Flying Forward: Seven Years of Design at Melbourne Airport

For the past seven years, Peddle Thorp Architects has been quietly shaping the way travellers move through and experience Melbourne Airport—one of Australia’s busiest and most dynamic transit hubs. From gate lounges to premium amenities, more than 20 individual projects and over $200 million in upgrades have gone into enhancing comfort, accessibility, and functionality for millions of passengers each year.

At the heart of this journey is May, a Principal at Peddle Thorp Architects, who has led the delivery of numerous projects at the airport with clarity, care, and a firm eye on the traveller experience. We sat down with her to reflect on what it really takes to design for a place that never sleeps.

A Complex and Evolving Brief

The scope of work at Melbourne Airport has been broad and technically demanding. Peddle Thorp Architects has led the design and consultant teams across a wide range of projects, from the upgrade of gate lounges to the complete redevelopment of amenities across all terminals.

“Each project had its own constraints, but all required close coordination with airport authorities and stakeholders to align design outcomes with operational requirements”

Working within an active airport meant navigating staging requirements, security constraints, and tight construction windows tied to peak travel periods.

Designing for Travellers

At the core of every design decision was the traveller experience. Inclusive design played a central role, resulting in upgraded facilities that include all-gender restrooms, adult change rooms, and premium parent spaces.

“Airports are high-pressure environments. Our goal was to reduce the stress of travel wherever possible through spatial clarity, quality materiality, and attention to detail.”

Materials were selected for durability, ease of cleaning, and long-term visual consistency. Design interventions needed to work seamlessly for both passengers and operational staff.

Highlights and Milestones

Among the most visible outcomes has been the complete refresh of amenity spaces across all terminals, which have received positive feedback for their accessibility, finish, and clarity of layout. The upgrade of the Terminal 3 baggage handling area and improved internal connections between Terminals 3 and 4 have also delivered major operational benefits, improving the passenger experience even beyond the visible spaces.

One of May’s most technically demanding projects was the new T2 International Departures amenities block.

“We had to build over an original 1970s structure in close proximity to live aircraft bays and services. It required highly coordinated planning and a careful design response to meet compliance and avoid disrupting operations.”

Looking back, Looking ahead

Working in a 24/7 environment brought its own pressures from embargoes during peak travel periods to tight delivery schedules.

“There’s nothing like watching a space you’ve worked on come to life and be used by people from all over the world"

Peddle Thorp Architects continues to support Melbourne Airport’s vision to evolve into a leading international gateway through smart, inclusive design that keeps travellers at the centre.

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