Countries in which HOK has designed aviation + transportation projects over the past decade
Number of times HOK-designed terminals have been ranked #1 for passenger satisfaction
HOK Named One of TIME Magazine’s Most Influential Companies of 2022 for the design of LaGuardia Airport’s new Terminal B.
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Travelers pass through an HOKdesigned terminal each year
Airports are complex machines—and HOK is built to navigate them. We bring deep expertise in delivering high-performing, resilient terminals that reflect the identity of their communities.
Our designs balance functionality and beauty, withstand the test of time, and adapt to future needs. From concept through construction, we partner with clients to create some of the most
Carl Galioto, FAIA President | HOK
HOK’s Integrated Services Include:
ARCHITECTURE
MEP ENGINEERING
INTERIOR DESIGN
PLANNING + URBAN DESIGN
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
EXPERIENCE
DESIGN
LIGHTING DESIGN
CONSULTING
HOK STREAM: A FAST COMPANY “MOST INNOVATIVE” SELECTION
Developed by HOK’s engineering group, HOK STREAM is a parametric modeling and optimization tool that dramatically accelerates the design process for complex architecture projects like the terminal canopies at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
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HOK is the creative force behind the most awardwinning and highlyranked airports in the world.
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While each planning and design challenge is unique, HOK approaches each project with a core set of 3 GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Vision
Airports are much more than just regional gateways. They represent the values and aspirations of people who live, work and play in the community. Airports are where millions of travelers form their opinions on a region’s civic identity each year. HOK designs iconic airport buildings that represent this identity. With each project, we strive to give voice to the cultural richness and diversity of our communities—and the celebration of travel.
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User Experience
Planning, design and operation of airport facilities should be formulated around a more holistic concept of experience which encompasses not only passengers but employees, vendors and other guests. This includes careful consideration of how technology is integrated into the user experience through strategic touchpoints. We also synthesize the physical and sensory attributes of space (light, temperature and sound) with essential technology systems for each project. Additional opportunities for elevated experience may include strategic use of biophilia or indoor/outdoor space to allow cost-effective flexibility as an airport’s needs evolve.
Implementation
Well-developed planning and design concepts means no surprises during delivery. HOK approaches each design solution with an eye towards implementation. Careful consideration of potential delivery methods informs how each project is developed from day one. Opportunities for advanced delivery techniques, such as prefabricated components or modular construction, are investigated and vetted through a rigorous process of data driven inquiry. This allows for a more nuanced approach to phasing and dependency analysis during the planning and design process. The result is a design that maximizes the return on investment for clients.
The Power of Integrated Design
Hamad International Airport
Doha, Qatar
Voted World’s Best Airport in by Skytrax three times, Hamad International Airport showcases the full depth of HOK’s integrated architecture and engineering expertise. Designed and delivered as a unified team, the terminal reflects a seamless fusion of form and performance. Its sweeping, fluid silhouette evokes Qatar’s natural landscape— echoing waves, wind, and desert dunes to create a powerful and poetic gateway to the world.
5 STAR AIRPORT
SKYTRAX
AIRPORT IN THE WORLD
SKYTRAX 2021, 2022, 2024
Innovation that Moves Airports Forward
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport
Dallas, Texas
Progress in Motion. In one of the boldest engineering efforts ever attempted on an active airfield, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and HOK marked a major milestone in the $3 billion Terminal C Expansion. Six prefabricated megastructure modules—some spanning over 200 feet and weighing 1,200 tons—were transported across closed runways overnight using self-propelled modular transporters.
This modular approach redefines how airports can build: faster, safer, and with less disruption. Designed to add 9 new gates, the modules were fully constructed offsite, complete with MEP systems, glazing, and finishes. The precision move was a feat of structural coordination and program innovation—highlighting how HOK is helping DFW reshape the future of air travel.
Projects that Stand the Test of Time
Indianapolis International Airport Indianapolis, Indiana
Our track record speaks for itself. For the tenth year in a row, the HOK-designed Indianapolis International Airport has been awarded the Airports Council International’s Airport Service Quality Award for Best Airport in North America –making it the only airport in the United States to win the honor for a straight decade.
BEST AIRPORT IN NORTH AMERICA
Unparalled Aviation Experience
LAGUARDIA AIRPORT TERMINAL B QUEENS, NEW YORK
The airports we’ve designed are recognized as some of the world’s best for efficiency, beauty, engineering, sustainability and—the most important touchstone of all—passenger experience.
