Carrasco International Airport, Montevideo, Uruguay
2009
Rafael Vinoly Architects


image from ING Media 310708

Release 6 Feb 2008:

CARRASCO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT NEW TERMINAL UNDER CONSTRUCTION IN MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY COMPLETION SCHEDULED FOR EARLY 2009



The new terminal at Carrasco International Airport, which serves Uruguay’s capital city of Montevideo, is the firm’s first airport project and the second of Rafael Viñoly’s two buildings currently rising in his home country. Created to expand capacity and spur commercial growth and tourism in the surrounding region, the terminal is scheduled for completion in early 2009.



The design of the building emphasizes its public zones and amenities, providing these areas with an abundance of open space and natural light. Arriving travellers, for example, pass through a fully glazed mezzanine level that helps orient them to the terminal space before they descend to the baggage claim and other services. A public, landscaped terrace and a restaurant occupy the second floor, providing sweeping views of the runway and the main concourse.



Independent access roads service departures on the first floor and arrivals on the ground level. An open atrium adjacent to the street entrance opens the ground floor to the monumental space of the main hall, visually and spatially linking the beginning and ending stages of a traveller’s journey.



Key features:
• curved roof maintains a low profile on landscape
• strategic use of daylighting and views guide travellers through arrival/departure sequence
• design highlights public spaces for both travellers and non-travelling friends and family



“In Uruguay, friends and family still come to greet you at the airport or see you off,” says Rafael Viñoly, ”so this terminal provides great spaces for the people who aren’t travelling as well as those who are. The atrium, the main hall, the terrace, and the passenger concourse make this a dramatic and welcoming place for everyone.”

Carrasco International Airport Info from Rafael Vinoly Architects 6 Feb 2008




image from Rafael Viñoly Architects 220107

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Uruguay Airport building architect : Rafael Vinoly

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Carrasco International Airport : page - adrian welch / isabelle lomholt