This U.S. Airport Just Won the Title of World's Most Beautiful-and It's More Than Just Pretty

"It's fair to say most of us don't think much about airport architecture when we travel. We're too busy making sure our suitcases are checked before the counter closes, our liquids are out of our carry-ons at security, and we reach the gate before boarding ends."

"The jury in the annual art and architecture awards, presented at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, commended the terminal, calling it "the fruit of an ambitious transformation" that "provides a soothing, restorative setting for travelers.""

"The jury pointed to Harvey Milk Terminal 1's 79 percent reduction in carbon emissions and 59 percent decrease in energy usage, along with its bright, welcoming spaces, and celebration of Bay Area culture."

"The terminal has also been imagined with wellbeing front and center, with naturally lit spaces, gender-neutral restrooms, wellness zones, and accessible wayfinding. As a "quiet terminal," digital displays are preferred to overhead announcements."

San Francisco International Airport's Harvey Milk Terminal 1 received the Prix Versailles for World's Most Beautiful Airport in early December 2025. The terminal achieved a 79 percent reduction in carbon emissions and a 59 percent decrease in energy usage while creating bright, welcoming spaces that celebrate Bay Area culture. The facility includes a permanent exhibition honoring Harvey Milk and more than 30 original artworks reflecting the city's progressive legacy. Design elements emphasize wellbeing with abundant natural light, gender-neutral restrooms, wellness zones, accessible wayfinding, and a quiet-terminal approach favoring digital displays over overhead announcements. The first phase opened in 2019 and final completion occurred in June 2024.

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