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS
KEMPEGOWDA
Awards & Recognition
Our success is shared with our clients and partners.
Best U.S. Airport, Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award 2017 HAMAD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
INDIANAPOLIS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
A+ Awards - Popular Choice WinnerTransportation (Airport), Architizer
Best Airport (30–40 million PAX/year), Skytrax World Airports Awards
CHUBU CENTRAIR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Best Airport (10–20 million PAX/year), Skytrax World Airports Awards
SEATTLE-TACOMA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, CONCOURSE D ANNEX
Engineering Excellence Award, ASCE
Best Project - Airport / Transit, ENR Northwest Best Projects
HARSTFIELD-JACKSON ATLANTA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT DOMESTIC TERMINAL IMPROVEMENTS
Excellence in Structural Engineering Award, National Council of Structural Engineers Associations
HAMAD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Best Airport (30–40 million PAX/year), Skytrax World Airports Awards
Best Airport in Middle East, Skytrax World Airports Awards
Best Airport (10–20 million PAX/year), Skytrax World Airports Awards 2019
CHUBU CENTRAIR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
HARSTFIELD-JACKSON ATLANTA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT DOMESTIC TERMINAL IMPROVEMENTS
Best Project - Airport, ENR Southeast Best Projects
SEATTLE-TACOMA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CONCOURSE D ANNEX
Editor’s Pick - Public, The Architect’s Newspaper
INDIANAPOLIS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
World’s Best Awards - Top Domestic Airport, Travel + Leisure
HAMAD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
World’s Best Awards - #2 International Airport, Travel + Leisure
SALT LAKE CITY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TERMINAL REDEVELOPMENT
Excellence Awards - Transformative Development of the Year, CCIM - Utah Chapter
Best Airport / Transit Project of the Year, ENR Mountain States Best Projects
LAGUARDIA AIRPORT TERMINAL B
MASterworks Award - Best New Infrastructure, Municipal Art Society of New York
World Award - Best Airport, Prix Versailles
HAMAD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
World’s Best Airport, Skytrax World Airport Awards
LAGUARDIA AIRPORT TERMINAL B
Recognition of Special Achievement Award, National Academy of Construction
TIME 100 Most Influential Companies, TIME Magazine
DBIA National Award — Merit, Aviation, DBIA
Urban Land Institute New YorkExcellence in Civic Development Award
Fast Company’s Most Innovative Travel Companies - HOK
HARTSFIELD-JACKSON ATLANTA
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CANOPY AND MODERNIZATION PROGRAM
AIA ASPIRE - Design Award –Renovation/Restoration/Adaptive Reuse
AIA Georgia - Design Award –Renovation/Restoration/Adaptive Reuse
CHICAGO O’HARE
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TERMINAL 5 EAST EXTENSION
AIA Illinois - Capitol Award
LAGUARDIA AIRPORT TERMINAL B
Rick Hansen Foundation | Aviation Pros - Gold Certification
INDIANAPOLIS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
ACI Best Airport in North America
CHICAGO O’HARE
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TERMINAL 5 EAST EXTENSION
Best of Year Winner for Domestic Transportation, Interior Design
LED Interior Lighting DesignInternational Assoc. of Lighting Design
LAGUARDIA AIRPORT TERMINAL B
Best of Year, Arhcitect’s Newspaper
5 Star Terminal, Skytrax
Grand Award, ACEC EEA
SUVARNABHUMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT MIDFIELD SATELLITE CONCOURSE
World’s Most Beautiful Airport, Prix Versailles
LaGuardia Airport New Terminal B
New York, New York
LaGuardia Airport’s new Terminal B symbolizes the top-to-bottom transformation of one of the nation’s highestprofile airports.
WIRED MAGAZINE: LGA TERMINAL B DESIGN PROCESS VIDEO
Scan the QR code below to watch Peter Ruggiero explain how he developed HOK’s design for the new Terminal B at LaGuardia Airport.
