Canberra International Airport

Canberra, Australia

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Mawson Institute, Adelaide, Australia

Canberra International Airport

Canberra, Australia

Firm

Guida Moseley Brown Architects

Type

Transport + Infrastructure › Airport

STATUS

Built

YEAR

2013

Photos

Rodrigo Vargas Photography (6), Ginette Snow (4)

The design of the new terminal complex drew upon, and aimed to contribute to, the formal identity of the National Capital, identifying a major public building, viewed and accessed along a newly constructed axial landscaped roadway system, reflecting the similar setting of other major public buildings in Canberra.

The plan positions two parking structures flanking the axis with direct connection to the terminal at ground and second levels, eliminating pedestrian/vehicle conflicts. The axis of the landscape is continued through the terminal, and marked by a three-storey atrium. The central atrium incorporates the security check area and continues to air-side, with a large window overlooking the take-offs and landings, and the landscape beyond.

An elevated road leads directly to the second level drop-off to Departures, with ticketing hall, baggage drops and related facilities. After passing through the security check the plan is arranged in a long arc with departure gate waiting areas along the glass wall. Airline club facilities are at the third level.

Passengers arriving by air depart the airplane at the second level and then move to the ground level baggage claim by way of dedicated secure vertical transportation. The baggage claim overlooks and has access to landscaped courtyards incorporating waterworks, trees, greenery, shade structures, seating, lighting, and artworks. At this level one also has access to an enclosed taxi waiting area, bus pick-up zone, car rentals, and car parking.

Baggage management and airside services are located at ground level opposite from the baggage claim, and plantroom spaces occupy the basement. Two four storey plant rooms provide the facilities for Tri-generation, and are located so that access to the majority of plant equipment can be serviced outside of the secure zones. Secure service deliveries lead to the basement where distribution of goods takes place.