Despite a damaging tornado that rocked the construction site, the $62-million “Airport Experience” renovation project restored Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, a historic mid-century aviation icon designed in 1956 by architect Minoru Yamasaki, to its original splendor. Repairs and clutter over the years had diminished its simple elegance, and a steady downturn in flights had left the St. Louis region uncertain about the airport’s value to the community. The design goal was to remove unnecessary elements and restore the space to its original essence, while also serving the needs of today’s airlines and passengers.
The multi-phased, modest-budget renovation modernized the main terminal and concourses. The design team incorporated the airport’s original strategies of openness and brightness into the renovation, with open views in and out of the terminal. Lighting improvements and windows allowed more light into the terminal for a brighter appearance throughout.