The Configurable Terminal
A design framework for an adaptable airport terminal
S.A.P. Suijs (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
H.A. van Bennekom – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
R. Heykant – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
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Abstract
Airports are complex buildings and vary greatly in size, from small regional airports to enormous international hubs. They are multi-functional structures that combine many different functions and are subject to constant change due to ever-changing passenger and airline demands, technological aircraft advances and operational needs. This is why airports are constantly evolving, and especially the passenger terminal building.
Many passenger terminals or entire airports have been closed since they were unable to adapt to these changing needs. Consequently, new construction or extensive renovations are required, resulting in high and unnecessary construction costs. Therefore, this research focuses on the design of an adaptive terminal concept by answering the following question: How can an airport terminal be designed as an adaptable framework that can adjust to changing air travel conditions over time?
The outcome of this graduation project is an adaptive design for an airport terminal. The design is site-independent and could be implemented in various regions around the world. A configurator has been developed to allow the terminal to be customised as desired and based on the specific construction site. In addition, the terminal has been designed to be modular and adaptable. The structure, facade and roof are completely demountable, whilst the interior consists of smaller modules, making it easier to expand and adjust. Plans for possible expansion phases of the terminal have already been considered and elaborated in concept.