Austin is preparing for a transportation milestone with its first light rail system. The city has selected AECOM, in collaboration with Fluor and HDR, to lead the project. This team brings extensive experience in rail infrastructure and urban development. Their goal? To create a system that eases congestion, enhances connectivity, and supports sustainable growth in one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities.
Photo source: ATP
AECOM and partners at the helm
Global infrastructure leader AECOM is managing the light rail’s design and construction in partnership with Fluor and HDR to blend functionality with forward-thinking design. Fluor contributes expertise in complex transportation projects, while HDR adds advanced rail engineering capabilities. Together, they are tasked with delivering a project that balances efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Key project details
The light rail system will feature a 9.8-mile route connecting essential areas like downtown Austin, the airport, and residential neighborhoods. This connectivity will benefit commuters and businesses alike. Additionally, the team plans to incorporate sustainability features, such as energy-efficient technology and eco-conscious construction practices.
This project is part of Project Connect, Austin’s broader plan to transform its public transit system. The light rail is expected to significantly reduce traffic, provide a reliable alternative to driving, and support urban growth.
Photo source: ATP
Why this is important
As Austin grows, so does the need for efficient public transit. The light rail will alleviate traffic issues and foster economic development. Local businesses will likely see increased foot traffic, and residents will enjoy improved access to jobs, schools, and services. The project reflects the city’s commitment to building a more accessible and sustainable future.
The road ahead
The project is still in its early stages, with community engagement and design refinements ongoing. Construction timelines are expected to be finalized soon, giving residents a clearer picture of when they can expect the system to be operational.
Austin’s first light rail system is a significant step toward modernizing its infrastructure. AECOM and its partners are well-positioned to deliver a project that meets the city’s needs while paving the way for future transit improvements.
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Canada’s first zero-carbon aquatic centre is a groundbreaking step forward in sustainable design, blending environmental innovation with community wellness. Located in New Westminster, British Columbia, the cutting-edge təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community centre, designed by HCMA, minimizes carbon emissions while providing residents with a state-of-the-art space for recreation and health.
The təməsew̓txʷ (Sea Otter House) Aquatic and Community centre is seamlessly integrated into its natural surroundings and features an iconic, unifying roof. Created by HCMA Architecture + Design, the centre is built to accommodate individuals of all ages and abilities, offering spaces that reflect the evolving ways communities engage in recreation. Its design prioritizes fostering social connections and wellness-focused activities alongside traditional sports and fitness programs.
With a construction cost of CAD 114 million and spanning 10,684 square meters, this combined aquatic and community centre is the first in Canada to meet the Canada Green Building Council’s Zero Carbon Building-Design Standard while being fully electric.
This pioneering aquatic centre achieves zero-carbon status through innovative energy systems, including solar panels, efficient heat recovery, and passive design strategies that reduce energy consumption. It’s more than a pool—it’s a blueprint for how public spaces can meet the challenges of climate change. This marks a significant achievement for a building type that has historically been a major source of greenhouse gas emissions for municipalities. Additionally, the facility is a pioneer in using a gravity-fed filtration system, which significantly reduces chlorine dependency and minimizes the creation of harmful byproducts, enhancing air and water quality.
Inside, the facility offers various amenities catering to all age groups and abilities. From accessible pools and fitness spaces to multipurpose community rooms, the design ensures inclusivity while fostering social connections. Beyond its environmental impact, the aquatic centre exemplifies how infrastructure can unite people while prioritizing the planet.
As the first of its kind in Canada, this zero-carbon aquatic centre is setting a precedent for municipalities nationwide. It serves as both a recreational hub and an inspiration for sustainable public building projects, paving the way for a greener future.
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Mass timber is transforming how we think about architecture, combining sustainability with stunning design. From Vancouver’s record-breaking tallest timber building to Portland’s breathtaking PDX Airport terminal roof and Quebec’s Nordic-style chalet, this versatile material redefines what’s possible in construction. Across North America, architects use mass timber to create strong, sustainable, and visually striking structures that set a new standard for innovation.