5 STAR TERMINAL
SKYTRAX WORLD’S BEST NEW TERMINAL SKYTRAX
1.3 million sq. ft. / 120,775 sq. m
GATES
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AWARDS
Skytrax World Airports Awards –World’s Best New Airport
Prix Versailles World Title – Airports
Urban Land Institute New York –Excellence in Civic Development Award
AIA New York State – Honor Award for Commercial/Industrial, Large Projects
TIME Magazine’s Most Influential Companies
NCSEA Excellence in Structural Engineering Award – Pedestrian Bridge B
National Academy of Construction –Recognition of Special Achievement Award
Municipal Art Society of New York MASterworks Award – Best New Infrastructure
Fast Company’s Most Innovative Travel Companies
ENR New York Best Airport/Transit and Project of the Year Finalist
DBIA National Award — Merit, Aviation
SERVICES
Architecture Engineering
Interiors
Planning + Urban Design
Sustainable Design
The new Terminal B celebrates arrivals and departures with equal emphasis, challenging the industry practice of reserving the most monumental spaces for departures while relegating arrivals to low-ceilinged, basement-like zones.
HOK had a bold vision of creating two island concourses accessed from the main terminal through two 450-footlong, 65-foot-high pedestrian bridges. This solution enabled contractors to build the new terminal over the existing structure, which shaved almost two years off the construction schedule, decreased operational disruptions and saved millions of dollars.
The new headhouse communicates New York City’s vibrancy, material sensibility and cultural diversity. Incoming and outgoing passengers share soaring, grand-scaled sequences punctuated by 60-foot-high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the space with daylight.
“The architectural design of the new Terminal B is second to none.
-STEWART STEEVES, CEO OF LAGUARDIA GATEWAY PARTNERS
Salt Lake City International Airport Passenger Terminal
Salt Lake City’s new $4.1 billion airport is the largest public works project in Utah’s history and the first new U.S. hub airport in the 21st century.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Structural Engineers
Association of Northern California – Award of Excellence
ENR Mountain States Best Airport/Transit and Project of the Year
After two decades of planning and six years of construction, the new Salt Lake City International Airport opened in 2020 to replace three aging, 1950s and 1960s terminals and concourses with a state-of-theart, $4.1 billion facility on the same site. It’s the largest public works project in Utah’s history and the first new U.S. hub airport in the 21st century.
The first phase includes a new 909,000-sq.-ft. central terminal building and the west portions of two linear concourses—the 3,700-foot-long Concourse A and the 3,400-foot-long Concourse B— with a total of 45 new gates. A nearly 1,000-foot-long passenger tunnel links the concourses.
“[We’re]
changing the entire physical model of the airport. The new terminal is so much more efficient for aircraft and passengers…it’s just a stunningly beautiful and functional facility.”
-BILL WYATT, SLC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport Concourse D Annex
Seattle, Washington
Built to relieve passenger congestion, the Annex acts as a conduit between the airport’s main passenger terminal and a hardstand on the tarmac. It includes six passenger gates, concession stands and a children’s play area.
The elegant form of this two-story Annex to Concourse D at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport evokes the joy of flight and natural splendor of the Pacific Northwest.
The Annex is prominently featured along Departures Drive adjacent to the main terminal and is connected to the existing Concourse D via a skybridge at the mezzanine level. The building’s simple shape conveys the dynamic nature of air travel.
The design creates an expressed structure and calming, sleek, daylit pavilion for travelers and airport staff. The two-story, column-free interior space brings a sense of openness and ease through its light color palette, sustainable finishes and clear circulation. The open plan contributes to clear paths of travel, intuitive wayfinding and free-flow circulation.
The building’s skin is a balance of glass and metal that maximizes interior natural light while minimizing glare, heat gain and energy loss. The Annex is the first airport terminal building in the U.S. to achieve Silver certification through the USGBC’s LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction.
An integrated design-build team including the Port of Seattle, HOK and The Walsh Group developed the Annex within a tight budget and in just 18 months.
Hamad International Airport Passenger Terminal Complex
The airport was voted the world’s best in the 2021 Skytrax World Airport Awards. The awards are regarded as a quality benchmark for the entire airport industry.
Doha, Qatar
HOK’s design of the passenger terminal complex at Doha’s airport celebrates form, light and materiality while providing a highly efficient and inspirational travel experience.
While contemporary in design, the airport pays homage to the nation’s rich cultural heritage and natural environment. The dramatic, curving building silhouette recalls ocean waves and sand dunes to project a powerful image as Qatar’s gateway to the world.
Departing passengers experience an undulating super roof in the light-filled departure hall. The steel-framed glass wall provides unobstructed views from the curbside arrival area through the ticketing hall, enabling passengers to easily find their destinations.
