Atlantic Aviation BNA Wins at 2025 IIDA Best of the Best Awards

From left: Carl Weaver, Kelly Weaver, Gretchen Lotz, Stephanie Kirkpatrick, Sam Ingram, Abbe Nelson, and Natalia Nuchols

IIDA Georgia’s annual Best of the Best awards ceremony was a memorable night for NBA’s interior design studio! The team took home the top award in the Serve: Best of Government/ Institutional & Public Assembly category for their work on Atlantic Aviation BNA, a fixed-base operator (FBO) and hangar complex in Nashville, TN.

Congratulations to all of our partners who made this project a huge success!

Interior Design: Niles Bolton Associates
Architecture: DYE | NBA Aviation
Landscape Architecture: Niles Bolton Associates
Contractor: Pro Building Systems
Lighting Consultant: SESCO Lighting
Furniture Consultant: Corporate Environments
Civil Engineer: Aulick Engineering
Structural Engineer: Palmer Engineering Company
Mechanical & Plumbing: AMC Consulting Engineers
Electrical Engineer: Proficient Engineering
LEED Consultant: Southface Energy Institute
Photographer: Morgan Nowland

Category: Serve, Best of Government/ Institutional & Public Assembly
Project: Nashville Private Aviation Terminal and Hanger (BNA)
Client: Atlantic Aviation

To balance a jam-packed program with a duality of client-facing and back of house service needs, this 13,454 SF Fixed-Based Operator (FBO) terminal building at the Nashville International Airport needed to maximize every square foot. The design was not prototypical but had to meet the brand standards that patrons have come to expect across the client’s multiple locations. It was desired that passenger areas focus on comfort and functionality, while staff areas remain secure and offer clear lines of sight towards the active tarmac. Prior to construction, the team was required to coordinate approvals and verify security with multiple federal agencies.

As directed by the Client, the program includes a spacious lobby with a critical customer service desk, various passenger seating options, rental car counter, conference space for guests, offices for airport staff, pilot lounge, cafe, VIP lounge, men’s and women’s locker rooms, kitchen and back of house service area, and staff training room. In addition to the FBO terminal, the project scope consists of a 26,645 SF hangar with 3,175 SF of office and support area.

The design concept aims to provide a luxurious yet approachable environment for customers, pilots, and employees. The color palette generally leans toward warm neutrals that feel timeless and clean, with deep color accents that reflect Tennessee’s rolling hills as seen from the air. Subtle music references that embrace Nashville's vibrant culture were incorporated throughout and aviation-themed touches provide an appropriate sense of place and character. Far removed from a typical commercial flying experience, soft, ambient lighting contributes to a relaxing environment for passengers, reducing any pre-flight anxieties.

Large glass doors and windows blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing guests to appreciate the aviation setting. The playful exploration of material and color that animates the perimeter of the terminal penetrates the interior to create a cohesive design experience from door to door. Space planning balances open lounge seating with more private areas to accommodate both leisure groups seeking social interactions and business travelers who need to maximize every minute of available time. A secure, VIP lounge was thoughtfully considered for special guests who require an extra layer of privacy or an enhanced level of attention. Wayfinding with local references was strategically implemented to promote a positive user experience.

Opened in spring 2024, this Nashville FBO terminal boasts a curated design that combines elegance and functionality, catering to both business and leisure travelers. Employee operational areas, offices, and pilot support spaces were pushed to the perimeter, offering tarmac views where necessary, to make way for an uninterrupted flow for customers. Upon arrival by either vehicle or aircraft, a continuous warm, wood-look ceiling with recessed linear lighting acts as a spine guiding visitors through the voluminous lobby towards their destination. A compass rose embedded into the floor at reception combines art and navigation, serving as both a decorative element and subtle directional guide.

For those who have time to relax, unwind, or recharge pre-flight, a mix of sleek and inviting lounge seating with integrated power outlets combines comfort with function. Successfully tucked away from high-traffic areas, the refined VIP lounge caters to the most high-profile travelers. Nuanced references to music are incorporated throughout the artwork, wall coverings, and signage. Overall, the design of this FBO facility focuses on creating a sophisticated yet welcoming environment that embraces southern hospitality, prioritizes comfort, efficiency, and the unique spirit of Nashville to ensure every traveler feels valued and at ease in the Music City.