Renovation of Muhammad Ali International Airport
Assignment
Louisville Airport, now named Muhammad Ali International Airport, is planning to go through an extensive expansion and renovation, focusing on passenger experience from the moment they arrive to the parking lot, all the way to the gate-hold area.
Process
The early concept of the canopies was inspired by Louisville’s rich history of distilling bourbon. Bourbon is aged in charred oak barrels. The walls of the barrels, influenced by weather, push bourbon in and out their walls and give the drink its unique taste and color. The shape of the canopy speaks to this process, giving the terminal image a unique sculptural look. The glass portions of the canopy could be expressed in color, filtering light and giving a warm glow even on a cloudy day.