New York City 2026: Selected Projects

JPMorgan Chase & Co, Sapphire Lounge — Terminal B LGA

Turner Construction Company
Kathleen Smyth • Luz D Cabreja • Denisa Metjahic • Radwa Ahmed •

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Location: LaGuardia Airport, East Elmhurst, NY 11371
Year: 2023

At LaGuardia Airport’s Central Hall, Turner Construction partnered with JPMorgan Chase and Gensler to create the Chase Sapphire Lounge, a 25,000 square foot two story hospitality destination redefining the airport experience. Completed in October 2023, this sophisticated space offers travelers access to an 11,000 square foot restaurant with a full kitchen, coworking and conference areas, private suites, children’s playroom, game lounge, and multiple coffee and beverage stations, all unified by an atmosphere of comfort and elevated design. Under the leadership of Project Executive Kathleen Smyth, the team transformed a structurally complex environment into a seamless, high-end space within one of New York City’s most logistically constrained aviation hubs. Kathleen guided every phase from preconstruction strategy to execution, balancing design intent, technical coordination, and stakeholder collaboration. She oversaw significant base building modifications, including partial slab demolition, new structural framing, and vertical integration of services to create the lounge’s signature atrium and open volumes. The project exemplified innovation through the use of laser scanning and digital layout technology, enabling the team to map 7,370 linear feet in just six days with one sixteenth inch precision, improving productivity by over 60 percent. This forward-thinking approach ensured accuracy, reduced rework, and upheld Turner's commitment to quality and efficiency. Embodying Built by Women, Kathleen’s leadership reflects how women are shaping the construction landscape through innovation, precision, and inclusion. Her mentorship fostered growth among emerging women professionals, while her expertise delivered an aviation landmark that enhances traveler experience and represents the power of women led impact in New York’s built environment.
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