BIG works in collaboration with aviation engineering studio NACO to design the Gelephu International Airport. It is set to open in 2029, and the terminal will be the second international airport in the country of Bhutan. It is set on the background of subtropical forests and mountains.
Partner at BIG, Frederik Lyng speaks about the design, stating, "For the Gelephu International Airport, we wanted to create an experience that feels deeply Bhutanese – calm, welcoming, and connected to nature. The airport will provide an outstanding passenger experience, where generous daylit spaces, elements of the Bhutanese landscape, and the intricate carvings of the Bhutanese craftsmen go hand in hand to gently guide the passenger through the terminal."
Image Credit: BIG
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Biophilic Design Integration
- Harnessing the aesthetics of natural landscapes within architectural designs presents opportunities to enrich the user experience in modern structures.
- Cultural Resonance Architecture
- Structures that embody the cultural essence of their locale can provide a more meaningful and immersive experience for international travelers.
- Sustainable Aviation Infrastructure
- Developing airport terminals that blend with natural surroundings highlights a shift towards environmentally conscious airport designs.
- Industries Related to Biophilic Design Integration:
- Leveraging the influence of biophilic elements can drive innovation in the commercial architecture sector.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Airport Design and Construction
- Airports designed with an emphasis on local culture and environment can revolutionize passenger expectations and experiences.
- Cultural Tourism
- Tourism focused on cultural and environmental harmony offers growth potential in the hospitality and travel industries.
- Green Architecture
- Architectural firms innovating in the integration of ecological elements with infrastructure design are poised to lead the sustainability movement.