Quick looks
Mass timber is revolutionizing North American architecture, blending sustainability, strength, and striking design in projects.
As a renewable, carbon-storing resource, mass timber is an eco-friendly alternative to steel and concrete, reducing construction’s environmental impact.
Mass timber showcases versatility across functional and aesthetic design, from airport terminal roofs and civic pavilions to academic buildings and Nordic-style chalets.
Prefabricated panels, combined with natural warmth and durability, make mass timber an efficient choice for building greener, smarter structures.
The rise of mass timber
Mass timber is a modern construction material made by layering and compressing wood for exceptional strength and durability. Unlike traditional wood framing, mass timber can handle the load-bearing demands of large-scale projects, making it a game-changer in architecture. Its growing popularity stems from a unique blend of sustainability, versatility, and beauty.
Sustainability is one of mass timber’s biggest draws. As a renewable resource, wood absorbs and stores carbon throughout its lifecycle, making it a greener alternative to steel or concrete. When responsibly sourced, it helps reduce a building’s overall carbon footprint and supports efforts to combat climate change.
Mass timber’s aesthetic appeal is undeniable. Its natural warmth and grain create a biophilic connection that brings the outdoors in, offering a more inviting and calming atmosphere. Architects love its flexibility for creating striking, open designs, whether it’s the Nordic-inspired chalet in Quebec or the massive timber roof of Portland’s PDX Airport terminal.
Despite its lightweight nature, mass timber is incredibly strong, rivaling traditional materials in structural performance. This balance of strength and flexibility has enabled projects like Vancouver’s towering timber high-rise and Milwaukee’s Ascent building to push boundaries in construction.
Beyond its beauty and strength, mass timber contributes to more efficient building processes. Prefabricated panels simplify assembly, cutting down on construction time and waste. Together, these benefits position mass timber as a forward-thinking solution for creating greener, smarter buildings across North America.
6 must-see mass timber projects across North America
Type of Building: Mixed-use residential and academic spaces
Brock Commons Tallwood House at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver is a landmark in mass timber construction. At 18 stories, it was one of the first tall wood hybrid buildings of its kind, combining cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels with a concrete core. The project highlights mass timber’s potential for reducing construction times and carbon emissions while maintaining structural integrity. Designed for mixed-use purposes, including residential and academic spaces, Brock Commons Tallwood House showcases the future of sustainable, large-scale urban development.
Limberlost Place is a groundbreaking 10-story mass timber academic building at George Brown College in Toronto. It is one of Ontario’s first tall, net-zero carbon wood structures. Designed by Moriyama & Teshima Architects in collaboration with Acton Ostry Architects, it demonstrates how mass timber can combine sustainability, innovation, and aesthetics.
The building incorporates CLT and glulam (glued laminated timber) beams, reducing its environmental impact while creating a striking architectural presence. Limberlost Place models future academic and institutional structures, blending energy efficiency, durability, and biophilic design to inspire the next generation of students.
The Portland International Airport (PDX) terminal expansion features an awe-inspiring mass timber roof that spans approximately 400,000 square feet. Designed by ZGF Architects, the roof is constructed from regionally sourced Douglas Fir and showcases over 3.3 million board feet of mass timber from Pacific Northwest forests.
This design incorporates more than 400 glulam (glued-laminated) arches that extend up to 80 feet, paired with a lattice of Douglas Fir inspired by traditional regional weaving patterns. The roof provides structural support and creates a warm, biophilic atmosphere for travelers, reflecting Oregon’s natural beauty.
What sets this project apart is its use of prefabricated modules, which were assembled off-site and transported to the terminal for efficient installation. This innovative approach minimized disruption to airport operations while ensuring precision and sustainability.
This elegant Nordic-style chalet designed by Lemay in Quebec exemplifies how mass timber can blend modernity with nature. The structure’s timber frame harmonizes with its surroundings, while its efficient construction reduces environmental impact. Its minimalist design and biophilic elements make it a standout in residential architecture.
