The North Terminal at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, opens the front door to a beloved city
The new Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport presents an innovative and functional approach to air travel with a design that reflects the vibrant culture of New Orleans. Symmetrical in plan, its gentle arc form evokes the geography of the Delta region and soft curves of the nearby Mississippi River.
Bringing the outdoors inside
Upon arrival, travelers will be greeted with an interior design that alludes to the culture, ecology, and urban fabric of New Orleans. Drawing colors and patterns from the famous New Orleans neighborhood and indoor green spaces that recall the public squares and courts essential to the city are integrated into the airport experience. Skylights brighten the public spaces and filter daylight, filling the interiors with the dappled light often seen in the city’s many courtyards and shaded parks.
“This airport terminal will immerse our guests in the spirit of New Orleans upon arrival and will also give our residents a welcome reminder of how nice it is to return home to New Orleans.”
— Stephen Perry, President and CEO of New Orleans & Company
A grand and welcoming arrival
Arriving passengers enter at the second floor, moving from the concourses through the main terminal before reaching a central atrium that connects and unites the three floors of the terminal. Continuing to the first level, travelers are then greeted by a spacious and inviting arrivals hall featuring an indoor sculpture garden and impressive views of the central skylight above.
More About the Project
Project Team
- Fred W. Clarke, FAIA, JIA, RIBA ↗
- Mark R. Shoemaker, AIA ↗
- Randolph Volenec
- Greg Biancardi
- Enzo Figueres ↗
- Wilma Lam
Principal Collaborators
- Architect of Record: Manning Architects / Crescent City Aviation Team (Leo A. Daly and Atkins North America, Inc. JV)
- Structural Engineer: Walter P. Moore and Associates, Inc.
- MEP: Syska Hennessy Group
Project Information
- Location: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
- Client: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
- Size: 650,000 sq. ft. / 60,387 sq. m.
- Completion: 2019
- Firm Role: Design Concept Architect
- Principal Project Photography: Jason O'Rear