New images of Bangalore International Airport Terminal One extension from HOK
No longer a ‘pensioner’s paradise’, the metropolitan city of Bangalore is expanding at such a rapid pace that its main international transport hub – Bangalore (Bengaluru) International Airport – is already in desperate need of expansion. Having only opened some two years ago, the airport’s Terminal One is preparing for a large-scale extension project, designed by international architecture firm HOK.
As these images clearly demonstrate, this is no basic extension. The sweeping canopy roof system provides a welcoming environment for passengers, not only sheltering them from the occasionally adverse weather conditions but solidifying a clear message that Bangalore is now the gateway to Southern India. Currently boasting 72,000 sq m, Terminal One will be almost doubled to 134,000 sq m in order to cater to steadily climbing visitor numbers.
As the Garden City affirms its position as India’s third most populous city and fifth-most populous urban agglomeration, is has become imperative to cement Bangalore’s physical presence through the expression of dramatic architecture. Across the globe, cosmopolitan cities represent elements of their history and culture in tangible architectural art forms – London has the Houses of Parliament, the Gherkin, Central St Giles and even the O2; New York has the Empire State, the Chrysler Building, The Standard and Cooper Union; Dubai has Burj Khalifa, ‘The World’ and The Dubai Pearl with Meydan City in the works.
With passenger traffic estimated to rise from 10.6m to 17m by 2015, an opportunity was presented to expand on current progress whilst reinforcing the city’s place as a diverse economic and cultural hub. HOK’s design therefore features radiant interiors to ‘mirror the rich culture of the state of Karnataka and vibrant colours of the garden city’.
Additional baggage reclaim belts will be inserted, whilst check-in desk numbers will be increased to 83. Seating arrangements within the new terminal will also increase from 2,300 to 5,300; however should predictions ring true and the airport receive over 45,000 passengers per day, it is questionable as to whether only 5,300 seats will suffice.
HOK Vice President, Anthony Leslie, who led the project team explains: “The masterplan design for the expansion of Bangalore International Airport’s Terminal One is both modern and striking and will help to further secure the city’s position on the world stage. The masterplan will help to drive wider economic growth and reflect the region’s dynamic aspirations and role as the information technology hub of the country.”
Construction is set to commence this autumn and is estimated to last 18 months.
Sian Disson
News Editor
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