Having been involved in a number of airport project both here and overseas I think most aviation enthusiasts seriously underestimate the need and indeed client requirments for the retail space. As variouse posters have said this retail enviroment contributes greatly to airport profitability and they fight tooth and nail to maximise it. There are some intresting computer models worked up by variouse airports showing what shops, and what passengers and flights produce the greater revenue. You will see more and more terminals evolving into the "mall type" although food outlets and lounges still prefer to have airside views. The prospect of clogging this space with passengers with bags etc would fill my clients with dread !.