Genova Airport (GOA): Passenger Terminal Extension

The project, part of an extraordinary program of urgent investment for the recovery and development of the airport and related accessibility infrastructures, as well as the intermodal connection of the airport with the city, involves the construction of a new 5,500 sqm building that has been designed in continuity with the existing terminal. It comprises three functional levels and the restyling of the existing building with particular attention given to the check-in and boarding area. The new design will not only enable the airport to increase capacity in line with the expected passenger traffic, it will also improve operational efficiency and raising quality standards throughout the airport.

As the design leader, Oneworks worked in close collaboration with AD-ET studio, who recently provided designs for a new baggage handling system at the airport. Working closely with the client throughout the design phase, a number of solutions were identified in order to efficiently increase capacity and adapt the terminal from a functional and qualitative point of view, whilst considering existing constraints and the need to guarantee full operations during the works.

Following the decision to relocate the security screening area to the expansion volume, a significant reconfiguration of the landside departures hall was required. This, combined with the demolition and relocation of the existing central stairwell, has resulted in more efficient passenger flows and additional terminal space for other functions, thereby enhancing the overall passenger experience.

The design allows passengers to move through the airport more easily, with improved connections between the different levels. A new core of vertical circulation provides access to the airside terrace for passengers waiting to board, while a direct connection to the ground-floor baggage reclaim area is designated for passengers arriving on contact flights.

The new terminal extension is characterised by rational geometries that emphasise the airport’s new identity while ensuring architectural integration with the existing volumes. The external envelope, composed of large glazed surfaces on both the airside and landside facades, allows natural light to flood the interior spaces, enhancing their quality and comfort for passengers and airport staff alike. In line with the firm’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and energy efficiency, the design incorporates building materials and architectural finishes with a high proportion of recycled content and superior technical performance.

Finally, to significantly reduce the construction period with an expected to build time of  just 22 months, Oneworks proposed relocating the existing underground utilities, whose installation is nearing completion, in preparation for clearing the areas designated for the terminal expansion.