As the sixth busiest airport in the world, to ensure that it can continue to cater for increased demand, more than $1.5 billion (€1.2bn) is being invested in the latest stage of the LAX development project.
This major investment is part of Los Angeles World Airports’ (LAWA) long-term master plan, which has already seen the successful completion of a number of improvement works. These include the $333 million (€273m) South Airfield Improvement Programme, the implementation of the in-line baggage screening system and the $723 million (€592m) ‘face-lift’ to TBIT, which was completed in March this year.
As the leading architect for the Bradley West Project, Fentress Architects is charged with ensuring that the modernisation of the airport dramatically improves both the passenger experience and the airport’s operations, while also satisfying a number of environmental criteria.
Curtis Fentress, principal-in-charge of design, Fentress Architects, said: “This is a defining moment in the history of Los Angeles. The Bradley West Terminal and future modernisations will establish a new regional icon that embodies the character of Los Angeles and transforms LAX into the airport of the future.”
The project will see the addition of 116,000sqm of new terminal area, which will include food and beverage (F&B) and retail concessions, new premium lounge space and enlarged Customs and Border Protection facilities. In addition, the new concourses will contain 15 new boarding gates and enlarged passenger seating areas to accommodate new-generation aircraft such as the A380.
In compliance with LAWA’s Sustainable Design and Construction Guidelines, a major focus has also been placed on ensuring that the project contributes to a ‘greener’ LAX. In order to do so, optimised use of recycled building material and a focus on energy efficiency will also form an integral part of the overall project.
Keith Mawson, corporate director of aviation programmes, LEO A DALY: “The renovations will enhance passenger security and comfort and facilitate efficient baggage screening, while reducing congestion in lobbies.”
TBIT renovation focuses on sustainability
The $723 million (€592m) face-lift to Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) was completed in March, bringing interior improvements, a state-of-the-art in-line checked-baggage security system, new gate space to accommodate the A380 and other upgraded infrastructure. In April, the project – for which LEO A DALY served as the designer and executive architect – won a prestigious Associated General Contractors of California award in the category ‘Meeting the Challenge of the Difficult Job – Builder Classification’.
The TBIT renovation is the single largest construction project in LAX history and it will also become the first aviation facility in the US, once certified, to be awarded the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Silver rating by the US Green Building Council.
Instead of demolishing the existing structure, 100% of the building structure was reused with the shell maintained. The terminal’s lighting control system was automated to reduce energy consumption and an energy-efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning system was also installed. Wherever possible, local and sustainable building materials and finishes were used with a requirement of 70% recycled content.
“The renovations will enhance passenger security and comfort and facilitate efficient baggage screening, while reducing congestion in lobbies,” said Keith Mawson, corporate director of aviation programmes, LEO A DALY. “Additionally, the sustainable elements incorporated in this project will result in long-term cost savings and increased energy efficiency.”
