         
Terminal built up area: 107,639 sq. ft.
Location: Tirana, Albania
Client: Hochtief Airport GmbH and Tirana International Airport SHPK
Completed and operational: March 2007
Terminal capacity: 1.5m ppa
Expansion capacity: 3.0m ppa
Airport consultants: Hochtief Airport GmbH
Introduction
Probably the most significant project of our office, TIA has allowed us to design on a level of creativity that is only accorded to the exclusive few. From a functional diagram to a fully functioning airport, the importance of successfully articulating our Client’s needs and our architectural objectives can be seen in this truly delightful piece of building, landscape and services infrastructure.
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THE DESIGN PROCESS
The form of Tirana International Airport is a simple mono pitch roof falling gradually towards the apron. The front of the building is high, creating the lofty height that characterizes the departures curbside and the market place. Over the departures hall, the roof is formed with deep trusses, and the gently curving soffit of perforated metal is used to conceal mechanical equipment within. As one moves towards the departure lounge, the building height decreases. The security hall is capped by a graceful catenary structure supporting light steel tubes to form a cage.
Arriving passengers will experience Albanian hospitality immediately at the doorstep in the arrivals piazza. This space has been conceived as a true Mediterranean outdoor space, south facing, semi protected and complete with a bistro/café.
This is the “culture space” that will distinguish this airport from the others. It will be a poignant reminder for Albanians that they have returned home.
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