The airport recently revealed its cutting-edge international arrivals facility, characterized by a futuristic design seamlessly blending with the city's rich history. The architectural features, including ceilings and claddings along the arrivals tunnel, serve as canvases for captivating art installations, contributing to a visually appealing and culturally resonant environment. The design challenge laid in creating an acoustical and durable yet aesthetically pleasing space in a
high-traffic area.
The manufacturer played a pivotal role in the project, collaborating closely with both architect and the general contractor and architect during the pre-construction phase. While the architect provided the visionary design, the manufacturer proposed suitable architectural materials and systems to bring the concept to life. The architect's vision involved a continuous image wall system spanning the corridor's length on both sides, showcasing the city's history while ensuring durability. Key design elements for the ceiling included acoustics and plenum accessibility, and an inviting anamorphic graphic in blue and red was incorporated to convey a warm welcome to passengers.
For the corridor image walls, the manufacturer suggested the use of CeramicSteel, a material combining the durability of porcelain and steel. This material is resistant to scratches, stains, graffiti, fire, bacteria, chemicals, and corrosion. Digital print technology was employed to imprint images seamlessly onto the CeramicSteel surface. The attachment system, engineered with precision, ensured a seamless and cohesive aesthetic without gaps between adjacent panels.
In addressing the acoustical requirements and maintenance accessibility, the manufacturer proposed a perforated torsion spring ceiling. This ceiling system not only provided high acoustical performance but also allowed easy access for maintenance workers to manage mechanical components above while minimizing noise in the tunnel. The anamorphic graphics extended across the ceilings and upper portions of the walls, requiring a harmonious integration of all three systems to fulfill the design intent.
The complexity of integrating imagery across walls and ceilings necessitated meticulous engineering. The manufacturer's engineering team created a detailed 3D model and proposal drawings for the design team's review. Upon approval, the manufacturer and the installing contractor collaborated to field verify the design, refining layouts based on laser-measured dimensions. Once verified, fabrication drawings were generated, undergoing rigorous reviews to ensure alignment with field measurements.
To guarantee the system's fit and function, a factory-built mock-up of a section of the wall and ceiling was created and sent to the site for approval by the design team. Once accepted, production commenced. With zero room for error and precise tolerances, that had to be maintained, panels and attachment system were meticulously programmed and quality-checked to ensure perfect alignment of printed images. The manufacturer and the installing contractor worked tirelessly to expedite the design and installation schedule, ensuring the system's completion well before project deadlines. The collaborative efforts of the wall claddings, ceiling, and anamorphic graphics resulted in a visually striking architectural display. Such meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail make it a strong contender for the 2024 CISCA Construction Excellence Award, a testament to its outstanding contribution to architectural innovation and execution.
Illustration exhibiting a smooth transition of images and anamorphic graphics seamlessly flowing between neighboring panels.
Visual representation depicting panels crafted and installed with precision to guarantee a flawless continuity of images.
A breathtaking sight of the Airport Arrivals Tunnel showcasing wall claddings and ceilings adorned with mesmerizing anamorphic graphics.