Blending biophilic design and sustainability, Terminal 2 sets a new benchmark for airports worldwide, reports SURFACES REPORTER (SR)
Kempegowda International Airport’s Terminal 2 in Bengaluru redefines the travel experience, merging nature and cutting-edge design into a tranquil, functional space. This architectural marvel offers passengers a serene journey through gardens, water features, and lush landscapes, challenging the conventional chaos associated with airports.
A Terminal in a Garden
Designed collaboratively by Grant Associates and designers Abu Jani/Sandeep Khosla, Terminal 2 covers an impressive 2.55 lakh square meters in its first phase, with an additional 4.41 lakh square meters planned. Built on four foundational pillars—technological leadership, environmental stewardship, biophilic innovation, and a celebration of Karnataka’s cultural heritage—the terminal seamlessly integrates form and function.
The biophilic design features native plants, reflective water elements, and landscaped gardens that create a calming environment for travelers. More than 7,700 trees and palms have been repurposed, and the planting strategy focuses on biodiversity and climate resilience, connecting travelers with Bengaluru’s rich natural heritage.
Sustainability in Action
Terminal 2 is a leader in sustainable infrastructure, featuring an advanced water management system, including rainwater harvesting ponds and swales. This system not only mitigates Bengaluru’s water challenges but also supports a resilient and biodiverse landscape. Solar panels and daylight harvesting help achieve an estimated 25% energy savings, while the gardens and forest belt reduce surrounding temperatures by 2-3 degrees, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly environment.
A Global Milestone
Beyond its biophilic and sustainable elements, Terminal 2 also pays tribute to Karnataka’s culture through art and design. Its holistic approach earned it the prestigious Prix Versailles Special Prize for Interior Design from UNESCO in 2023, cementing its reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful airports.
“Tiger Wings”: A Living Artwork
One of the terminal’s recent standout features is ‘Tiger Wings,’ a hydroponic green wall installation by renowned French botanist Patrick Blanc. Spanning 4,000 square feet and housing over 15,000 plants from 153 native species, this innovative vertical garden is a testament to the terminal’s commitment to biodiversity. Using soilless technology and plants sourced from Bengaluru’s nurseries and the Western Ghats, ‘Tiger Wings’ adds a unique artistic and ecological dimension to the terminal.
Recognition at the World Architecture Festival (WAF)
In a crowning achievement, Terminal 2 was named a category finalist in the prestigious 2024 World Architecture Festival (WAF) under the ‘Inside: Public Buildings’ category. Recognized for its innovative design and ability to transform airports into serene, nature-focused spaces, the terminal stood out among just ten global projects in its category.
Andrew Haines, Senior Associate at Grant Associates and project lead since 2016, reflected on this recognition, saying, “What a fantastic few days it was at the World Architecture Festival in Singapore. It was a real honor and privilege to present our work on Terminal 2… Collaboration has been essential to the success of the project since the outset: the client, design team, vendors, and contractors have all worked in partnership to make this ambitious vision a reality.”
Terminal 2’s inclusion at WAF solidifies its position as a groundbreaking project that blends sustainability, design, and cultural celebration, inspiring airports worldwide to rethink their approach to public infrastructure.