The San Francisco International Airport is now home to a world-renowned architectural masterpiece. SFO snagged the ultimate accolade at the esteemed Prix Versailles awards in Paris last week, an honor that showcases the best in design around the globe. The UNESCO-recognized event elevated SFO's Harvey Milk Terminal 1 to the pinnacle of a tough competition, which included contenders such as Yantai Penglai International Airport in China and Kansai International Airport in Japan.
With a design that screams contemporary elegance and an ethical edge, the terminal, named after the iconic LGBTQ+ civil rights leader, has made more than a fashion statement—it's made history. "We are truly honored to be named the top airport in the world by Prix Versailles," Airport Director Mike Nakornkhet told the San Francisco International Airport. The prestigious award, received last Thursday, isn't just a feather in the cap for the airport but a soaring declaration of its commitment to the environment and society.
The Prix Versailles, in the words of its 2025 World Jury Chairperson Irina Bokova, isn't just about eye candy—it's about "architecture and design as a force capable of shaping the world we inhabit." It's clear from SFO's dedication to cultural context and sustainability that the Harvey Milk Terminal 1 project extends beyond mere aesthetics. Bokova emphasized the importance of creativity, which carries "integrity – its ability to respond to cultural context, to uplift communities, and to contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future," in a statement, according to the San Francisco International Airport.
Harvey Milk Terminal 1's journey to the top began with a phased opening, from the first nine departure gates in July 2019 to the final touches in June 2024. Evolving not only in size but also in function, the terminal now connects all SFO terminals post-security with a new mezzanine-level security checkpoint and additional amenities, making the travel experience for passengers not just smoother but also richer. Each phase was unveiled with a new facet of brilliance, culminating in an airport terminal, which, being the first in the world to honor an LGBTQ+ leader, now stands as a symbol of inclusivity and progress.
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