Ascent in Milwaukee is a record-breaking mass timber high-rise that stands 25 stories and 284 feet tall. Designed by Korb + Associates Architects, the building combines CLT floors with a hybrid concrete core, reducing its carbon footprint while maintaining strength and durability. This residential high-rise has set a global benchmark for sustainable urban living and innovation in high-rise construction.
A proposed 55-story skyscraper in Milwaukee by Michael Green Architecture will push the boundaries of mass timber construction. If completed, it will become one of the world’s tallest timber buildings, demonstrating the scalability of this sustainable material. The high-rise will use advanced CLT technology and innovative engineering techniques to ensure durability and safety at such heights.
The project emphasizes sustainability and integrates eco-friendly features such as energy-efficient systems and a reduced carbon footprint compared to traditional skyscrapers. With its innovative design, this skyscraper aims to redefine urban architecture and serve as a benchmark for future timber high-rises globally.
Bottom line
Mass timber is more than just a building material—it’s a movement reshaping the future of architecture and construction. From the record-breaking heights of Milwaukee’s proposed wunder-skyscraper to the sustainable elegance of Quebec’s Nordic-style chalet, these projects highlight this innovative material’s incredible versatility, beauty, and eco-conscious benefits.
As architects and builders continue to push the boundaries of mass timber’s capabilities, it’s clear that this approach is paving the way for greener, more sustainable cities and communities. By reducing carbon footprints while creating stunning, functional spaces, mass timber sets a new standard for construction that’s as environmentally friendly as it is visually inspiring.
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Turner Construction and its partners celebrated the completion of the $345 million 222 North project in San Marcos, California. This milestone marks significant progress in a large-scale mixed-use development set to transform the area. Once complete, the project will include residential units, retail spaces, and community amenities to support San Marcos’s growing population and infrastructure needs.
North City development. Photo source: Sea Breeze Properties.
The project, located near the SPRINTER rail line and City Hall, spans over 600,000 square feet and consists of four interconnected buildings. It will feature 330 residential units, approximately 20,000 square feet of retail space, and 13,000 square feet of office space. Community-focused amenities include a public plaza, parking facilities, and pedestrian-friendly pathways. By combining retail, office, and residential spaces in one development, the 222 North project aims to create a vibrant, walkable environment for locals.
Turner Construction worked closely with developers Sea Breeze Properties and designers at Architects Orange to bring this project to life. The construction process emphasized energy-efficient design and sustainable materials to reduce the project’s environmental impact. With the structural framework now complete, the team will focus on interior finishes, landscaping, and infrastructure details as the project heads toward completion.
A unique feature of 222 North is its commitment to seamlessly integrating public and private spaces. The development’s centerpiece is a community plaza that will serve as a hub for events, gatherings, and everyday socializing. Retail tenants, including restaurants and specialty shops, are expected to energize the space further by attracting foot traffic and creating a lively atmosphere.
North City development. Photo source: Sea Breeze Properties.
This mixed-use project represents a significant investment in San Marcos’s downtown core, supporting economic growth and revitalizing the area. During construction, 222 North created hundreds of jobs and is expected to sustain long-term economic activity once operational.
Turner Construction’s reputation for efficiently handling large-scale projects played a key role in meeting the structural milestone on time. The topping-out event, held on the project’s site, brought together the project’s stakeholders, construction teams, and local leaders to celebrate this achievement. As one of the largest recent developments in San Marcos, 222 North is anticipated to set a new standard for mixed-use construction in the region.
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Haydon Building Corp has officially started construction on Verrado Marketplace, a $275 million retail and entertainment hub in Buckeye, Arizona. Spanning 500,000 square feet, the project is designed to bring a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options to the fast-growing Verrado community. Located at the intersection of Verrado Way and Interstate 10, the development aims to serve as a central gathering space for residents and visitors alike. Notable features of the project include a dine-in Harkins movie theater, various restaurant concepts, and a range of specialty retailers.
Image source: Vestar
The project aligns with Buckeye’s rapid population growth and the increasing demand for amenities. Verrado Marketplace will house over 50 tenants, ranging from major national brands to local businesses, creating a balanced mix of offerings. The project is spearheaded by Vestar, a developer with a reputation for crafting large-scale, community-focused retail spaces. The company envisions the marketplace as a vibrant destination for shopping and social interaction.
