Heathrow reveals new images and video of airport expansion design concept

Heathrow Airport has revealed new images and a video displaying concept designs for proposed expansion. The airport also named the architectural practice that will bring its vision to life.

Heathrow has named the selected designer who will bring its vision to reality if chosen by the Government for airport expansion in South East England. Grimshaw – the global architectural practice – was selected from a shortlist of four of the UK’s top architects which also included Zaha Hadid, HOK and Benoy.

This announcement follows news that Arup, CH2M, MACE and Turner & Townsend will help ensure the expansion programme will be delivered to industry standards in planning, innovation and quality.

According to the airport, Grimshaw was selected for its visionary concept designs, which pushed the boundary of what an airport could and should be, and unique ideas around how Heathrow could be expanded in a sustainable but affordable way.

Fly-through animation of proposed Central Terminal Area

The airport also revealed new images of the concept designs alongside a fly-through animation of a proposed new design for the Central Terminal Area:

Head of Design at Heathrow, Barry Weekes, said: “We look forward to working with Grimshaw to develop their bold ideas so that once the Government approves the Heathrow expansion, we can create a world-class sustainable hub airport which delivers for our passengers, our airlines and also helps to integrate Heathrow with our local communities. With the Concept Architect and Programme Client Partners now in place, we are now ready to begin the process of expansion once the Government makes the right choice for the whole of Britain.”

Partner at Grimshaw, Jolyon Brewis, said: “We are passionate about designing a new future for Heathrow Airport; setting a benchmark for sustainable infrastructure, skilfully integrated with the communities it serves. Heathrow have ambitious plans for the expansion of the airport and we are proud to be selected to help deliver this inspirational vision.”

A decision as to where airport expansion should be is expected to be made by government in October this year.