Travel news, reviews and intel for high-flyers

KLM Inaugurates Renovated Crown Lounge at Houston International Airport

The Dutch flag carrier has overhauled its Texas lounge with a sleek refurbishment

by Samir Kadri

September 21, 2023

Photo: KLM Crown Lounge, Houston. Courtesy of KLM

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has unveiled a stunning transformation at Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) with the grand reopening of its KLM Crown Lounge.

Nestled in Terminal D near gate D7, the newly revamped KLM Crown Lounge spans a substantial 3,962 square feet and offers seating for up to 100 guests.

This lounge, one of just four across the globe bearing the KLM Crown insignia, joins the ranks of KLM’s other premium lounges in Amsterdam and Toronto, with the latter having also recently undergone a remarkable renovation.

The makeover has ushered in a wave of aesthetic and functional improvements, with new flooring, fixtures, wallpaper, furniture, and a comprehensive bathroom overhaul.

Photo: KLM Crown Lounge, Houston. Courtesy of KLM

As guests step into the main area, they are greeted by an ultramodern array of seats accented by stylish wooden sideboards, while soft, inviting light from an assortment of table lamps bathes the lounge in a warm ambiance.

A focal point of this space is the installation showcasing KLM’s iconic Delft Blue Dutch Houses. Each miniature house represents an actual Dutch building and is a cherished collectible for KLM’s World Business Class passengers traveling on international flights.

With 103 different houses already distributed – one for each year the airline has been in operation – anticipation is mounting for the release of the 104th house, set to debut on October 7.

Photo: KLM’s 100th Delftware miniature house. Courtesy of Floris Heuer / KLM

Throughout the lounge, guests can also admire the captivating wall art inspired by the interiors and heritage of the Dutch Flag Carrier, adding to the lounge’s unique ambiance.

Marleen van de Pol, KLM’s Vice President of Customer Experience, expressed her enthusiasm for the renovated lounge, stating, “Investment in signature lounges at international stations is the cornerstone of elevating the premium customer experience, aligning perfectly with our commitment to investing in our new World Business Class and our recently introduced Premium Comfort cabin. Branded lounges add to the connection with our customers in delivering our brand promise of creating memorable experiences.”

Photo: KLM Crown Lounge, Houston. Courtesy of KLM

The KLM Crown Lounge at Houston caters to premium passengers on KLM flights and SkyTeam elite members from other cabins. Moreover, all SkyTeam business class travelers on international routes, including those flying with Air France and Delta, can access the lounge.

For dining, guests can savor breakfast, lunch, and dinner options via a self-service buffet featuring a delectable array of hot and cold dishes. A selection of beverages, including tea, coffee, sodas, juices, wine, beer, and spirits, is also available.

Photo: New World Business Class seat onboard the Boeing 777-300ER. Courtesy of KLM.

Priority Pass members are technically eligible to access the lounge during its operational hours. However, it’s worth noting that if the lounge reaches capacity, priority will be given to Air France and KLM passengers, ensuring that premium travelers enjoy a seamless and memorable experience in this splendid haven of comfort and elegance.