Capturing “the Schiphol DNA”: Amsterdam Airport selects winning design for new terminal

THE NETHERLANDS. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol has announced the winning design for its new terminal, which is scheduled to open in 2023.

KAAN Architecten, in collaboration with ABT, Estudio Lamela and Ineco, beat off competition from four other proposals to be selected for the project.

Keep KAAN and carry on: How the new terminal will look when it opens in 2023

The new terminal will form an expansion of Schiphol’s existing terminal and will adjoin Departure and Arrival Halls 1. It will allow 14 million more passengers to travel through Schiphol annually.

Keeping the buildings together allows Schiphol to retain the one terminal concept, and ensure that all the facilities are under one roof, Schiphol Airport Group said.

“This design suits the Schiphol DNA,” said Amsterdam Airport Schiphol CEO Jos Nijhuis. “That was the main reason why the jury decided to choose this design. The design solution contributes to excellent processing, it provides optimal support to passengers, contributes to our sustainability ambitions and is future-proof. We are looking forward to welcoming airlines and passengers in the new terminal and adjacent new pier.”

KAAN Architecten said of its design for the terminal: “The most inspiring architectural and planning DNA at Schiphol for our design team is that of the 1967 Departures Hall. DNA which is characterised by abundant daylight, simplicity of space and a substantial spatiality. It is particularly striking that materials and construction are so minimally conspicuous.

“The repetitions that defines the space – the row of columns, the information panels, the ticket kiosks, the façade ribs, the ceiling lamps – all contribute to a calming rhythm. This is the true essence of Schiphol’s DNA: functionality is a priority – an exacting rather than bare functionality – it is exacting in how the functionality embeds comfort, daily ease of use and a suitability of purpose. This leads to a natural simplicity.”

The expansion project is part of Schiphol Group’s Capital Programme at the airport, whose aim is “to strengthen the competitive position of Mainport Schiphol, keep pace with the growth in aviation and continue to develop the position of ‘preferred airport’ among both airlines and passengers”.

Capital Programme Director Bernardo Gogna said on behalf of the jury: “We, at the Capital Programme, were overwhelmed by the craftsmanship, the passion and the quality shown by all the design teams. It was an honour to receive them and to be inspired by their designs. We would like to thank all the participating design teams sincerely for their incredible effort and dedication. We also want to thank them for their contribution to the debate on the future of Schiphol and on aviation terminals.”

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