Florianópolis International Airport | Biselli Katchborian Barquisimeto
Florianópolis International Airport
Florianópolis International Airport underwent a privatization process in 2017. As required by the current operator, a terminal with two operational levels (boarding and landing) and ten boarding bridges was designed. This new structure was installed to the south of the main runway – in a territory with no previous occupation – in order to allow the existing terminal, on the opposite side of the complex, to be deactivated. To enable its implementation, new accesses from the city and new parking areas were built, as well as new taxiways and a new apron area/ramp.
The program was then organized into two blocks making up a “T” shaped terminal. The processor block upholds the administrative areas and the landing and boarding lobbies – this last one with double height, without the intervention of pillars and with an inclined wall lined with freijó wood. The shape of this wall allows the passage of air conditioning pipes without disturbing the integrity of the lobby space. A large steel structure roof with a design inspired by aeronautical geometry gives this block its uniqueness. Zenith openings designed from subtractions and folds in the roof plane allow the entry of natural light. Its features were strategically positioned over the check-in counters and over the garden with native species of vegetation. The garden mediates the boarding curb – protected from the weather by the 17.5m overhang – to the interior of the processor. A vast plane of glass crosses this vegetation area and allows the Santa Catarina landscape to enter the terminal.
The connector block contains the departure lounges and baggage claim belts. The block is a long rectangular prism covered with corrugated metal sheets. The ten boarding bridges give rhythm to its predominantly horizontal facade. Glazed planes facing the runway enable passengers to watch take-offs and landings protected from the sun by an overhang that extends itself towards the airport ramp.
Project Info:
Architects: Biselli Katchborian Barquisimeto
Location: Florianópolis, Brazil
Project Year: 2018
Photographs: Nelson Kon
Manufacturers: AutoDesk, Hunter Douglas Architectural (Europe), Abet Laminati, Guardian Glass, Ambi Brasil, Amkel, Armstrong, Arteira, Controller, Hunter Douglas, IDEA, Medabil, Prodac, Temom, Tempermax, Trimble











































Tags: 2018AirportBiselli Katchborian BarquisimetoBrazilFlorianópolisFlorianópolis International AirportNelson KonTerminal
Madeline Brooks is a Projects Editor at Arch2O, where she has been shaping and refining architectural content since March 2024. With over a decade of experience in editorial work, she has curated, revised, and published an array of projects covering architecture, urbanism, and public space design. A graduate of the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, Madeline brings a strong academic foundation and a discerning editorial eye to each piece she oversees. Since joining Arch2O, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the platform’s editorial direction, with a focus on sustainability, social relevance, and cutting-edge design. Madeline excels at translating complex architectural ideas into clear, engaging stories that resonate with both industry professionals and general readers. She works closely with architects, designers, and global contributors to ensure every project is presented with clarity, depth, and compelling visual narrative. Her editorial leadership continues to elevate Arch2O’s role in global architectural dialogue.




