Ruba Awad-Moran, Partner at AO shares How Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Arizona Crafts Space More Than Just a Dining Destination with Natural Beauty and Culinary Diversity

The Crystals at Sky Harbor food court, a newly unveiled culinary hub at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, offers travelers a unique blend of local and national dining experiences. Spanning an impressive 7,500 square feet, this food court has been meticulously designed by AO, a full-service architecture firm. Drawing inspiration from the natural crystal formations and geodes of the Sonoran Desert, the space features organic and calming elements, with natural wood finishings and geometric shapes that reflect Arizona's rugged mountain landscapes. The central bar, operated by Pedal Haus, serves as the food court's anchor, its design mimicking the state's distinctive desert environment. With sandy shading and mountain-inspired shapes, it captures the essence of Arizona's natural beauty, creating a cohesive and immersive atmosphere for travelers.

How large is the Crystals at Sky Harbor food court?

The Crystals at Sky Harbor food court is an expansive dining space within Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, covering an impressive 7,500 square feet. This substantial area is designed to accommodate a variety of culinary experiences, offering travelers a spacious and comfortable environment to enjoy a meal or a quick snack before their flights. The food court's large footprint allows for the inclusion of multiple dining options, ranging from local favorites to nationally recognized brands, ensuring that there is something for every palate. The thoughtfully planned layout not only provides ample seating but also creates an inviting atmosphere that reflects the natural beauty of Arizona, making it a standout feature of the airport's offerings.

Which local and regional food options are available at the Crystals at Sky Harbor?

The Crystals at Sky Harbor food court offers a diverse and carefully curated selection of dining options, featuring both regional and national favorites that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. These options provide travelers with an authentic taste of local culture as well as familiar comfort foods, making it a culinary destination within the airport.

Regional Favorites:

National Favorites:

Who designed the Crystals at Sky Harbor food court and what materials were used in its design?

AO, a full-service architecture firm, designed the food court, drawing inspiration from the natural crystal formations and geodes found in the Sonoran Desert. The materials used thoughtfully evoke these geological and geometric shapes. Natural design elements, including a variety of wood finishings, are incorporated throughout the space to create an organic and calming atmosphere.

How does the central bar in the food court emulate Arizona's natural environment?

Pedal Haus beautifully emulates Arizona's natural environment by drawing inspiration from the state's distinctive desert landscape. Designed as the anchor of the food court, the bar's shape mimics the rugged outline of Arizona's mountains, creating a striking visual centerpiece that resonates with the surrounding scenery. The sandy shading of the bar captures the essence of the desert's warm, earthy tones, enhancing the natural ambiance.

The surrounding wall and ceiling decorations further accentuate this theme with geometric architecture that reflects mountain shapes, seamlessly integrating the design elements. This thoughtful incorporation of natural motifs transforms the food court into a cohesive, immersive space that celebrates Arizona's unique geological features.

What did Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego say about the new food court at Sky Harbor Airport?

Mayor Kate Gallego was very excited about the addition of Crystals at Sky Harbor to the PHX Airport.

Specifically, Gallego shared this sentiment about how Crystals at Sky Harbor will enrich the traveler experience, while supporting businesses: