Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport, Terminal Expansion

The design of the BTR Airport expansion solved a complex challenge: How to restore the original vision of the airport as a dynamic public space that brings together passengers and families, while providing the enhanced amenities and security required of a modern airport.

The events of 9/11 changed the way the country approached airport security and brought with it significant changes in airport terminal design. BTR airport adapted to fulfill these requirements, relocating and expanding security as required but in the process lost its intended arrival court.

The new expansion relocates security allowing for a celebratory arrival hall that brings together passengers and greeters. A separate pre-flight gallery provides natural light and a panoramic view of arriving and departing planes. The two zones are separated by a glass screen of variable opacity providing both security and transparency.

Drawing on the nature of travel as a grand communal experience, the new BTR airport expansion, creates a dynamic public space that re-establishes the BTR airport as an iconic gateway into Louisiana's Capital city.