# Manta Ray-Inspired Terminals The Bao'an International Airport is Futuristically Expanded By Meghan Young | Published 2013-11-28 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/baoan-international-airport References: [theverge](http://www.theverge.com/2013/11/28/5154484/baoan-international-airport-terminal-3-studio-fuksis-design) & [fuksas.it](http://www.fuksas.it/home.htm) The Bao'an International Airport is currently undergoing a futuristic expansion that will impressive many. Inspired by the shape of a manta ray, it lies low and spread outwards in such a way that denotes stealth and style. Part of a larger plan to improve the infrastructure of Shenzhen, which enjoys the rare status of Special Economic Zone in the People's Republic of China, the [new terminal](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nomad-abu-dhabi) ushers in some exciting changes. Designed by the [Italian Studio Fuksas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pam01756), the Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 is meant to "celebrate the emotion and fantasy of a flight," as stated by the firm. This is carried out through the entire structure by way of [airy open spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gateway-collection) and tons of natural light. A honeycomb pattern of skylights dot the exterior to achieve this refreshing effect. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.2/10 - Popularity: 56% | Activity: 31% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/architecture) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Manta Ray-inspired Architecture:** Architects and engineers can explore designing buildings and infrastructures that take inspiration from the shapes and forms found in nature, offering unique and visually appealing structures. - **Open and Airy Spaces:** Designers can take inspiration from the airy open spaces of the Bao'an International Airport terminal, creating public spaces that offer an inviting atmosphere and a sense of openness. - **Honeycomb Patterned Skylights:** Incorporating honeycomb patterned skylights into buildings and infrastructures can help introduce natural light and create a visually stunning effect. ### Who This Affects Most - **Architecture:** Architects and engineers can incorporate elements of nature and unique design styles to create visually stunning and functional buildings and infrastructures. - **Construction:** Construction companies can embrace the use of new materials and design concepts to build innovative and functional structures that prioritize open spaces and natural light. - **Airport Industry:** Airports can explore adopting new design concepts that prioritize comfort and a sense of openness, creating a more inviting environment for passengers. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sand Dune-Inspired Airport Roofs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/john-pedersen-fox.md) - [Swooped Roof Chinese Airports](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lishui-airport.md) - [Garden City-Inspired Airport Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/changi-airport-1.md) - [Garden-Like Airport Terminals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kempegowda-international-airport.md) - [LED-Wrapped Airport Renovations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pragues-airport.md) - [Beach-Inspired Metro Stations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tourism-line.md) - [Vineyard-Detailed Airport Terminals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/florence-airport-1.md) - [Red Roof Airport Terminals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aecom.md) - [Expansive Airport Roof Canopies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/portland-airport.md)