Sacramento’s nickname is the City of Trees and the design for the airport was directly inspired by the canopy affect of the tree-lined streets. The terminal is a reinterpretation of those shady streets featuring tall structural posts and a canopy of beams that let filtered light stream in from above. Three-story glass curtain walls with louvered shades further pull in natural daylighting without taking on too much solar heat. The new Central Terminal B consists of a 425,000 sq. ft. landside terminal supported by a 315,000 sq. ft. airside concourse building, which are connected by an automated people mover (APM) system. The $1.04 billion terminal redevelopment project replaces the outdated 1967 passenger terminal building and increases the traveler capacity.

With 19 gates, the aircourse has been designed to achieve LEED Silver certification and includes a number of strategies to minimize its impact. First, low-e glazing, enhanced daylighting, solar shading and natural ventilation via stack effect all help to take advantage of free heat, cooling and lighting. Then energy efficient lighting, building automation and high performance mechanical systems minimize energy use. A number of recycled materials were used including structural steel and concrete, terrazzo flooring with high recycled content, reclaimed old-growth redwood as well as certified wood and low VOC content materials. Formerly developed areas were reclaimed with native vegetation and water efficient irrigation minimizes potable water usage. The new airport also features increased access to public transportation, enhanced building commissioning, green housekeeping, and a recycling program. As one of the newest terminal development projects in the country, Central Terminal B shows what is possible in terms of sustainable design.

+ Corgan Associates, Inc.

+ Fentress Architects

Images © Corgan Associates, Inc.

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