Changzhou International Airport extension
project: Changzhou International Airport extension, Jiangsu, China
date: 2008 competition, first place, awaiting execution
client: Changzhou International Airport
category: Aviation, Transportation, Public
function: New airport extension
budget: €48 million
area: 60,000 square metres
role: Architecture, design and coordination
collaborators: PRVS Architecture; Engineers: Aeroporti di Roma (ADR) Engineers; Local Group Leader: China Airport Construction Corporation (CACC); Group Partner: Sistemi sas
Description:
Though the brief for this intervention was defined as an extension, it in fact consisted of planning a standalone airport. One of the main challenges was confronting the problem of the existing water level and the multiple lakes that predominate the terrain. Our solution here was to take advantage of this distinctive characteristic of the site and use it to create a large-scale Oriental-style garden, with water features and green areas gathered together in harmony with both pedestrian pathways and the roads leading in and out of the airport complex. The design of the terminal building itself is characterised by a symmetrical, frontal (curbside) drop-off point and access area along the main facade, the intention of which is to open up the main entrance as a welcoming hug. This idea was then reflected within the entire project by introducing a long opening to the terminal envelope, highlighting its geometry while retaining a clear dialogue with the exterior.