Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport has been named among the World’s Most Beautiful Airports by the Prix Versailles. This is in recognition of its architectural design, sustainability features and integration with the surrounding region.
The praise follows the completion of a major redevelopment programme at the airport, which included a new terminal building alongside upgrades to road access, parking facilities and multimodal transport connections.
Designed by Gensler, the terminal was conceived as a civic gateway that reflects San Diego’s climate, culture and coastal setting while supporting the operational demands of one of the US’s busiest airports.
A central feature of the project is a 244-metre curved glass façade, developed in collaboration with artist and architect James Carpenter. The façade is designed to maximise natural daylight within the terminal while reducing heat gain and glare, creating bright interior spaces that draw inspiration from San Diego’s waterfront promenades and public gardens.
The architectural layout has been designed to provide a clear and intuitive journey for passengers, guiding travellers from the terminal entrance through to the boarding gates. The building’s landside and airside functions have been integrated to create a seamless passenger experience.
The redevelopment also incorporated structural innovations, including a system that enabled the removal of columns from the ticketing hall. This approach has created larger open spaces while contributing to a reported 30% reduction in the building’s carbon footprint.
Passenger amenities form another key aspect of the project. Outdoor terraces overlooking San Diego Bay, flexible lounge areas and concessions featuring local businesses have been incorporated throughout the terminal to enhance comfort and strengthen the connection between the airport and the surrounding community.
The Prix Versailles awards programme recognises architecture and design projects that combine aesthetic quality with social, cultural and environmental considerations. San Diego International Airport’s Terminal 1 joins a select group of airports acknowledged for their contribution to contemporary airport design.
Other airports included on the 2026 Prix Versailles list are Terminal 3 at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in China, Terminal 3 at Frankfurt Airport in Germany, Pittsburgh International Airport in the US, Terminal 1 at Navi Mumbai International Airport in India, Techo International Airport in Cambodia and Guwahati International Airport in India.
