DESIGN
world-class retail, food and beverages, are located along travellers’ natural routes through the building. The airport is so easy to use because it is well planned. Since I began working at Fentress Architects, I have come to understand what makes their buildings, such as Incheon’s passenger terminal, convenient, efficient and inspiring. The difference is their design philosophy, captured in the eight ‘touchstones of design’. Travelling through Incheon, it’s clear how these guiding design principals have created an architectural masterpiece, and a global gateway to the Asia-Pacific region.
When designing buildings, it is essential to discover the natural order. How people move through a building helps shape it. This process of discovery requires a meticulous immersion in the mindset of the passenger, the airline representative, and the community as a whole, to create the best possible experience.
At Incheon, Fentress’ solution is manifested in the
sweeping U-shaped curve of the terminal, which reduces the walking distance to less than 120-metres from kerbside to gate by utilising a system of moving sidewalks. Using natural cues and variations of space, light, materials and patterns, travel becomes very intuitive for everyone. Some 250 check-in counters and additional self-service kiosks are strategically arranged so that departing passengers flow around them, creating a fluid circulation. Passengers descend to the concourse level where they quickly pass through one of 28 security checkpoint stations or passport control and customs, where they actually feel welcomed. Clear, multi-lingual signage guides passengers to the Millennium Hall and the curved concourse beyond. Though 10 years of wear and tear have passed, Incheon’s passenger terminal has not aged one bit. It still looks brand new, with a refreshing, bright aesthetic. Master planned with ultimate flexibility and the ability to easily expand and adapt, the airport will serve South Korea for decades more. Besides spotless maintenance, Incheon’s timeless design was achieved by expressing the ultimate Korean aesthetic. Fentress allowed the local culture to guide the design. When designing Incheon, architect, Curtis Fentress, became immersed in the culture, touring museums and historic sites, as well as sampling native foods.
He found that traditional Korean homes used heated floors. Patterns and geometries found only in Korean design and crafts have survived for millennia, and among the most popular for rooflines is the catenary curve. Through this immersion, the design captured the essence of the nation’s culture and way of life. As a result, every space is ‘day-lit’ and conveys a natural feeling. Fentress’ design offers a refreshing, tranquil atmosphere that often calms and comforts passengers, making multiple hour layovers enjoyable, and sometimes even adventurous.
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From the Millennium Hall, where traditional Korean dances are performed, to a nearby shop where native craft activities are offered to visitors at no cost, the terminal is a celebration of Korea’s traditions and aspirations. I firmly believe that these strong cultural references attract and unify travellers, and have played a significant role in helping establish Incheon as a memorable gateway to South Korea and the Asia-Pacific region. The design showcases the nation’s art, traditions and culture with a welcoming ambiance. For these reasons, Incheon will certainly continue to stand the test of time.
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