LA’s New Tom Bradley International Terminal is Inspired by Ocean Waves

The first phase of the new <a href="http://www.lawa.org/welcomeLAX.aspx" target="_blank">Tom Bradley International Terminal</a> at LAX was recently completed by <a href="http://www.fentressarchitects.com/portfolio/aviation/los-angeles/" target="_blank">Fentress Architects</a>. The new terminal will be open to the public for flights in August and will usher in a new era of travel and economic development for Los Angeles. Inspired by the Pacific Ocean and cresting waves, the dramatic arching roofline will become a recognizable landmark. The project is working towards LEED Silver certification and features daylighting, energy-efficient design, eco-friendly materials and more.

The Tom Bradley Terminal is the largest public works project in the history of Los Angeles and is a major improvement to airline travel for the busy hub.

The project features a grand 100-ft naturally daylit hall characterized by an arching, column free roofline. From the exterior, the profile is meant to resemble the form of crashing waves.

Designed to LEED Silver standards, the project includes a variety of strategies to reduce energy consumption and improve sustainability. During construction, 75% of the waste was diverted from the landfill and water use was reduced by 48%.

<a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/daylighting" target="_blank">Daylighting</a> strategies are enhanced with the use of a light-colored interior and clerestory windows to bring daylight into the heart of the building.

Meanwhile deep overhangs protect it from over heating and energy efficient mechanical systems reduce demand. Low flow fixtures and plumbing were installed throughout and the project also makes extensive use of LED lighting.

“The new Tom Bradley International Terminal is a new gateway for LA,” said <a href="http://www.fentressarchitects.com/people/innovative-team/executive-team/curtis-fentress/" target="_blank">Curtis W. Fentress</a>, FAIA, RIBA, Chairman, and Founder of Fentress Architects. “The architecture was inspired by the people and geography of LA, but the functionality was inspired by LA’s economic needs.”