Mobility + Place (Part 1): Designing for the Passenger Experience with John Anthal

Mobility + Place (Part 1): Designing for the Passenger Experience with John Anthal

From I Hear Design: the i+s podcast by interiors+sources

March 16, 2026 · 25 min · Episode 125

About this episode

John Anthal discusses the evolution of airport design focusing on passenger comfort and experience.

Airports are among the most complex public environments designers have to shape—high-traffic, high-stress spaces where operational efficiency and human experience must work together seamlessly. In this episode of I Hear Design, we kick off the first installment of the two-part "Mobility + Place" mini-series with John Anthal, who leads Mancini’s aviation sector. Anthal discusses how airport design has evolved in recent years to focus more intentionally on passenger comfort, intuitive wayfinding, seamless security, thoughtful lounge experiences, and a stronger sense of place. The conversation also explores how airports are increasingly functioning like mini cities, with integrated hospitality, transportation, and commercial offerings, while still needing to feel curated, welcoming, and distinct to their location. Along the way, Anthal shares practical insights that apply far beyond aviation, offering lessons for architects and designers working on any high-traffic, user-centered environment.

People in this episode

Guest: John Anthal

Topics covered

  • airport design
  • passenger experience
  • human-centered design
  • aviation
  • urban design

Keywords

  • mobility
  • place
  • wayfinding
  • security
  • hospitality

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Mobility + Place

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