The development will include pedestrian-friendly walkways and gathering spaces in addition to its retail and dining elements, promoting a connected, walkable environment. The architecture blends modern design with functional layouts, creating an inviting atmosphere for families, professionals, and visitors. The construction process will also emphasize sustainability, with energy-efficient systems and materials planned throughout the project.
Image source: Vestar
Verrado Marketplace is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the area, including an estimated 2,000 construction jobs and hundreds of permanent roles once the development opens. With an anticipated completion date in 2025, the project is poised to become a focal point for the community and a major draw for visitors from neighboring areas.
Haydon Building Corp, known for its expertise in large-scale commercial projects, has partnered with a team of architects and planners to bring the vision for Verrado Marketplace to life. The groundbreaking ceremony reflects the beginning of an exciting chapter for the Buckeye region, which is positioning itself as a hub of economic and cultural activity in the Phoenix metro area.
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In a recent press conference, New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced two Project Labor Agreements (PLAs), one with the Building & Construction Trades Council of Greater New York (BCTC). Over the agreement term, the PLAs will cover over $1 billion in construction projects, including generational infrastructure improvements in Willets Point.
Thanks to these PLAs, New York City can complete capital projects more efficiently and allow more underserved New Yorkers to better access apprenticeship and union career opportunities through community hiring. This will also strengthen the city’s commitment to supporting minority- and women-owned businesses (M/WBEs). Construction projects include repairing the city’s roads, bridges, and sewers and revitalizing green infrastructure.
Mayor Eric Adams also states that the New York City Economic Development Coordination (NCEDC) has signed off on a letter of intent to negotiate additional PLAs in good faith for the Kingsbridge Armory developments, the Hunts Point Produce Market, and the Science Park and Research Campus Kips Bay projects, totaling $1.88 billion in project work.
“We’re not stopping at just $1 billion. These agreements give us a framework for future agreements covering another $50 billion in projects,” Adams said. “That means tens of thousands of good-paying jobs for our union brothers and sisters and hundreds of projects delivered on time and on budget for New Yorkers. My thanks to Gary LaBarbera, BCTC, and the hard-working New Yorkers who put their blood, sweat, and tears into building a better city for all.”
These PLAs will also create the framework for future negotiations with the BCTC regarding projects that could cover as much as $50 billion in capital construction. They will apply to new construction, design-build projects, and renovations of city-owned structures. As of now, the BCTC represents over 100,000 tradespeople across New York City and affiliates in 15 international unions.
When Complete, the 16-Mile Queens Waterfront Greenway Will Connect Gantry Plaza State Park to Fort Totten Park Along the East River and Long Island Sound. Photo source: NYC DOT.
The announcement from Adams will allow New York City to use more efficient and effective project delivery models, reducing project timelines by years and saving taxpayers millions. More specifically, this PLA allows the city to utilize “design-build,” which enables a single entity to assume responsibility for construction and project design. Historically, the city has completed projects with separate construction and design contracts.
The city currently has plans to deliver:
$40 million deep sewer manhole project in Brooklyn
$150 million greenway along Lower Manhattan
$100 million waterfront dock reconstruction project in Staten Island and Queens
$240 million bridge and roadway improvement project in South Brooklyn
PLAs allow the city to solidify worker benefits, fair wages, and safety protections and provide room for workforce development while stabilizing construction costs within reasonable completion times.
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The construction industry is one of the biggest contributors to global carbon emissions. Buildings are responsible for more than 40% of annual CO₂ emissions worldwide, making sustainable construction essential in the fight against climate change. The Populus Hotel in Denver has taken bold strides as the country’s first carbon-positive hotel. Designed to minimize its environmental footprint and benefit the planet, Populus represents a groundbreaking achievement in sustainable construction.
Photo source: Populus Hotel
Inspired by nature, built for the future
The Populus Hotel’s design draws inspiration from Colorado’s native Aspen trees. This biophilic design doesn’t just look beautiful—it also reduces the building’s energy use and creates a connection to the natural world, fostering a sense of well-being for guests. Its façade features distinct “Aspen-eye” window shapes, which maximize natural light while improving energy efficiency by reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. Additionally, the innovative design helps regulate indoor temperatures by optimizing shading and heat retention, further decreasing energy consumption.
Photo source: Populus Hotel
How Populus became carbon-positive
Populus went beyond carbon neutrality by offsetting more emissions than it produces. Here’s how they achieved this:
Sustainable materials: The hotel was constructed using locally sourced, recycled, and sustainably certified materials, significantly reducing carbon emissions generated during the building process.
Tree planting: Populus has planted and maintains over 70,000 trees across 172 acres in Gunnison County, Colorado, to offset its carbon footprint. This large-scale reforestation project ensures the hotel actively contributes to carbon reduction.
Zero food waste: As the first hotel in downtown Denver with an on-site biodigester, Populus composts 100% of its food waste. This waste is then redistributed to local farms as compost, supporting regional agriculture and reducing landfill contributions.
Renewable energy: Committed to operating with 100% renewable electricity, the hotel further reduces its operational carbon footprint, ensuring clean energy powers its day-to-day activities.
Setting a new benchmark in sustainability
Photo source: Populus Hotel
Populus is a proof of concept for sustainable luxury. Focusing on sustainable construction materials, operational practices, and environmental stewardship paves the way for a new standard in the hospitality industry. As climate challenges grow, the Populus Hotel inspires other developers to prioritize eco-friendly initiatives without sacrificing comfort or style.
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New York’s Fifth Avenue has a new addition—and a new record for the tallest mixed-use building. 520 Fifth Avenue, scheduled to be completed in 2026, stands 1002 feet high with 88 floors of luxury residences, upscale office space, and a private member’s club.
Photo source: 520Fifth
The ambitious project was designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), developed by Rubina, and built by Suffolk Construction. The building draws inspiration from New York’s Beaux Arts movement in its gracefully arched windows, tiered setbacks, and warm finishes while incorporating a natural textural feel with terracotta and enameled metal.
The first three floors of the building house retail spaces, restaurants, and a private club. The following 25 floors will be dedicated to office space, with 25 luxury offices ranging from 6,500 square feet to 12,000 square feet, each occupying an entire floor. Office spaces have 12-foot-tall ceilings, private terraces, and operable windows.
The upper levels of 520 Fifth Avenue contain 100 lavish one- to four-bedroom residences, 70% of which have already sold. The residential units offer soaring 14-foot ceilings and 10-foot windows with views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the New York skyline. Residents will also have access to a private amenity suite on the 88th floor, with a lounge, dining room, library, and glass-walled solarium.
Photo source: 520Fifth
Charles & Co. designed 520 Fifth Avenue’s interior spaces to reflect the vintage elegance of its exterior. On the project’s website, it states: “Charles & Co selected the finest materials and textures—European-inspired mosaics, handsome millwork, richly veined stone, and patterned textiles and wallcoverings—to create timeless rooms that are warm and elegant, memorable and evocative.”
Excavation for the skyscraper began in late 2021, and above-ground construction started in March 2023. Construction is expected to be completed in 2026. For more information, visit 520Fifth.com.
Pittsburgh residents can look forward to not one but two exciting entertainment developments on the city’s Northside. Real estate company Piatt Cos. is spearheading the production of the Esplanade, the mixed-use, sustainable development project, while Live Nation recently broke ground to develop their new music venue in Pittsburgh’s Lower Hill District. The Esplanade’s price tag totals around $740 million, and the music venue will cost roughly $64 million, making the total over $800 million for the city.
The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) approved the construction of the new live music venue, which can accommodate up to 4,500 people. Its capacity is similar to Pittsburgh’s Stage AE’s outdoor concert area, and if all goes to plan, musical acts could take the stage as early as 2026.
Rendering of proposed Live Nation music venue in Pittsburgh’s Hill District. Photo source: Live Nation.
As part of the contract, the URA says owners must employ a diverse workforce in its development and apply a $2 surcharge on each ticket, which will go toward community development activities in the Hill District. Live Nation must also commit to booking at least 25 events in the New Grenada Theatre down the street to keep entertainment dispersed in the neighborhood.
