Portland International Airport (PDX) has proudly unveiled its newly expanded main terminal, showcasing a stunning mass timber design. Crafted by ZGF Architects, this monumental $2 billion renovation represents a groundbreaking achievement for the Port of Portland, establishing it as the largest mass timber project globally. With this expansion, the airport is set to double its capacity, allowing it to serve up to 35 million travelers each year by 2045.
The terminal’s design beautifully captures the essence of the Pacific Northwest’s natural splendor. Spanning 9 acres, the mass timber roof creates an enchanting atmosphere reminiscent of wandering through a lush forest, offering sweeping views of the airfield and the picturesque surroundings. Inside, the spaces are bathed in natural light and adorned with greenery, fostering an ambiance that reflects the region’s distinctive charm. “Everyone adores Portland International Airport,” remarks Gene Sandoval, Partner at ZGF. “Our task was to enhance capacity while crafting an experience that passengers and staff would cherish just as much as the original.”
The expansion of the PDX Airport Main Terminal in Portland stands as a testament to mass timber innovation. Utilizing 3.5 million board feet of wood for the roof, flooring, concessions, and feature walls, the materials were sourced from within a 300-mile radius of the airport. This includes contributions from small family-owned forests, non-profit organizations, and tribal nations. This eco-friendly initiative by ZGF not only bolsters local economies but also celebrates Oregon’s legacy of forest product innovation. The mass timber roof, a true engineering marvel, embodies both the rich history and the promising future of sustainable wood design.
The choice to incorporate mass timber into the expansive 9-acre roof of the terminal stemmed from a blend of cost-effectiveness, ease of construction, and a commitment to honoring the rich timber heritage of the Pacific Northwest. This remarkable roof features forty-nine uniquely shaped skylights that allow natural light to pour into sixty percent of the terminal’s interior. Crafted from mass plywood panels, glulam beams, and timber lattice, the structure pays homage to the traditional weaving techniques of the region. This elaborate design not only showcases exceptional craftsmanship but also enhances the terminal’s sustainability by minimizing reliance on steel and other materials.
ZGF’s approach to the timber airport expansion was rooted in urban planning principles, inspired by the walkable neighborhoods of Portland. The design incorporates smaller-scale architectural elements within the vast space, guiding travelers through a seamless journey from the redesigned ticket hall to security checkpoints and ultimately to their gates. The pre-security marketplace, envisioned as a vibrant public area, features stadium seating and showcases local goods and dining options. After passing through security, the terminal continues to prioritize comfort and accessibility, with tree-lined pathways, inviting café seating, and urban furniture that encourages travelers to take their time.
With a strong emphasis on enhancing the passenger experience, the design team sought to alleviate the stress often linked to air travel by crafting a serene environment infused with natural elements. Collaborations with Terrapin Bright Green and PLACE landscape architects ensured that biophilic design—fostering a connection between people and nature—was woven throughout the terminal. The outcome is a tranquil space where travelers can unwind and savor their journey, meandering through tree-lined paths, lush gardens, and over 5,000 thoughtfully placed plants.
The choice to incorporate mass timber into the expansive 9-acre roof of the terminal stemmed from a blend of cost-effectiveness, ease of construction, and a commitment to honoring the rich timber heritage of the Pacific Northwest. This remarkable roof features forty-nine skylights of diverse shapes and sizes, allowing natural light to illuminate sixty percent of the terminal’s interior. Crafted from mass plywood panels, glulam beams, and timber lattice, the structure pays homage to traditional weaving techniques native to the area. This elaborate design not only showcases exceptional craftsmanship but also enhances the terminal’s sustainability by minimizing reliance on steel and other materials.
ZGF approached the timber airport expansion with a keen eye on urban planning, inspired by the walkable neighborhoods of Portland. The design incorporates smaller-scale architecture within the vast space, guiding travelers through a seamless journey from the redesigned ticket hall to security checkpoints and onward to their gates. The pre-security marketplace, envisioned as a vibrant public area, features stadium seating and showcases local goods and dining options. After passing through security, the terminal continues to prioritize comfort and accessibility, with tree-lined pathways, café seating, and urban furniture that encourage travelers to take their time.
With a strong emphasis on enhancing the passenger experience, the design team sought to alleviate the stress often linked to air travel by crafting a serene environment infused with natural elements. Collaborations with Terrapin Bright Green and PLACE landscape architects ensured that biophilia—the innate connection between humans and nature—was woven throughout the terminal. The outcome is a soothing space where travelers can unwind and savor their journey, meandering through tree-lined paths, lush gardens, and over 5,000 thoughtfully placed plants.
Rather than building a completely new terminal from scratch, the Port of Portland and ZGF chose to implement a phased renovation and expansion strategy. This decision ensured that the airport could operate smoothly throughout the five-year construction timeline. A key feature of this project was the prefabricated wooden roof that gracefully covers the expanded lobby, check-in, and security zones, significantly reducing disruptions. This method not only streamlined the process and cut costs but also lessened the project’s environmental impact.
The enhancement of Portland International Airport’s main terminal is more than just a reaction to the growing needs of air travel; it represents a visionary initiative that redefines airport architecture. With the second phase already in progress and expected to wrap up in early 2026, the terminal is set to further transform, introducing new retail and dining options that will elevate the overall experience for travelers.