Saarinen’s TWA Flight Center Turned into a Hotel?

One of our legendary pieces from the modern classic era is the Eero Saarinen Ashtray.  Using the famed tulip base from the Pedestal Series of Saarinen tables, Saarinen mounted a giant stainless steel bowl on top.  Designed  in the early 1960s, the Saarinen Ashtray went on to adorn TWA Flight Center at JFK International Airport.

Eero Saarinen's TWA Flight Center Ashtray

Eero Saarinen’s TWA Flight Center Ashtray

 

Image the thrill of smoking indoors and dumping your ash in a piece of modern classic furniture.  Well, things have changed, haven’t they?  According to Curbed, this American landmark will soon be a no smoking zone for sure as it will be turned into a hotel.  The redevelopment plans are still in the works, but JetBlue is in talks with the Port Authority to lead the project.

We hope the Port Authority keeps the historical aspects of the TWA Flight Center in place with the Saarinen Ashtray and Saarinen tables throughout the building.