Tenderstream members part of consortium selected to expand terminal buildings

The Anemos consortium consisting of Tenderstream members Grimshaw and Arup – alongside Haptic, K-Studio, Leslie Jones, Triagonal and Plan A - has been appointed to design the expansion of Athens International Airport (AIA). Originally designed and constructed by Hochtief and completed in 2001 ready for the Athens 2004 Summer Olympics, AIA is the largest airport in Greece. The 540m GBP project will increase the capacity of the airport from 26 to 40 million passengers by 2032 through a phased programme delivered within a live operational airport environment.

Unifying the existing airport with new elements is central to the design concept. For the main terminal building, a distinct, repetitive and modular façade creates a ‘lifted’ internal colonnade, defined by stone vertical fins extending across the structure. Intersecting this rhythm are six new portals, providing an order and scale that directs passengers to the new check-in/departures hall. Inside the hall, the soffit is lifted, diffusing daylight into this busy transitional space.

The north oculus features a landscaped Mediterranean garden set in a 24.5-metre-high circular, tiered space, containing VIP lounges and commercial zones. In the south oculus, three terraced levels are arranged around an atrium area with generous seating and extensive landscaping, alongside smaller food and drink outlets. Daylight is diffused across the space, providing long views across the terminal towards the departure gates. As part of the proposals, the secondary terminal building will change function to a dedicated Extra Schengen facility with operational and spatial modifications. 

Andrew Thomas, managing Partner at Grimshaw, states: “Athens is a spectacular city that has seen a huge increase in visitor numbers over the last decade, far beyond what its existing airport can comfortably support. Responding to this challenge, we’ve been excited to work with Athens International Airport to create a bold new vision that retains and renews the existing terminal building while adding a series of major new extensions, to create a singular new architectural whole. Our design is inspired by the city: an airport that reflects the past, present and future of Athens, a celebration of its architecture, hospitality and culture.”

Lucy Nordberg

Tenderstream Head of Research

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