Principal Michelle Vo joined ARCAT’s “Detailed” Podcast to share insights on the Portland International Airport Concourse E Extension. Michelle discusses the purpose of the extension, how it rebalances passenger flow, and how the expansive curtainwall glazing brings natural light into the concourse and frames views of Mount Hood, the Columbia River, and the surrounding airfield. Michelle also shares how the design team addressed daylighting, heat gain, and glare through strategies including fritted glass, tints, exterior fins, and automated shades. Listen to the podcast episode here or watch below.
Opened to the public in July 2020, the significant addition to PDX Concourse E extended the concourse more than 800 feet, adding nine total, concessions, and other amenities while improving airline operational spaces. Hennebery Eddy and Fentress Studios collaborated on the extension and associated improvements, inspired by Oregon’s natural landscape and complementary to the materials and form of the broader airport campus. A sweeping, sloped curtainwall floods the interior with natural light, tempered by a pattern of varying intensities of frit and tinted glazing. Coupled with a regionally inspired palette, the abundant daylight and views support universal design goals and reinforce a strong sense of place. The project is certified LEED Gold and earned awards for its energy efficiency, extensive daylighting, and use of recycled and locally made materials.
