The World's Most Beautiful Airport
Terminals — And What They Teach Us About Great Design
Great architecture doesn't stop at the front door, and nowhere is that more true than in today's most
stunning airport terminals. Architectural Digest recently rounded up the 7 most beautiful airport
terminals in the world, spotlighting a fresh crop of Prix Versailles award winners, including two right
here in the US! Each one draws on local landscape and culture to create a space that feels less like a
transit hub and more like a destination in itself.
As a team that spends our days walking through beautifully designed homes, we couldn't resist sharing
a few of our favorites and the design lessons buyers and builders can borrow from them.
The 5 Standout Terminals
Several of this year's standout terminals lean on biophilic design using natural materials, light, and
organic forms to make large spaces feel warm and human-scaled. Here's a closer look at the
highlights, from China to right here in the US:
• Terminal 3, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (China) — takes its cue from the city's
nickname, the “City of Flowers,” with curved forms, gardens, and a warm wood palette in place of
metal and plastic.
• Terminal 2, Guwahati Airport (India) — mirrors an oversized bamboo forest, inspired by the
bamboo orchid, with local art and handicrafts woven throughout.
• Techo International Airport (Cambodia) — designed by Foster + Partners with a woven,
temple-inspired roof that filters sunlight and cuts down on mechanical cooling, proof that
sustainable and striking design aren't mutually exclusive.
• Pittsburgh International Airport (USA) — designed by Gensler and HDR with Luis Vidal +
Architects, using 38 treelike steel columns and glass façades to echo the wooded hills of Western
Pennsylvania, creating an “artificial forest” indoors.
• Terminal 1, San Diego International Airport (USA) — newly modernized by Gensler with an
800-foot curved glass façade developed with artist James Carpenter that floods the space with
natural light.
Why This Matters for Home Design Too
Whether it's an airport or a living room, the same principles show up again and again: natural materials,
abundant daylight, and architecture that reflects a sense of place. If you're building or renovating in
Southern New Hampshire, these are the same ideas we love seeing in new construction, large glass
expanses, local wood and stone, and layouts that connect indoor and outdoor space.
Read the full feature and see the photos on Architectural Digest here.
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