As the world of aviation continues to evolve, airports are transcending their traditional roles, transforming into architectural icons that embody the spirit and innovation of their cities.
With travelers increasingly seeking comfort, efficiency, and beauty in their airport experiences, a select group of terminals has distinguished themselves through outstanding design, functionality, and sustainability.
In 2025, the esteemed Prix Versailles Award will honor remarkable airport terminals recognized for redefining the passenger experience through innovative architecture and thoughtful design.
These nominees exemplify the fusion of modern technology and local cultural elements, setting the stage for the future of airport design.
Airports now serve as vital hubs reflecting the identity of their regions and enhancing the travel experience for millions each year.
The Prix Versailles, awarded by UNESCO, evaluates each terminal on criteria that include design, efficiency, and how well they reflect local culture and identity.
This year’s nominees represent a wide array of architectural styles and technological advancements, showcasing sustainable designs that minimize environmental impact while offering cutting-edge amenities for travelers.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most beautiful and innovative airport terminals nominated for the prestigious Prix Versailles award in 2025.
**Yantai Penglai International Airport (YNT/ZSYT), China**
Opened in 2015, Yantai Penglai International Airport serves as a key transportation hub in Shandong Province, China.
Its Terminal 2, which debuted in 2023, has been nominated for the Prix Versailles due to its unique design inspired by the natural beauty of the coastal city of Yantai.
Spanning 167,000 square meters, the terminal architecture reflects the nearby Kunyu Mountain, forging a striking visual connectivity between the airport and its surrounding landscape.
The E-shaped design not only enhances natural lighting but also promotes open spaces, resulting in a relaxed atmosphere that greatly enhances the passenger experience.
Incorporating sustainable practices, the terminal minimizes its environmental footprint.
Key features include a seamless multi-level atrium, a direct railway connection, and nine flexible boarding gates, alongside premium lounges offering showers, gourmet dining, and business zones.
Yantai Penglai International’s Terminal 2 exemplifies the future of airport design by merging natural elements with advanced technology, creating a world-class experience for travelers.
**Marseille Provence Airport, Terminal 1 (MRS/LFML), France**
Nestled in the vibrant southern region of France, Marseille Provence Airport introduced its new Terminal 1 in 2024, modernizing the travel experience while reflecting the city’s rich maritime heritage.
The heart-shaped design optimizes space while minimizing the terminal’s impact on its beautiful surroundings.
Drawing inspiration from the boat houses of Marseille’s Old Port, the terminal’s wooden and glass facades create a welcoming vibe, with natural light flooding the interior.
Notably, the terminal employs sustainable materials, constructed with 70% recycled steel and wood, reducing the environmental consequences of the building process.
Inside, passengers can enjoy diverse shops, restaurants, and a luxurious lounge for premium travelers.
With its focus on eco-friendly design and seamless integration into the local cultural tapestry, Marseille Provence Airport’s Terminal 1 stands as a beacon of sustainable architecture within the aviation sector.
**Roland Garros Airport, Arrivals Terminal (RUN/FMEE), Réunion Island**
Located on the picturesque tropical island of Réunion in the Indian Ocean, Roland Garros Airport is the gateway to this French overseas department.
The airport’s new arrivals terminal, covering 13,000 square meters, was designed with sustainability as a keystone.
Its bioclimatic structure utilizes natural sunlight and ventilation, significantly reducing reliance on air conditioning while ensuring a comfortable setting for passengers.
Additionally, the incorporation of local materials and craftsmanship is notable, as 91% of the construction work was performed by local businesses, further enriching the local economy.
Surrounded by lush greenery, automatic louvers adjust based on sun angles, ensuring a pleasant environment all day long.
Roland Garros Airport’s arrivals terminal serves as a quintessential example of how airport design can honor local culture and embrace environmental sustainability, ultimately providing visitors with a positive first impression of Réunion.
**Kansai International Airport, Terminal 1 (KIX/RJBB), Japan**
Renowned as one of Japan’s busiest and most iconic airports, Kansai International Airport is situated on an artificial island off the coast of Osaka.
Terminal 1, originally built in the 1990s, has recently undergone significant expansion, adding 25% more space in anticipation of the 2025 World Expo.
The updated design reflects the latest in Japanese architectural aesthetics, featuring local materials and an efficient layout that streamlines passenger movement.
New amenities have been incorporated, such as an intelligent queue management system designed to enhance operational efficiency and passenger flow.
Kansai Airport’s Terminal 1 is a remarkable blend of modern design and traditional Japanese influences, ensuring a culturally resonant experience for traveling guests.
With its extensive renovations showcasing Japanese architectural advancements, Kansai International Airport’s Terminal 1 confidently ranks as one of the key contenders for the Prix Versailles in 2025.
**Portland International Airport (PDX/KPDX), United States**
Portland International Airport is well-known for its environmentally conscious approach and seamless integration with the city’s stunning natural landscape.
The newly renovated main terminal, which opened in 2024, is inspired by Oregon’s rich forest ecosystems, offering travelers a unique experience that brings the outdoors inside.
Sustainability lies at the heart of the design, featuring biophilic elements that include breathtaking views of forested areas and plentiful natural lighting.
The terminal’s materials are sourced within a 500-kilometer radius, supporting local businesses while minimizing carbon emissions during construction.
The design prioritizes passenger efficiency, resulting in smooth flow while adhering to stringent environmental standards.
Portland International’s main terminal is a harmonious blend of innovative design, sustainability, and localized character, marking it as a leading contender for the Prix Versailles award in 2025.
**San Francisco International Airport, Terminal 1 (SFO/KSFO), United States**
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) ranks as one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States, functioning as a major hub for both domestic and international travel.
Terminal 1 underwent extensive renovations, reopening in 2024 and positioning itself as a strong candidate for the Prix Versailles due to its breathtaking design and environmentally sustainable features.
This terminal houses 25 new boarding gates and features innovative energy-efficient design elements, achieving an impressive reduction of carbon emissions by 79% and energy consumption by 59%.
Noteworthy is its dedication to art and culture, showcased by the SFO Museum—the only accredited museum located within an airport terminal worldwide.
The design also celebrates the LGBTQ+ community, incorporating elements that pay homage to the legacy of Harvey Milk’s commitment to inclusivity.
With its fusion of modern aesthetics, sustainability, and cultural relevance, San Francisco International’s Terminal 1 exemplifies how contemporary airports can serve as cultural landmarks within their communities.
In conclusion, the six nominated airport terminals for the 2025 Prix Versailles highlight a rich diversity of design philosophies, each mirroring unique cultural identities and architectural visions.
From Yantai’s coastal elegance to the sustainable innovations at Portland and San Francisco, these terminals establish a new standard for modern airports.
As air travel continues to transform, these impressive terminals remind us that airports are not merely transit points—they are gateways to new worlds and unique experiences.
Winners of the Prix Versailles are poised to inspire future airport designs, thereby redefining the public’s perception of air travel infrastructure.
image source from：travelandtourworld