“Doha’s International Airport is arguably the most architecturally significant terminal complex in the world, as well as being the most luxurious.”
-WALLPAPER MAGAZINE
Long Beach Airport Modernization
Long Beach, California
Inspired by the sunny skies and laidback vibe of Long Beach, HOK’s design for modernizing this historic airport and local landmark blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors. A new concourse takes advantage of the pleasant Southern California climate with palm tree-lined courtyards, lush gardens, shaded wooden boardwalks and even a fire pit.
A new concourse takes advantage of the pleasant Southern California climate with palm tree-lined courtyards, lush gardens, shaded wooden boardwalks and even a fire pit.
Improvements to the 1941 terminal building and the concourse—including gate-side boarding lounges, concessions, a security building, a central plaza and landscaped courtyards—enhance the airport’s functionality while making the travel experience easier and more enjoyable.
The design preserves the original Art Deco terminal as an important part of airport operations, with new structures appropriately scaled behind it. The landmark structure remains the visual link between the landside and airside while serving as the main circulation pathway for departing passengers. A symmetrical airside garden area connects the north and south hold room buildings.
In naming the Long Beach Airport one of the world’s 10 most beautiful, architecture critic Jonathan Glancey wrote that HOK brings the “muchloved regional airport up to date without it losing its Bogart-Bacall-era Hollywood charm.”
Chicago O’Hare International Airport Terminal 5 Expansion
Chicago, Illinois
This is the terminal’s first major expansion since it opened in 1993 and will allow O’Hare to comfortably welcome an increasing number of travelers. It will increase the terminal’s capacity by 25 percent, adding new gates and upgrading existing gate sizes to accommodate larger aircraft used for international flights.
HOK and Muller & Muller, Ltd., along with the Chicago Department of Aviation, led the design of more than 300,000 square feet of new space in Terminal 5.
The L-shaped addition incorporates nine new wide-body aircraft gates and relocates and reconfigures three existing gates. All the gates will accommodate next-generation aircraft and be easily convertible to narrow-body positions as the terminal is repurposed in the future.
With sustainable design features including high-performance glass, a circadian lighting system and healthy, durable materials, the team is aiming for LEED Silver certification.
Opening up Terminal 5 to amenities provided in other areas of O’Hare, improving airline clubs, enhancing shopping and dining space, and designing a clear wayfinding system will create a more comfortable experience for passengers. The project also is adding four new security lanes to the checkpoint and improving immigration facilities. The 25-year-old baggage handling system will be fully modernized by 2023.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Canopy and Modernization Program
Atlanta, Georgia
A 20-year expansion and modernization program is underway to enhance the passenger experience and meet the evolving needs of the busiest airport in the United States.
60,000 sq. ft. / 5,575 sq. m
AWARDS
NCSEA Excellence in Structural Engineering Award
ENR Southeast Best Projects – Airport
AISC Innovative Design in Engineering and Architecture with Structural Steel (IDEAS²) Award
SERVICES Architecture
Engineering Interiors
Lighting Design
Sustainable Design
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport challenged the team to elevate the passenger experience by giving its domestic terminal the look and feel of a new building.
The design outfitted the terminal with two soaring structural steel canopies with translucent ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) fabric pillows. The canopies have become icons for the city. Visible from air and land, the twin structures each measure 864 feet by 200 feet and cover eight lanes of traffic at passenger drop-off and pick-up areas. The canopies provide a welcoming ‘front door’ that protects travelers, the roadway and the building facade from Atlanta’s everchanging weather.
HOK’s architects and engineers developed a parametric modeling and optimization tool called HOK STREAM to accelerate the design process and inform the construction approach. Using STREAM shaved weeks off the design process and led the integrated team to an innovative, ultra-efficient solution. Cladding the canopies with ETFE instead of traditional glazing cut their weight by half. STREAM models shared with the team enabled carefully orchestrated construction phasing that allowed the terminal to operate with minimal disruption.
“Passengers enjoy protection from the elements and comment daily on the beauty of the structure. These canopies will truly become iconic architectural landmarks for the city of Atlanta.”
-JOHN SELDEN, FORMER GENERAL MANAGER OF ATL
Will Rogers World Airport Terminal Expansion
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
New gates, security checkpoints, retail, food and beverage options and more elevate the traveler experience while allowing Oklahoma City’s airport to expand its capacity for airlines.
