Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport has brought global recognition to India by winning the International Architecture Award 2025 in the Transport category. The newly constructed Terminal 2 (T2), inspired by the culture and biodiversity of Assam, has been honoured alongside just six other airports worldwide for its architectural brilliance and sustainable design.
Presented annually by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design, in collaboration with The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies and Metropolitan Arts Press, Ltd., the award celebrates excellence in architecture and urban planning.
A Modern Gateway to Northeast India
Guwahati International Airport serves as the primary aviation hub of Northeast India, connecting the region to major domestic and international destinations. The new T2 is part of an ambitious redevelopment plan aimed at modernising infrastructure, enhancing passenger comfort, and meeting the growing travel demand.
Architecture Rooted in Nature and Culture
The award-winning design draws inspiration from the resilience of bamboo and the elegance of the foxtail orchid, two symbols of Northeast India’s natural beauty. Its columns resemble tea-trunks, while the curved rooftop creates a layered, organic form, giving the terminal an earthy yet futuristic appearance.
Designed by architectural firm NUDES, led by Nuru Karim with a talented design team, the terminal blends sustainability with soul. From open-air spaces to lush greenery, it offers passengers an immersive experience that feels more like a biodiversity park than an airport.
Key Sustainable Features of T2
The terminal’s design philosophy goes beyond aesthetics, incorporating:
- Open-plan layouts and skylights to maximise natural light and reduce energy consumption
- Indoor gardens and vertical green walls for improved air quality
- An “arrival forest” with ambient skylighting to create a serene transition from runway to terminal
- Capacity to handle 10 million passengers annually with enhanced baggage systems and passenger flow management
The interior features wooden-style walkways, ample open space, and abundant natural lighting to create a calm, welcoming environment for travellers. The open-air concept, combined with modern facilities, ensures a smooth travel experience while keeping environmental impact low.
With this global recognition, Guwahati International Airport not only strengthens its position as a modern aviation hub but also sets a benchmark for sustainable airport design in India.
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