The Esplanade will include an entertainment, housing, and retail project with a 164-foot-tall Ferris wheel. Molly Onafur, Piatt’s Director of Public Affairs, says the $740 million cost is based on the Pennsylvania Economy League of Greater Pittsburgh’s analysis. The project includes a 225-room hotel with event space and ballroom, 300 apartments, 105 condominiums, retail and food space, and even a river safety facility for national, state, and local agencies.
Rendering of the ‘Esplanade’ development currently underway in Pittsburgh’s North Shore. Photo source: Piatt.
Construction will be completed in two phases, with Piatt kicking off in the first phase in 2025. After closing on the land purchased from the Urban Development Authority, the company will have two years to complete the build. The close is anticipated for March 31, 2025.
Map of the proposed Esplanade development presented to the City Planning Commission on Nov. 12.
Once complete, the Esplanade is expected to revitalize the community by encouraging connection and building a “first-day” Pittsburgh destination. The development will feature state-of-the-art design while embracing nature and promoting sustainability and outdoor recreation. The concert hall is expected to be a place for events that would typically skip over the city on their way to entertainment hubs like Chicago and New York City.
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Airports are transforming, evolving from mere transit points into full-fledged destinations. Travelers no longer dread long layovers; they look forward to exploring unique features like art galleries, gourmet dining, and cultural exhibits. Singapore’s Changi Airport, for example, offers everything from botanical gardens to a mesmerizing indoor waterfall, while Denver International Airport is renowned for its striking art installations and wintertime ice-skating rink. These innovations showcase how airports blend functionality with leisure, making them integral parts of the travel experience.
Quick look
Modern airports prioritize experiences over traditional amenities. From wellness spas to IMAX theaters, they cater to travelers seeking leisure, relaxation, and entertainment during their journey.
Airports like Singapore Changi and Denver International are redefining the layover experience with breathtaking attractions such as indoor waterfalls, ice rinks, and lush gardens.
Leading airports showcase their host city’s culture through art, cuisine, and performances. Incheon offers Korean craft workshops, while Narita lets travelers experience tea ceremonies, turning waiting times into cultural experiences.
Airports like Beijing Daxing and Jewel Changi are as much about design as functionality. With their striking aesthetics and local touches, they serve as awe-inspiring gateways that reflect the spirit of their cities.
Many airports are embracing green spaces and eco-friendly designs. Jewel Changi’s lush greenery and Munich’s focus on local charm highlight the shift towards sustainable, immersive environments.
With attractions like Hong Kong’s SkyCity and Dubai’s expansive duty-free shopping, airports are evolving into hubs of luxury and culture, transforming air travel into an integral part of the adventure.
Airports as destinations: what’s the draw?
Airports are reinventing themselves as hubs of culture, commerce, and relaxation. This evolution stems from several factors, including fierce competition, rising passenger expectations, and a growing desire to showcase local culture. Today’s best airports offer experiences that rival tourist attractions, ensuring that travelers’ time on the ground is as enjoyable as their journey through the air.
City branding and architectural identity
Airports are becoming powerful symbols of a city’s identity. Iconic structures like Beijing Daxing International Airport, designed by the late Zaha Hadid, and Singapore Changi’s Jewel combine cutting-edge architecture with local character. These spaces are often visitors’ first impressions of a city, so designers and architects aim to capture the essence of their locations while creating functional spaces that inspire awe.
Take Jewel Changi Airport as an example. Its centerpiece, the Rain Vortex, is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery. This installation blends Singapore’s reputation as a “City in a Garden” with the latest in architectural innovation. Similarly, Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok combines traditional Thai aesthetics with sleek, modern design, creating a gateway that’s both culturally and visually stunning.
The shift toward experiential travel
Airports recognize that today’s travelers value experiences over transactions. Amenities like wellness spas, art exhibitions, and cultural performances cater to this demand, allowing airports to differentiate themselves and provide value beyond convenience. For instance, Incheon International Airport in South Korea offers traditional Korean craft workshops and live performances, giving passengers a glimpse into local culture.
