International Architecture Awards Tell a friend
ARCHIVE 2024
International Architecture Awards
Architects: Fentress Architects
Lead Architect: Curtis Fentress
Architects of Record: HNTB Corporation
Associate Architects: Baker Barrios, MLM Martin, Ramski & Co., and Rhodes & Brito
General Contractors: Hensel Phelps Construction and Turner-Kiewit JV
Client: Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
Photographers: Michael Robinson
Typified by the region's unique qualities of Sky, Water, and Flora, Orlando International Airport's (MCO) new Terminal C exemplifies The Orlando ExperienceTM. These themes inspired the design and are the defining biophilic elements of the new Terminal. This framework expresses the design elements while integrating innovative technologies to create a unique and memorable experience for passengers as they start and end their journey to this destination city.
This project utilized urban design principles creating human-scale spaces to support the wellbeing of passengers. Breaking with convention, the baggage claim and ticketing levels were transposed to create a grand arrivals hall on the top floor celebrating passengers' arrival to Orlando. With its continuous skylight of varying blue frits, the 1,000-foot-long Boulevard is the main circulation spine and connects with the adjacent intermodal terminal. Town Square and Palm Court are plaza-scaled punctuations along the Boulevard that provide central gathering places for visitors. The entire route from concourse to curbside is characterized by the different qualities of daylight - dappling through palm fronds and skylights celebrating the arrival experience. Technology is integrated into interior design to support and facilitate the processes of air travel. Within Palm Court, the Moment Vault provides an immersive, interactive multimedia experience that delights passengers of all ages.
This dynamic media element is a sculptural art piece that creates movement similar to water. The metal structure also has an open pattern that gives texture and allows light to penetrate. On the concourse, Windows on Orlando - a large-scale media triptych - welcomes passengers with curated imagery of Central Florida's natural environment. Arriving domestic passengers deplane onto spacious concourses flanked with expansive windows and an elevated glass corridor connects international travelers with their physical environment re-adjusting their circadian rhythms.
The skylit Palm Court atrium anchors the airside terminus of the central Boulevard, directing international arrivals towards baggage claim and Customs and Immigration. Domestic passengers follow a similar route to generous, post-baggage spaces accentuated by double-height feature art walls of colored three-form resin panels. These panels are five shades of blue articulating the movement of water. With the skylight above, these light wells contribute different qualities of daylight and penetrate the lower levels. Other bespoke biophilic design elements can be seen in furniture and millwork with palettes that continue the nature-inspired design. Retail and concessions use wood retail frame storefronts to create a holistic design for the different tenants. The fabrics for the hold room furniture are varying shades of blue and seafoam green with wooden side tables and benches that have patterns emulating varying shades found on palm trees.
The seating arrangements are reminiscent of familiar third-place environments such as coffee shops, a wine bar, or a quiet nook in a favorite bookstore - all equipped with charging stations. With soaring lines and sweeping vistas, incorporating nature and abundant daylight, the architecture and interiors create an unparalleled “sense of place.” Its unique design showcases the natural beauty of central Florida and provides endless opportunities as the first and last impression of Orlando.
