Shaping Space with Curves: Explore the Architectural Fluidity of 4 Modern Airport Projects
Modern airports have increasingly become symbols of architectural innovation, moving beyond their primary function as transportation hubs to become significant landmarks. A prominent trend in contemporary airport design is the use of curved forms to create fluid, dynamic spaces that enhance both functionality and visual impact. These curves, made possible by advancements in construction technology, allow for more flexible and expansive interiors, as well as designs that can better integrate with natural landscapes and improve passenger circulation and experience.
© Hufton + Crow | Beijing Daxing International Airport / Zaha Hadid Architects
Modern airports have increasingly become symbols of architectural innovation, moving beyond their primary function as transportation hubs to become significant landmarks. A prominent trend in contemporary airport design is the use of curved forms to create fluid, dynamic spaces that enhance both functionality and visual impact. These curves, made possible by advancements in construction technology, allow for more flexible and expansive interiors, as well as designs that can better integrate with natural landscapes and improve passenger circulation and experience.
Examples of this approach include Jewel Changi Airport in Singapore, Beijing Daxing International Airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport's Terminal 2 in Mumbai, and Hulunbuir Hailar Airport in Inner Mongolia. Each of these projects employs curvature not only for aesthetic purposes but also to address significant structural challenges. Curved forms in these airports, such as the toroidal dome at Jewel Changi and the radial design at Beijing Daxing, efficiently distribute loads across large spans, minimizing the need for internal supports. This approach allows for expansive, open public spaces that are crucial in airport terminals. The use of reticulated structures, where these curves are often implemented, further enhances efficiency by reducing material usage while maintaining structural integrity. These airports illustrate how curved design can be both a functional and visually cohesive solution in meeting the demands of modern air travel.