10 airports that should be on your “must-stop” list
These airports stand out not just for their utility but for their ability to captivate and engage travelers. Whether through cultural immersion, architectural brilliance, or leisure activities, they make the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
1. Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
Photo source: Spot PH
Location: Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong
Passenger volume: Over 71 million annually (pre-pandemic)
Hong Kong International Airport is a symbol of the city’s dynamic energy. The sprawling complex offers something for every traveler, from world-class shopping to immersive entertainment options. The airport features Asia’s largest IMAX screen, allowing passengers to enjoy blockbuster films with unparalleled visual quality.
Photo source: Thrillophilia
For aviation enthusiasts, the Aviation Discovery Centre provides interactive exhibits that explore the science of flight. HKG’s SkyCity, a mixed-use development project, is set to further elevate the airport as a lifestyle hub, with attractions ranging from a high-end hotel to an aviation-themed park. Its seamless connections to the Greater Bay Area via ferries and high-speed rail make it an essential gateway to the region.
2. Denver International Airport (DEN)
Location: Denver, Colorado, USA
Passenger volume: Over 69 million annually
Denver International Airport is renowned for its striking design, with a peaked roof resembling the snow-capped Rocky Mountains. Inside, the airport delights visitors with an impressive art program that includes murals, sculptures, and even a gargoyle sculpture offering humorous commentary on travel.
Photo sources: The Colordo Sun and The Colorado Post.
During winter, passengers can enjoy ice skating on the plaza, a unique feature among airports worldwide. DEN also supports Colorado’s thriving local food scene with dining options featuring regional specialties like bison burgers and craft beers. Its ongoing expansion projects aim to enhance the passenger experience while maintaining its reputation as one of the most artistically vibrant airports in the U.S.
3. Munich International Airport (MUC)
Photo source: Flights From
Location: Munich, Germany
Passenger volume: Over 47 million annually
Munich International Airport combines efficiency with Bavarian charm. One of its impressive features is the Airbräu brewery, which serves freshly brewed beer right in the terminal, offering travelers a taste of local culture. Seasonal events, such as a Christmas market complete with holiday lights and traditional German treats, add to its appeal.
Photo source: Munich Airport
The airport’s Visitor Park is another draw, featuring an aviation museum, a playground, and even a mini-golf course. With its green spaces, thoughtfully designed lounges, and efficient layout, MUC makes layovers enjoyable rather than stressful.
4. Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO)
Location: Zhengzhou, China
Passenger volume: Over 29 million annually
Situated at the heart of China’s burgeoning logistics network, Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport is more than just a transit hub. It’s the centerpiece of the Zhengzhou Airport Economy Zone, which promotes regional innovation and commerce. The airport boasts a modern design with expansive terminals that prioritize passenger comfort.
High-speed rail connections make it easy for travelers to reach nearby cities, enhancing its role as a regional gateway. Though primarily known for its logistical prowess, the airport is steadily adding more passenger-focused amenities to improve the travel experience.
5. Narita International Airport (NRT)
Location: Narita, Japan
Passenger volume: Over 33 million annually
Narita International Airport offers a rich blend of Japanese tradition and modern convenience. Travelers can immerse themselves in cultural activities, from calligraphy workshops to samurai armor exhibits. Seasonal displays, such as cherry blossom arrangements, bring a touch of Japan’s natural beauty into the terminal. The airport also provides interactive experiences, including Japanese tea ceremonies and traditional music performances, allowing travelers to connect deeply with the culture before continuing their journey.
The airport features a variety of shops offering unique Japanese products, from artisanal sweets to handcrafted souvenirs. High-quality dining options serve everything from fresh sushi to authentic ramen, giving visitors a taste of Japan’s world-famous cuisine. Its efficient layout and dedicated rest areas, including capsule-style sleeping pods and quiet zones, make it a favorite among frequent travelers.
6. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Passenger volume: Over 60 million annually
Known for its sleek and modern design, Suvarnabhumi Airport seamlessly blends functionality with luxury. Its steel-and-glass structure creates a bright and airy atmosphere, making it a pleasant space to spend time in. Passengers can enjoy Thai massages at on-site spas, shop for designer goods, or savor authentic Thai cuisine at its many restaurants.
Photo source: Renown Travel
The airport’s location near Bangkok’s key attractions makes it an ideal tourist gateway. With efficient operations and a focus on passenger satisfaction, Suvarnabhumi consistently ranks among the world’s top airports. Its seamless connectivity to downtown Bangkok through an express train ensures that tourists can easily access the vibrant city after arrival.
7. Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
Photo source: Sailing Click
Location: Singapore
Passenger volume: Over 68 million annually
Singapore Changi Airport is widely regarded as the gold standard in airport design and amenities. The Jewel complex, featuring the stunning Rain Vortex and Canopy Park, is a marvel of engineering and a destination in its own right, offering attractions like walking nets, mirror mazes, and a lush indoor garden.
Photo sources: Simply Flying and Landscape Engineering PTE Ltd.
Terminal 3 is home to a serene butterfly garden, providing a tranquil escape amid the hustle and bustle. The rooftop swimming pool allows travelers to unwind while enjoying panoramic airport views, creating an unparalleled pre-flight experience. Changi also impresses with art installations that reflect the spirit of innovation and a curated selection of international dining options, ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to local street food.
Free city tours and sleeping pods enhance convenience for those with layovers, making this airport more than a transit hub—it’s a destination designed to delight.
8. Incheon International Airport (ICN)
Photo source: Skytrax
Location: Incheon, South Korea
Passenger volume: Over 71 million annually
Incheon International Airport is a leader in combining cutting-edge technology with cultural immersion. Free city tours for transit passengers make it easy to explore nearby attractions, while inside the terminal, traditional Korean performances and craft workshops provide a taste of local culture. The airport also offers extensive shopping and dining options, catering to luxury travelers and budget-conscious visitors.
A sprawling indoor garden and an ice-skating rink enhance the experience, offering unique ways to unwind during layovers. Its efficiency and emphasis on passenger comfort have earned it multiple awards over the years, solidifying its status as one of the world’s premier travel hubs.
9. Hamad International Airport (DOH)
Photo source: HOK
Location: Doha, Qatar
Passenger volume: Over 38 million annually
Hamad International Airport offers an unparalleled luxury experience. Its art program features stunning installations, such as The Lamp Bear by Urs Fischer, which has become an iconic centerpiece. The airport’s wellness center includes a swimming pool, spa, and squash courts, providing a welcome escape for weary travelers. High-end shopping options include everything from global luxury brands to local handicrafts, making it a haven for those seeking retail therapy.
Photo source: Travel + Leisure
Its design emphasizes space and light, making it one of the most visually striking airports in the world. In addition, Hamad International boasts a state-of-the-art passenger train system, ensuring seamless transitions between terminals. Travelers also praise its quiet rooms and family-friendly amenities, further elevating the travel experience.
10. Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Location: Dubai, UAE
Passenger volume: Over 88 million annually
Dubai International Airport embodies the city’s reputation for extravagance. Passengers can enjoy luxury lounges, world-class dining, and shopping that rivals the finest malls. DXB’s sprawling terminals also feature relaxation zones, prayer rooms, and play areas for children, ensuring that all types of travelers feel welcome. Its proximity to Dubai’s attractions makes it a convenient starting point for exploring the city. The airport also offers one of the world’s most extensive duty-free shopping experiences, catering to both high-end and affordable tastes.
Photo source: Business Recorder
Additionally, Dubai International boasts impressive technological innovations, such as biometric systems for seamless and efficient passenger flow. Whether arriving for a business trip or a vacation, passengers are treated to a lavish, comfortable, and convenient travel experience.
Bottom line
Airports have evolved into spaces that blend convenience with culture, offering travelers a glimpse into their host cities. From the innovation of Singapore Changi to the cultural immersion at Narita, these hubs are reshaping the travel experience. As airports continue to innovate, they’re becoming destinations worth exploring, whether you’re catching a flight or simply passing through.
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