Sofia Airport Expansion

Lean design approach
Intermodal connectivity Sustainable Design

Location:

Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia Airport’s expansion is a project of national importance. The Government’s aspiration is to deliver an iconic new terminal building that will be a gateway to Bulgaria, meeting the current travel demand and supporting growth.

The airport was designed for 2.6mppa and was handling 4mppa requiring a clear expansion plan to meet this growth. The terminal infrastructure also required modernisation to address the poor passenger experience ratings. Terminal 1 was reaching the end of its design life and Terminal 2 needed major replanning to provide arriving and departing passenger segregation, additional security search lanes, and an enhanced retail offer.

Phased improvements

We developed a strategy for the Airport’s growth that is easily adapted in response to changes in demand. We addressed the immediate operational and retail /commercial issues providing a highly flexible space that accommodates future changes of requirements and new technologies. A short-term asset improvement programme for Terminal 1 was incorporated to extend its design life at minimal cost until replacement facilities are constructed in Terminal 2.

Lean design approach

We proposed Terminal 2 be expanded to the east and west in incremental phases providing additional floor area. By replacing the façade and roof a new iconic terminal appearance will be created. A lean approach to design was applied. Only what is essentially needed is provided creating a stripped-back aesthetic of exposed surfaces and self-finished materials requiring each material and assembly to perform multiple functions.

Intermodal connectivity

As the airport grows it will become a hub for intermodal connectivity. We set out proposals for the terminal expansion to be built on land to the west of Terminal 2 placing the metro station and bus interchange at the heart of the growth.

Initial masterplan proposals were developed including a cargo/logistics terminal, airport city and wider aerotropolis commercial development on airport land, creating new non-aeronautical revenue streams.

Sustainable Design

We introduced systems to reduce energy, water consumption and costs, meeting environmental requirements. A decentralised ventilation system reduces duct runs combined with heat recovery systems, solar shading, photovoltaics panels and environmental controls.