Wave of the Future

Much has been made of the fact that the New Doha International Airport will be able to accommodate "superjumbo" jets. But that’s not the only super aspect of the new facility, now under construction in Qatar. It boasts an inspiring design that transcends the functional role of an airport, turning it into a modern version of an eternal oasis in the desert.

Nearly every part of the airport evokes water. The vast passenger complex, with its wave-like roof structure, will reflect its seaside setting, and arriving passengers will be greeted by water features.

The exterior walls of the Emri terminal (for royals, government officials, and visiting dignitaries) will rise up through the higher, wider areas of the terminal and through the glazed roof, like tall sails on seafaring vessel. The main entrance of the terminal will overlook a lagoon.

There also will be a public mosque featuring a water droplet-like circular glass structure and a gently domed roof. Accentuating the water theme and providing an aura of tranquility, the mosque will circled by a reflecting pool.

Beauty will be more than skin deep at the new airport, which will employ advanced environmental engineering to conserve water and energy. Buildings will embrace low-reflective materials, glazing, and insulation, while inward angled curtain-wall facades from the roof overhang to the ground will limit sun exposure in the passenger terminal, further reducing the need for internal cooling.