Lahore Airport Expansion Allama Iqbal Airport

The expansion of the Allama Iqbal Int’l Airport to hold 20 million passengers attempts to respect the functional and aesthetic values of the existing terminal. The instrument to achieve this relies on building around the existing terminal and leave a buffer zone to mediate between both buildings. This buffer zone is architecturally an open patio with a garden that will introduce light in both buildings and that it will be experienced from the different floor levels. This organizational principle requires that the height of the different floor levels is maintained in both existing and new levels, so that the connections are simple and functional.

The connections in levels above ground floor are made through glazed bridges that connect existing openings in the façade of the existing building with the new terminal.

A main design feature is to integrate the new terminal building within the flat landscape in which it seats, respecting the prominence of the existing terminal building from the views that take place while approaching the terminal through the access roads. The incorporation of gardens within the terminal reflects on the rich natural and cultural heritage of Pakistan. It also helps to enhance the well being of passengers and companions.

The tradition in Pakistan is that the family and friends accompany the traveller to the airport to say good bye and to welcome him. The median value of 3 companions by traveller, given to us by the airport representatives, reflects that tradition.

We have noticed that the time that the companions spend in the airport is also considerable. Following this, we propose to create a large Concourse Hall that will house travellers and companions, and that will provide for enough beautiful space so that coming to the airport becomes a memorable experience. The Concourse Hall, used in this way, has also an incredible potential as a source of revenue through the outsourcing of restaurants, coffee shops and commercial concessions. In this sense we have designed a ring of concessionary units that surround the open Concourse Hall that will help to create a happy and vibrant atmosphere for all.

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