Abha Airport's Architectural Marvel: Foster + Partners' Tapered Stone Design

Abha Airport is One Of Several Being Designed By Foster + Partners

Foster + Partners has revealed their visionary redesign for the Abha Airport terminal in the mountainous city of Abha amidst the breathtaking peaks of Saudi Arabia’s Asir region. Drawing inspiration from the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historic village of Rijal Almaa, renowned for its unique mud-brick architecture, the design departs conventional airport aesthetics. To depart from the traditional centralized structure, Foster + Partners opts for a human-scale approach featuring interconnected clusters designed for specific functions and passenger requirements. These clusters are seamlessly integrated with outdoor courtyards and walkways, evoking the charm of the historic Rijal Almaa stone village.

Foster + Partners Seamlessly Integrates Architecture With The Natural Environment

In the design of the Abha Airport terminal, Foster + Partners not only prioritizes natural elements but also incorporates fresh air, greenery, and natural light throughout the space. The architects aim to enhance the passenger experience by creating a more relaxed and stress-free environment. The design fosters calm and well-being by blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor areas, establishing a new standard for airport architecture. The layout is adapted to the local climate, utilizing a clustered arrangement to leverage prevailing winds for efficient natural ventilation. Durable stone walls and diffused daylighting further maintain a comfortable and calm atmosphere within the interior spaces.

Nikolai Malsch, Senior Partner at Foster + Partners, adds, “Structures lead to landscaped courtyards, enveloped by retail spaces, restaurants, and cafes. Passengers awaiting their flights can explore the shops and indulge in refreshments both indoors and in the open air. Drawing inspiration from the materials used in the adjacent village, the exterior features rugged stone facades that juxtapose with a vibrant and sophisticated interior color scheme. This design choice grounds the Abha Airport in its surroundings, establishing a unique gateway to the Aseer Region.”