Pioneering new concepts showcase Heathrow’s vision for the hub airport of the future

Four of the UK’s leading architectural practices have unveiled pioneering new concepts that bring to life Heathrow’s vision for the expansion of Britain’s global gateway.

Seeking to drive a step-change in global airport design, Heathrow challenged the architects to push the boundary of what an airport could and should be. They were asked to come up with bold ideas to create a world-class sustainable airport that would deliver innovations in passenger service, integrate local communities and showcase the best of British design. Affordability and flexibility were also key to the brief to ensure that Heathrow remained adaptable in the fast-paced world of global aviation.

The shortlist of architects – which includes Grimshaw , Zaha Hadid, HOK and Benoy – was announced today alongside the visionary conceptual images. The next phase of the tender process will further test their creativity before a final concept designer is selected in July.

Heathrow’s Head of Design Barry Weekes said:
“From welcoming Concorde to the landmark Terminals 2 and 5, Heathrow has always been at the heart of showcasing the best of British innovation and design.
The visionary concepts are just the start of a dialogue which will fundamentally redefine what an airport is, how it looks and feels, how it interacts with its environment and an increasingly demanding generation of new passengers and importantly enhancing how it connects with the communities around it. Our ambition for expansion is to transform Heathrow once again – building Britain a value for money global gateway at the forefront of sustainable development and innovative design.”