Techo International Airport A Tree-Inspired Design By Foster + Partners

Foster + Partners is building the new Techo International Airport in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Additionally, the project is located 20 kilometers from the capital city and represents this region’s local architecture and culture. It also seeks to be appropriate in terms of design solutions for the tropical climate. After international competition, the project was handed over to Foster + Partners. It includes the master plan of a new airport city and a newly built terminal building.

Techo International Airport’s Design Concept

The Techo International Airport’s terminal building is characterized by two airfoil-shaped piers that converge at the central head house. The head house contains the security check, immigration offices, and retail elements for passengers. 36-meter roof canopy covers the terminal supported by ‘structural trees’ of steel. Natural light enters the terminal through a lightweight steel grid canopy on its roof. The design of the Techo International Airport would also endeavor to provide easy paths for its passengers with views on the apron, only level changes in public areas.

The interior of the Techo International Airport has a warm and cozy feel, reflecting the local Cambodian culture and style. The architects said that the project is designed to be one of the most eco-friendly airports in the world, using modern solutions and local skills to reduce operational costs. The design also has a lot of greenery, and an onsite solar farm powers the terminal.

The terminal of the Techo International Airport is located in a place that allows for future growth. The project uses a modular construction system and a phased project timeline to simplify the building process. The project’s first phase can handle up to 13 million passengers a year. The subsequent phases will add another airfoil wing, doubling the passenger capacity to 30 million.