DUBAI – Designed to improve efficiency of airport operations and upgrade comfort and convenience for travelers, Tabanlioglu Architects of Istanbul recently launched their latest design project, Bodrum International Airport. A monumental contribution to urban aesthetic, the new 455,000 m2 facility includes state-of-the-art passenger facilities, security systems, retail areas, airline lounges, and glass-sided aerobridges linking passengers throughout the terminals. Completed in only 15 months and newly opened facility consists of two main structures, namely the "air side", a transparent glass and steel linear scaffold to which the planes connect and the "land side", that being the terminal building. Although terminal buildings are generic spaces and accepted to be the embodiment of globalization and super-modernity, Bodrum Airport aims to get rid of the pressure and monotony created by compulsory standards and becomes a special spot, not only for travel, but also significant to the region it connects. Composition of secondary elements and finishes create the atmosphere of holidays and soothe the passengers, whereas the primary elements have clear directions and a strong official organization proving easy circulation of passengers within the terminal. The sense of wealth created with minimum use of columns, high ceilings and optimum daylight received through sides and roof relieves the tension of journeys event at the most depressing straits such as the security search and passport checkpoints. Four terraces provide the opportunity to be at open air even after controlled entrance to the building. Accessing the terminal by the glass bridges, passengers pass over a green landscape arranged with banana and olive trees, daphnia and paper flower, all favorable for Bodrum climate. The suspended ceiling made up of lightweight aluminum rods facilitates the maintenance process of the mechanical systems behind it. The integrity and one-piece impression is enriched by the harmony of material, supported by opaque, screen printed or sheer glass and local natural stone on different directions of façades. Use of local black marble on the floors emphasizes the effect of continuity and depth in the terminal. – SG
