Los Angeles International Airport is the sixth busiest airport in the world and third in the United States. Constructed in 1962 as LAX’s original international terminal, Terminal 2 was demolished and rebuilt in 1988. As a part of the overall LAX Concessions Renovation Program, Westfield contracted us as the executive architect to refine and deliver their cutting-edge design of the Terminal 2 modernization.
The interior renovation transformed the existing, dated terminal into a new, world-class experience for travelers that features 20 new dining and retail destinations. With three distinct districts, the traveler journey begins after crossing the TSA checkpoint with a meandering Commercial Hub that connects to a Dining Terrace with several unique destinations, textured surfaces, and lounge-style seating. The journey continues with The Strand; an open, flowing dining and shopping area with a grand, sculptural staircase leading to a mezzanine with café that overlooks the concourse below.
This LAX Terminal 2 project includes interior renovations to the existing arrivals level concourse including a re-invention of the aesthetic of the concourse and a rebranding of concessions. The same is true for the departures level concourse and includes all concessions, retail shops, passenger hold rooms, vertical circulation, and restroom facilities. The project was phased to allow for continuing operations during construction with minimal impact to passenger flow and airfield operations to successfully complete construction in time for the 2015 Special Olympics that were held in Los Angeles.