Embracing Nature: The Transformative Renovation of Portland International Airport

by GlassBalkan
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The Transformative Renovation of Portland International Airport

The newly renovated Portland International Airport (PDX) stands as a testament to the harmonious integration of architecture and nature.

By featuring an expansive 392,000-square-foot wooden structure crowned with a majestic wood-beamed ceiling and 49 skylights, the project, led by ZGF Architects, is not just a functional terminal but a welcoming embodiment of Oregon’s lush wilderness. This $2.15 billion renovation aspires to evoke the serene experience of strolling through a Pacific Northwest forest, a vision successfully brought to life through innovative design and sustainable practices.

A Design Inspired by the Pacific Northwest

ZGF has masterfully woven elements of Oregon’s natural landscape into the renovated terminal, utilizing abundant wood and glass to create a space that feels both inviting and expansive. The interior boasts two striking glass walls designed by artist Yoonhee Choi, spanning 56 feet in length and 11 feet in height. These walls are adorned with colorful and whimsical patterns, thoughtfully interspersed with intentional blank spaces that invite interpretation and reflection, enriching the passenger experience.

The terminal’s design incorporates 3.5 million board feet of Douglas fir, sustainably sourced from regional family-owned forests, nonprofits, and tribal nations. The prefabricated curved roof, which exemplifies the largest mass timber project of its kind, showcases innovative glue-lamination techniques that not only add strength but also significantly decrease the project’s carbon footprint. By constructing the roof in 20 modular sections, ZGF demonstrated efficiency in assembly while minimizing disruptions to airport operations.

The Transformative Renovation of Portland International Airport

Photo: DeaMor.

Natural Light and Sustainability at the Forefront

At the heart of the terminal’s design are the skylights from DeaMor Associates. These skylights come in various shapes—circular and oval—and are strategically placed to enhance natural light while mimicking the experience of being under tree branches. Notably, some skylights are designed to filter and diffuse light without overwhelming the terminal’s interior, ensuring passenger comfort.

Tested rigorously, these skylights consist of 32,000 square feet of high-performance, low-iron glass, effectively balancing aesthetics, performance, and energy efficiency. In total, the terminal harnesses daylight in 60% of its space, leading to a remarkable 50% reduction in energy use per square foot, further underscoring ZGF’s commitment to sustainability.

Innovative Structural Solutions

ZGF’s design not only centers on aesthetics and energy efficiency but also on resilience. The terminal is engineered to withstand a 9.0 magnitude earthquake, a critical consideration given Oregon’s seismic activity. The unique design of the curtain wall allows the building to sway independently from the rigid building structure. This flexibility enhances safety without compromising the integrity of the overall design.

Moreover, the façade features strategically placed extruded aluminum fins to minimize direct sunlight while maintaining breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. These architectural elements reduce glare and energy loss, showcasing a meticulous balance between functionality and comfort.

The renovation of Portland International Airport is more than a construction project; it is a reflection of the region’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and appreciation of natural beauty. By prioritizing the integration of nature and architecture, ZGF has created a terminal that not only serves its passengers but also stands as an enduring symbol of Oregon’s environmental ethos. As travelers set foot in this transformative space, they embark on a journey that begins with a breathtaking embrace of the Pacific Northwest—one where the beauty of the forest meets the modernity of design.

 

 

Source:GlassBalkan

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