HOK and local architect FSB designed a terminal expansion that meets the needs of modern travelers while accommodating Will Rogers World Airport’s need to grow. The expansion has elevated the airport and Oklahoma City while greatly improving the overall travel experience.
The first phase of the project includes four new gates on a new east concourse. Three are leased to Delta Air Lines, with the fourth gate capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft and built with a customs area underneath so it can accept international flights. Our flexible design planned for an additional six gates to be added in the future.
A new eight-lane consolidated security checkpoint provides a streamlined entrance to the gate area, with the existing screening areas transformed into large meeter/greeter lobbies.
A public observation deck suspended above the concourse features lounge space and unique views of the terminal and airfield. Below this observation deck, local artist Matt Goad designed “OKConnected,” a mosaic in the terrazzo floor that guides travelers through the space while highlighting Oklahoma City’s history, culture and people.
Tampa International Airport Main Terminal Redevelopment
Tampa, Florida
The project adds 60,000 square feet of usable space—enough to comfortably fit a football field— to the terminal’s third-floor transfer level.
The HOK and Skanska designbuild team redeveloped the main passenger terminal and expanded the concessions program at Tampa International Airport as part of a modernization to the 1970s-era facility.
The project adds 60,000 square feet of usable space—enough to comfortably fit a football field—to the terminal’s third-floor transfer level. It also adds 38,000 square feet of enclosed areas and 65 new concessions spaces. Four new outdoor terraces provide places for passengers to relax and enjoy the breezes and sunset views of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Airside improvements for all gate lounges include power poles, new seating options, recycle units and integrated concessions.
Sustainable design strategies are projected to make the expansion 30 percent more energy efficient than required by current energy standards.
San Francisco International Airport Courtyard 3
Connector
San Francisco, California
This new six-story office building and pre- and post- security connector links Terminals 2 and 3 at San Francisco International Airport, enhancing the experiences of travelers and employees.
The office building brings together airport executives previously located in multiple areas, allowing SFO to lease those vacated spaces to tenants. The office building also includes an integrated operations center and flexible lounge space that will be modified into office space and leased to airlines in the future. SFO’s executive staff occupy the top two floors, with an outdoor view deck overlooking nearby runways.
The flexible design allows for the future addition of a moving walkway and rightof-way for a potential baggage handling service connection between Terminals 2 and 3. The office building design includes potential space for a future lounge on the third level.
The Courtyard 3 Connector is net zero ready and on track to achieve LEED Gold certification. Dynamic glazing on the facade decreases glare and heat inside the building while lowering its energy consumption. Green walls and plants in the office space support connections to nature. The office component is WELL pre-certified and is on track to achieve WELL certification.
The Progressive Design-Build delivery method included HOK as the design architect and architect of record in a joint venture with MEI Architects and Hensel Phelps as the general contractor.
ON THE BOARDS
SeattleTacoma Intl. Airport North Main Terminal Modernization
Seattle, Washington
The SEA Gateway Project, a transformation of a key part of the terminal at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, aims to accommodate increased passenger demand while elevating the travel experience at this Pacific Northwest hub.
ON THE BOARDS
Monterey Regional Airport
Monterey, California
HOK’s design for Monterey Regional Airport introduces a nature-inspired terminal with a pre-security garden plaza and the airport’s first passenger boarding bridges, enhancing accessibility and reflecting the region’s scenic beauty.
ON THE BOARDS
Mobile New Downtown Airport
Mobile, Alabama
HOK is designing a new terminal for Mobile International Airport, relocating commercial air service downtown to improve access and support regional growth. The lightfilled, five-gate terminal is designed for future expansion to 12 gates and features streamlined passenger flow and native landscaping—all in collaboration with design partner FSB.
ON THE BOARDS
George Bush Airport FIS Renovation and Expansion
Houston, Texas
For an airport handling over 45 million pax annually, this new International Terminal will make a lasting visual, physical, and convenient impression in a city where 145 languages are spoken.
KAVEN SWAN
Sr. Principal | Director of Aviation + Transportation
kaven.swan@hok.com | +1 314 239 7198
MATT NEEDHAM
Sr. Principal | Director of Aviation + Transportation
matt.needham@hok.com | +1 415 356 8556
PAUL AUGUSTE
Sr. Principal | Director of Aviation + Transportation
