Some of the world’s most beautiful and innovatively crafted buildings are also some of the oldest. But impressive waves in engineering mean that today’s new buildings are more efficient, creative and interesting than ever.
The World Architecture Festival, as well as naming the Building and Interior of the Year, has a category spotlighting some of the most impressive, futuristic feats of architecture. And this year, the Future Project of the Year award was handed to Gelephu International Airport in Bhutan.
Designed by BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group, the airport will be Bhutan’s second international hub, beginning with 123 daily flights when it opens in 2029, but aiming to welcome 5.5 million passengers by 2065.
Its design champions regional crafts and natural lighting, and the grid structure of the terminal building is built from Bhutanese wood-carved timber, which helps regulate the humidity indoors.
The airport will feature spaces for gong baths, yoga and meditation, but ‘passenger experience and operational efficiency’ are its priority. Below are some images of what the airport will look like once complete.
Recommended: These are the planet’s most beautiful buildings, according to .
For more coverage on the World Architecture Festival, have a read about this Spanish church which was officially crowned World Building of the Year, and the Austrian chapel that was named World Interior of the Year.
Did you see that this European city is hosting a second Christmas Day – with a gingerbread bus and special festive currency?
Plus: A major French art museum known as the ‘Little Louvre’ has reopened after 14 years.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news and best stuff happening across the world.
