Harrison Takes a Sustainability-First Approach to New Giraffe World Kitchen Manchester Airport Opening
Giraffe World Kitchen appointed Harrison, the full service 360 brand and design agency announces, as their strategic partner for the design and creation of their latest opening in Manchester Airport Terminal 2. The new location marks continued growth in Giraffe’s expansion within travel hubs, now in over 10 airports globally, offering travellers a vibrant dining experience that celebrates global cuisine and sustainable design.
Victoria Limer, Team Manager and Senior Designer at Harrison, says: “Our challenge was to breathe new life into a space, transforming the former Wagamama’s site into a vibrant Giraffe restaurant which distinctively embodies the brand’s ethos. A big part of this is sustainability, which runs through the DNA of Giraffe as a business. This was a key consideration as we approached our design, wanting to ensure we re-used and repurposed existing elements wherever possible, alongside sourcing new items from sustainable producers.
“Airports are by their nature an odd environment. The majority of people there are somewhat in a state of limbo waiting for their time to take off, mixed with excitement and anticipation of the trip to come. It’s a captive audience, but also one filled with all sorts of choice at all hours of the day. We wanted to ensure this Giraffe is a place for people to be ablet to take a breath and relax pre-flight. All while delivering a fresh, inviting atmosphere and an evolution of the brand people have known and loved for decades.”
Sustainability is at the heart of the design, with initiatives focused on creating the least impact as possible. This includes the use of reclaimed and recycled materials wherever possible, such as repurposed furniture and lighting from other closed or refurbished sites. When new materials did need to be sourced, these included ethically sourced leather for seating, and sustainably sourced tiles from factories using 100% self-generated electricity. The brand’s commitment to reducing environmental impact is further demonstrated by the retention and revamping of existing structures like the bar and pass to minimise waste.
The design team at Harrison has masterfully incorporated local elements inspired by Manchester and the surrounding areas to create a distinct dining experience while retaining the core Giraffe look and feel. In addition, the restaurant showcases the blend of brand identity and innovative design.
Faux greenery installations add life to existing illuminated hexagons, while warm terracotta render breaks up grey tones, and rustic, reclaimed timber cladding adorns existing seating.
The space is further enhanced by a bright, bold coloured glazed screen partially obscuring the open kitchen, creating an air of culinary mystery. Herringbone-laid teal tiles in the back bar area add a touch of sophistication, while iconic Giraffe-coloured leather upholstery maintains brand consistency. The floor boasts geometric patterned tiles, and eye-catching yellow tiles clad the existing bar front, injecting energy into the space. Hexagon teal tiles serve as a feature on the current pass front, and colourful potted plants soften the overall design, creating a welcoming atmosphere for diners.
Giraffe World Kitchen continues to offer its signature menu inspired by global cuisines, providing travellers with a diverse array of flavours and dishes to enjoy before their flights. With the successful opening of this new location, Giraffe World Kitchen reinforces its position as a leader in airport dining experiences. The brand’s focus on sustainability, coupled with its vibrant atmosphere and global menu, is set to make it a favourite among Manchester Airport travellers.
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