Terminal Landmark: Western Sydney’s Airport Nears Take-Off

The Western Sydney International Airport terminal has officially reached completion, marking Australia’s first major new airport in more than 50 years.

Situated in Badgerys Creek, the terminal redefines the typology of airport design, conceived not only as a transport hub but as a civic landmark rooted in place and oriented to the future.

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Originally proposed by COX Architecture and Zaha Hadid Architects via a 2019 international design competition, the project has since evolved through a close collaboration between COX, Zaha Hadid Architects, Woods Bagot, and builder Multiplex. The result is a terminal that balances spatial generosity with technical precision, cultural sensitivity and forward-thinking functionality.

The low, sweeping roofline—shaped in reference to the Cumberland Plain—anchors the building in its surrounds. Sculptural, timber-lined ceiling modules filter daylight into the vast departure hall, establishing a calming rhythm of light and shade. Expanses of glass along the perimeter enhance this sense of connection, drawing the surrounding landscape into view and reinforcing the terminal’s civic scale without overwhelming monumentality.

“A terminal that expresses both international ambition and a strong sense of place,” is how Zaha Hadid Architects’ Cristiano Ceccato describes the design intent. This ambition is echoed across the structure, from its natural material palette to interpretive artworks and etched details that acknowledge and respect Dharug Country. Consultation with Dharug custodians and First Nations consultant Murrawin was integral to the development of the terminal’s spatial and symbolic gestures.

Wayfinding and orientation have been treated with care and restraint. Clear sightlines and minimal signage allow architecture to guide passengers through the building seamlessly. “For many, this space marks their first encounter with Australia,” says COX’s David Holm. “We wanted that experience to feel unmistakably grounded in place.”

Functionality is matched by sustainability. Led by Woods Bagot during the design and delivery phase, the terminal achieved a 5 Star Green Star rating through its modular expansion strategy, passive ventilation, water recycling and high-efficiency systems.

As Western Sydney International Airport readies for 24-hour operations, the terminal stands as a new architectural identity for a region rapidly rising in global significance.

Images by Brett Boardman, Trevor Mein, courtesy Western Sydney International Airport via Designboom

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