Ah, but the OP was talking about situations when one arrives with checked bags, which would present a problem getting airside. FWIW, in the UK, many arrivals lounges are landside.

Personally, I have mixed feelings on the subject. Airside lounges are more convenient in terms of checking in, clearing security and then being pretty much done with hassle. On the other hand, at non-smoking airports, landside lounges make it a lot easier to pop outside for a quick smoke