Springfield/Branson Airport

The diversity and richness of Southwest Missouri is reflected throughout the design of this new airport terminal. The architectural design reflects its location in the Ozark Mountains with an organization based on references to the area’s geological limestone strata, forested areas, and recreational lakes and rivers. These natural references serve as metaphors to inform the interior design of public spaces into geological, landscape, and water zones.

RS&H blended lighting in with ceiling design and architectural elements to form a harmonious whole. The ticketing lobby ceiling is formed from gently-curved planes of stainless steel mesh suspended below the roof structure. Indirect linear fixtures provides soft ambient lighting. Accent lighting provides a focus at ticket counters and baggage claim areas.

The team’s decisions on lighting selection and equipment were guided by energy savings, maintainability and lighting performance requirements. Along concourse circulation areas utilize suspended linear lighting units in a pattern suggesting the flow of a stream, maintaining a ‘river’ theme. Waiting areas feature low-glare downlights for quiet efficiency.

For the curbside, our architects designed steel ‘tree’ structures supporting a continuous canopy roof. We integrated lighting into this structure, creating a welcoming approach to the terminal. High-mast fixtures make for efficient apron lighting.

Each building volume is a loft space that can be individually expanded. Common use ticketing, fixed loading bridges, and a single-level passenger experience make this building extremely easy to use and adaptable to future change.