June 2017

12 BUILD / June 2017 , With a new iconic entryway, improved wayfinding, and futuristic technology, Fentress has designed a new airport terminal that advances The Orlando Experience.” Speaking of his iconic aviation projects, Curtis goes on to tell us about one of Fentress’ biggest successes to date – the Denver International Airport project - which was internationally recognized and voted “Best Airport in North America” by Business Traveler Magazine readers for six consecutive years (2005 – 2010). “With a deadline of only three weeks to create the terminal’s conceptual design, Fentress Architects broke the mold of traditional airport architecture by ‘turning the building upside down,’” he elaborates. “The form evokes the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado’s international signature. Sustainably, the fabric roof provides considerable daylighting, and low heat absorption reduces build-up due to sunlight radiation. This project taught us that despite the constraints, thinking outside of the box challenges us to be inventive.” Recently, Fentress Architects was recognized as one of the Top 50 Architects worldwide, an accolade of which Curtis and his team and immensely proud. “We are honored to be recognized for our iconic and innovative designs,” he enthuses. “This award is unique from others we have received, because we are being recognized not only for the designs of our buildings, but also for the impact our designs have had on the community within the A/E/C industry.” Constant innovation to ensure iconic structures and continued success can be a challenge, but for Curtis it is simply second nature. “We are always looking for innovative solutions and embracing new technologies to enhance our buildings. For the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX, we wanted to leverage technology to create a futuristic space that would enhance the travel experience for travelers. Through the use of interactive screens in the Great Hall of the terminal, and updating materials and finishes throughout, Fentress created a modern and easy-to-navigate terminal.” Indeed, the next 12 months are looking extremely busy for the team at Fentress, particularly when it comes to aviation design, an industry which is ever- evolving. “Fentress is forward thinking when it comes to aviation design. With more travelers than ever before, airports around the world have had to update and rethink the way people interact with them. Technology is advancing such that check-in lines are shorter and airplanes can hold more passengers. We are looking for ways to ease the flow and for passengers by designing spaces that are open and easy to navigate, while also remaining functional and safe. “Fentress will continue to embrace new trends on all of our projects, and also encourage innovation in design through our Fentress Global Challenge competition. We encourage students from around the world to submit their designs for the Airport of the Future; the winner is given the opportunity to intern in our studio. The challenge represents the firm’s commitment to continuing the vision of that award—to further advance the pursuit of innovative design in public architecture.” “Some architects have a preconceived notion of what a building should be — they design from the outside like the building is a piece of sculpture. I prefer to patiently search through extensive discovery until I find a seam somewhere, crack it open and discover the art inside.”