Our flight to Seattle out of O’Hare has been considerably delayed, so I have time to write about the pedestrian tunnel, certainly one of the best things about the airport.
The neon tunnel, which caused a sensation when unveiled 25 years ago, is aging well. Designed by Helmut Jahn and decorated with a neon installation called “The Sky’s the Limit” by Michael Hayden, it’s a fine example of eighties architecture, its fun-house sensibility eschewing seriousness and severity. With a rainbow-like palette and undulating walls and ceilings evoking puffy clouds, the space pays homage to the wonders of the sky, jazzed up by the beat of a neon-light rollout overhead that’s always changing. Accompanying the light show are curious pinging sounds that emanate from the walls. Some say it’s Gershwin.
The space is just colorful and active enough to be diverting without being too self-important or heavy. Its faux-psychedelic effect is just the right touch given the banality of the airport setting. Perhaps most important, it disguises the great length of the tunnel that passengers must traverse, re-imagining the trudge as something resembling a road trip in Oz.
The neon tunnel has been ranked 102nd on a list of America’s 150 favorite structures compiled by the American Institute of Architects.
Mary Beth says
How lovely to turn an unexpected wait in a vast airport into an artful observation. Thank you for looking outside the lines. Happy travels!
Celia says
Thanks, Mary Beth! What’s more O’Hare has become slightly more hospitable over the years, though it still has a way to go. I saw at least one young mother, stranded with her very young son waiting out a 7-hour delay–it would be great if the airport had some kind of a play-space for kids–air travel can be really hard on them.
Thanks so much for writing in–hope all is well with you.
Celia
harley says
Ah, yes; the ol’ United tunnel leading to the “C” concourse. I too recall it causing a huge sensation when it opened up for business . . . . Yes, it has aged well.
Celia says
I wish O’Hare had more visual appeal. It could also use additional amenities, like play-spaces for children.