The newly constructed international airport terminal offers a seamless travel experience while creating an immersive and aesthetically pleasing environment. The design skillfully blends innovation, sustainability, and elegance, setting the standard for future airport designs worldwide. One of the standout features of the terminal is the copper feature ceiling, provided by the manufacturer. Inspired by the sunlight filtering through the live oak tree canopies surrounding Houston, the ceiling features custom-angled, elliptical tabs that reflect light in various ways, mimicking the dynamic light play seen through the leaves of the oaks. The design’s openings filter daylight from the clerestory above, creating a connection with nature while enhancing the overall passenger experience.
The manufacturer worked closely with the architects during the preconstruction phase to engineer and develop the ceiling. Through collaborative discussions, the manufacturer created multiple renderings and 3D CAD models, allowing the design to evolve before final approval. Full-size panel mockups were constructed for review, ensuring that the ceiling met both aesthetic and functional goals.
The manufacturer was selected as the basis of design in the bid specifications. Following the bidding process, the project was awarded to the manufacturer, and upon receiving the purchase order, they began developing detailed submittal drawings. These drawings outlined the panel layouts, sizes, and shapes, and included custom color matching to achieve the specified ‘copper penny’ finish, which matched the desired color, shine, and luster. Once the submittals were approved, the manufacturer proceeded with 3D renderings of the entire ceiling, generating precise fabrication drawings for each component.
To ensure the design met the highest standards, in-house mockups were created for a final check of the panel design and finishes. Panels were crafted to span the length of the terminal, with each panel meticulously manufactured and powder-coated for consistent quality. Panels were shipped flat and each tab was manually bent to different angles on-site, creating a unique pattern. The manufacturer provided special jigs and templates to help with this process.
Like any large-scale project, challenges arose due to inconsistencies in field conditions, requiring the creation of multiple panel types and additional CAD labor. Tight installation schedules necessitated phased production releases, requiring close coordination between the contractor and the manufacturer. A detailed Critical-Path-Method (CPM) schedule was developed to ensure production and shipments stayed on track. The manufacturer also visited the job site to assist with field measurements, ensuring precise tolerances were maintained during installation.
In addition to the copper ceilings, the manufacturer contributed other design elements to the terminal, including lighted beam baffles, acoustical torsion spring ceilings, column covers and wood-look wall claddings. Through open collaboration and diligent teamwork, all aspects of the project were successfully completed to meet the architect’s design specifications and the project’s timeline.
The copper ceiling is more than just a visual feature—it also pays tribute to the region's history. Completing this project amid the challenges of live airport operations and record passenger traffic was a remarkable achievement. The successful partnership of all involved makes this project deserving of a 2025 CISCA Award.
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