On the occasion of Passenger Terminal Expo 2026, the world’s leading annual event dedicated to airport design and operations, Poltrona Frau and Foster + Partners Industrial Design present the complete Bay System: an innovative modular seating system that combines design, comfort, and environmental awareness, redefining the waiting experience.

Developed in collaboration with Foster + Partners Industrial Design, the Bay System represents a strategic evolution for Poltrona Frau in the modular seating segment for public spaces. Launched in 2023 and expanded through 2025 with new configurations and accessories, the system now stands as a fully developed ecosystem designed for airports and contemporary shared environments.

Poltrona Frau approaches the project through an in-depth analysis of user behavior in transit spaces, transforming waiting into a more comfortable and mindful experience. The Bay System offers flexible, configurable solutions that adapt to both individual needs and shared settings, combining craftsmanship, technological innovation, and design freedom.

A defining feature of the project is its sustainable approach: the entire system is fully disassemblable, allowing components to be separated, reconfigured, and replaced, thereby extending the product’s lifecycle and long-term relevance. Its compact storage configuration ensures high logistical efficiency, saving space and reducing transport-related impact. Ease of disassembly at end of life also supports the recyclability of each material.

The collection is structured into two main lines, each expressing ergonomic excellence and privacy-oriented design. Bay Gate, conceived for high-traffic areas and short waiting times, combines ergonomics and durability with recyclable materials. Bay Lounge, on the other hand, offers a more welcoming and relaxed experience, with wider upholstered seating and premium finishes, suitable not only for airports but also for offices, hotels, museums, and hospitality environments. The integration of power outlets, wireless charging, personal screens, and ambient lighting completes the system.

Ultimately, the Bay System envisions a world where waiting spaces are no longer just a necessity, but an experience—flexible, welcoming, and responsive to the evolving needs of contemporary public environments.