Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club at San Diego International Airport
Project Stats
- Location
San Diego, California
- Size
11,000 SF
- Market
- Expertise
Life’s a Beach and Then You Fly
For its first Sapphire Lounge on the West Coast, Chase is making a statement with an expansive space that captures the essence of San Diego’s coastal lifestyle. Inspired by the laid-back surf culture of La Jolla Beach and the rich artistic heritage of Balboa Park, the 11,000-square-foot lounge, located in Terminal 2 West of San Diego International Airport (SAN), offers a seamless blend of luxury, relaxation, and adventure—before guests even step onto their flight.
Upon entering, travelers are immersed in an ocean-inspired retreat that reflects the off-the-beaten-path spirit of San Diego. It’s a space designed for unwinding, evoking the serenity of a day spent surfing at Sunset Cliffs or Blacks Beach, followed by a cozy bonfire along the shores of La Jolla or Mission Bay—all framed by the natural beauty of Southern California.
Play Fast and Hang Loose
Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a striking row of vibrant surfboards, custom-designed by local muralist Hanna Daly and fabricated by local manufacturer Daydream Surf Shop. A dynamic digital wall—a first for a Sapphire lounge—showcases aerial footage of the nearby coastline, reinforcing the lounge’s beach motif while offering an Instagram-worthy moment. Overhead, a reflective, textured ceiling mimics the movement of water, capturing the way light dances across the ocean’s surface.
Beyond this playful entry, guests will discover the Balboa Breezeway, a serene reading room and lounge. Here, a bold yet minimalist mural of ocean waves sets the tone, complemented by a custom bookcase with arched openings and adobe finish—a subtle nod to the architectural beauty of Balboa Park. Natural materials like rattan and linen enhance the sense of a breezy coastal retreat, inviting guests to unwind in an atmosphere that feels both refined and effortlessly relaxed.
The guest’s journey continues beyond the bar and dining areas into the productivity zone where a water vaper fire pit—echoing the beachside fire pits found throughout San Diego—serves as the focal point. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows frame sweeping views of the airfield and city skyline, flooding the space with natural light and further highlighting its connection to the city.
The material palette is centered around Chase Sapphire’s signature blue, complemented by a spectrum of ocean-inspired hues, from cerulean to seafoam to cobalt. Throughout the space, the brand’s signature luxe finishes—marble surfaces, plush velvet seating, and gilded fixtures—elevate the atmosphere, blending coastal charm with sophisticated elegance.
Give it a Rest
This spacious retreat is filled with premium amenities. Comfortable, semi-private wellness pods overlooking the airfield provide a serene escape, while a mini-facial spa offers a refreshing pre-flight indulgence. The wellness experience is further enhanced by well-appointed restrooms and a luxurious shower room, ensuring guests feel refreshed for their journey.
For those looking for a different kind of refreshment, SAN Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club features the largest bar in the network yet, as well as a self-serve area, two large beverage stations, and plenty of seating. The a la carte menu—courtesy of Oscars Mexican Seafood—and the local coffee and curated wine list available to guests enriches the Southern California ambiance.
Kid's Room
Nursing Room
Sustainability
As Terminal 2 West achieved LEED Platinum certification, it was important that the lounge was also planned for sustainability. Corgan designed the lounge to target LEED Gold certification by selecting low-flow fixtures, working closely with the contractor to minimize construction waste, and favoring materials that do not contain harmful chemicals known as red-list free materials. The lounge also incorporates composting as part of its operations.
The SAN Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club seamlessly combines San Diego's surf culture with Balboa Park's architectural charm, offering sustainable design, luxury amenities, and spaces that cater to relaxation, work, and family needs for all travelers.
