Being the latest architectural development for the Republic of Georgia, the new International Airport in Kutaisi and it will provide international and domestic flights both for tourists and also for political figures, diplomats, and politicians. Apart from the airport, which is envisioned as a central hub for the short run, the master plan includes revision of the runaway and landscape, terminal building, offices, a meteorological station and the air traffic control tower. UNStudio have designed the terminal in quite a simplistic and straightforward manner, following the grid principles thus creating a passage of straight lines and glazed facades for visibility and light. However, the focal point that serves as an attention attraction is the highlighted in red structural detail, incorporated into the façade. It resembles an hourglass shape compiled of straight lines, which sort of twist and go inward at the intersection point in the middle. This being featured in the same straight line as the glazed façade is what turns the exterior into an attractive piece of architecture.
Photography By© UNStudio
UNStudio playfully refer to the red corner element as the ‘umbrella’ and is meant to guide passengers’ transition, orientation and routes. This spatial element also houses an exterior patio serving as a departure point and offers essential views from the terminal. Its dynamic layout and composition are designed to moderate and model the natural flow of arrivals/departures by creating naturally led transitions so no obstruction, stress and crowding is at present. Henceforth, UNStudio have successfully incorporated their notion of an effective experiential environment. As much as the exterior is quite simplistic and grid-like, the interior focal element compliments the red exterior umbrella. And as much as the interior environment is conceived as spacious and naturally well-lit, it creates a vista towards a point where the roof undulates towards the floor. This geometric shape is more complex and deriving its design from parametric modeling, it is prone to manipulation and moderation of its parameters. Hence the outcome is that it is articulated to offer seating area and areas of comfort, waiting zones, etc. The ambitious aims of UNstudio have been realized in terms of sustainable approaches as well – there is low pressure ventilation system, grey water collection system, and strict segregation of waste is to be considered too. With a design that offers comfort, ease, space for free circulation and optimal security, this new International Airport is identified as the Lobby of Georgia and its development – especially by functioning as an art gallery for contemporary Georgian culture.
Photography By© UNStudio
By Yoana Chepisheva
