Global Dutch firm UNStudio has been selected to design the new extension of Georgia's Kutaisi International Airport, just five years later from its official opening on September 2012. After that date, the UNStudio-designed Kutaisi International Airport has reached the capacity of carrying 12,915 passengers per year to more than 300,000 in 2016. The predictions showed that it is expected to reach a capacity of close to 1,000,000 passengers by 2020.

UNStudio's new design scheme proposes a linear composition with topological variations taking inspiration from the beautiful Caucasus Mountains - which can be seen on the horizon.

UNStudio completed the existing Kutaisi International Airport in 2012. Image © Nakanimamasakhlisi

"The existing terminal, with its 'umbrella' like lobby and its intimate external courtyard, is transformed to become the Departure hall. The Arrivals hall is situated on the other end of the new terminal and has a formal functional approach with maximum area for underground luggage handling and customs service," said UNStudio.

UNStudio's goal for the large extension of the Kutaisi International Airport terminal is primarily to create a user-oriented experience where the health and comfort of every single passenger is serviced through the correct application of architecture and spatial design.

"Facing the task of upgrading the capacity of the terminal it was decided to follow a unique and forward thinking approach that ensures the visual connection of the airport drop of areas of both departure and apron," added the studio.

With Airport Consultant IATA, five very clear and distinct functional islands were created: Departure hall, Security area, Central passenger hall, Back of house offices and Arrival hall.

The studio will enhance the transparency and openness of the Departure, Central and Arrival halls and it will provide a pleasant and comfortable travel experience. Analyzing the patterns of the correct human scale, flow and spatial language, the architects will use the correct materialisation for these areas, forming the basis of providing comfort for every visitor.

"For the new Central passenger hall another strong architectural feature was created which relates to the umbrella and courtyard," said the firm.

"An elevated plaza is therefore introduced that gradually brings passengers up to higher levels in the terminal and - alongside food and beverage outlets - will act as a green recreational hub and waiting area for early arrivals, visitors and their families. The elevated plaza runs up to the roof level and, by splitting the length of the terminal, creates another moment of orientation."

Kutaisi extension design vision concept diagram interior

"From here it is possible to facilitate the use of the outdoor environment where family and friends can easily observe the arrival of their loved ones, or where passengers can enjoy a little break out time before a long journey. United Airports can also organise events in the new terminal and use the outdoor plaza for advertisement purposes," added the studio.

The UNStudio designed Kutaisi International Airport was recently voted one of the 13 most beautiful airports in the world by Curbed magazine (May 2017). 

Kutaisi extension design vision concept diagram 

Kutaisi extension design vision interior impressions

Kutaisi extension design vision phasing diagram

Video by UNStudio

All renderings / animation © VA-render

> via UNStudio