The new restaurant at Manchester Airport Terminal 2, Giraffe World Kitchen, has teamed up with the full-service design agency Harrison to create a sustainability-focused dining experience. The restaurant features reclaimed and recycled materials, such as repurposed furniture and lighting, and ethically sourced materials like leather and sustainably sourced tiles made with self-generated electricity.
Local elements inspired by Manchester enhance the restaurant’s ambiance, merging a unique atmosphere with the signature Giraffe aesthetic. Faux greenery installations breathe life into illuminated hexagons, while warm terracotta render adds contrast to grey tones, and rustic reclaimed timber cladding decorates seating areas.
The layout includes a vibrant glazed screen that partially hides the open kitchen and features herringbone-laid teal tiles in the back bar. Iconic Giraffe-coloured leather upholstery ensures brand consistency, while geometric patterned tiles and bright yellow tiles enliven the bar front. Hexagon teal tiles are showcased on the current pass front, complemented by colorful potted plants that create a welcoming environment for guests.
Victoria Limer, Team Manager and Senior Designer at Harrison, highlighted the challenge of revitalizing the airport space, noting the unique atmosphere where travelers are often in a state of anticipation. “We aimed to design Giraffe as a place for people to relax before their flights, delivering a refreshing, inviting space that evolves the beloved brand,” Limer shared.
Giraffe World Kitchen now operates in 10 airports worldwide.
