant movement, noise, and anticipation. Yet, nestled within Shah Amanat International Airport in Chattogram lies a space that gently interrupts this rhythm. The MTB Air Lounge, designed by Cube Inside Design Ltd., offers travelers a thoughtful pause—a moment of stillness before or after the rush of travel.

Whether one is filled with the excitement of departure or the fatigue of arrival, the experience of entering this lounge is striking. It is a space marked by a minimalist, human-centric design that merges functionality with emotional comfort. With sweeping views of the runway, carefully calibrated lighting, and intuitive spatial organization, the MTB Air Lounge sets a new standard for airport interiors in Bangladesh.

Design Philosophy and Intent

Architect Ahmed Firoj Ul Hoque Robin, co-founder and principal at Cube Inside, shares that the primary design intention was to foster a sense of emotional ease—a sanctuary within a bustling terminal. With over 14 lounges designed to date, Cube Inside focuses on crafting compact, efficient environments that prioritize user comfort without sacrificing elegance.

In the MTB Air Lounge, the connection between motion and stillness was a core conceptual theme. The journey of a traveler, inherently defined by movement, begins or ends in this pocket of tranquility. The lounge becomes a space of transition—a subtle but powerful psychological bridge between the outside world and the introspective moments of travel.

Runway as a Focal Element

One of the most impactful features of the lounge is its orientation toward the runway. This design decision was central to the planning process. A dedicated segment of seating directly faces the runway, offering users a captivating view of aircraft taking off and landing. These seats are especially favored by solo travelers seeking a moment of calm with a coffee or dessert, watching the choreography of motion beyond the glass.

The space accommodates a variety of user needs. Solo travelers can enjoy secluded seating options, while families or groups of friends are provided with cluster-style arrangements that promote social interaction. This zoning strategy enhances both privacy and community, offering psychological ease for all types of users.

Programmatic Efficiency in a Compact Footprint

Spanning 1,900 square feet (approximately 180 square meters), the lounge had to meet a diverse and demanding program: 45 seating spaces, a snack corner integrated into the design, a pantry capable of maintaining proper food temperatures, gender-specific restrooms, a prayer space catering to local needs, and a clearly defined reception area. Another essential requirement was uniform lighting, ensuring that the space remains inviting and functional at all hours.

Meeting these requirements within a limited footprint was a significant design challenge. However, Cube Inside approached the task with precision. The lounge is divided into three primary zones: the pantry and food service area, the reception with washrooms and prayer room, and the main seating space. These zones interconnect seamlessly without functional interference, ensuring a coherent spatial narrative.

Privacy and Sensory Considerations

Particular care was taken in the design of the prayer area, which is discreetly enclosed with custom-designed screens. To enhance acoustic comfort, a double-screening system was implemented to provide effective soundproofing. A dedicated attendant further ensures privacy and user convenience, making the space both sacred and serene.

Brand Integration and Design Language

A key design strategy was the integration of MTB’s corporate identity. From color palettes and fluid forms to the central food counter and seating partitions, multiple elements draw direct inspiration from the bank’s logo. These symbolic gestures serve not only as visual signatures but also as subtle psychological anchors—enhancing brand recall and user connection.

One of the recurring design elements introduced by Cube Inside is the metal screen featured at the lounge’s entrance. Initially conceived as a bold, distinctive gesture, it has now become a recognizable motif across their lounge designs, reinforcing both brand identity and the firm’s architectural language.

Attention to Detail and Execution

Despite budgetary constraints—a common challenge in commercial interior design—Cube Inside managed to maintain high design integrity. Key elements such as the central island, ceiling design, and custom circular lighting and HVAC units by Samsung are seamlessly integrated. The ceiling design itself acts as an abstract branching structure, from which various zones extend. Flower-like lighting elements enhance visual interest while maintaining the understated elegance of the space.

The lighting strategy deserves particular mention. Every area is softly illuminated, allowing users to read, dine, or rest comfortably. The diffused, ambient light fosters a sense of calm, while eliminating any sense of enclosure or gloom.

A Moment Remembered

Reflecting on the process, Architect Robin notes, “There have been struggles, but struggle is part of the design process. It’s the end result that matters—and the end result made us all happy.”

The MTB Air Lounge successfully embodies its design intent—a contrast between motion and stillness, a place of transition and memory. More than just a waiting area, it is a thoughtfully crafted environment that enhances the journey itself. For those passing through Shah Amanat International Airport, it is not merely a lounge, but a space worth remembering—and returning to.

Written By Sadia Tarannum