The airport, which will serve tourists, diplomats and employees of the Georgian parliament that has moved to Kutaisi, has a very modest area - only 4,000 m2 - but boasts a bright and memorable appearance. In the design of its facades, UNStudio uses snow-white and bright red colors, and the main element of the terminal's interior space is a spectacular structure in the form of a wooden umbrella.
The architectural and compositional design of the airport is based on the principle of comfortable separation of two passenger flows - departing and arriving, which is key for such objects. On the main façade, this idea found almost literal expression: the corner of the building is formed by a double helix, the "edges" of which come together, but never join. It is this element that is painted in scarlet, giving the new airport an expressiveness and recognition.
The interior layout of UNStudio airport was based on the principle of circular organization of all terminal services - from check-in and passport control to baggage claim. Such a scheme made it possible to place all the necessary functions in a very limited area and at the same time avoid a feeling of constraint. The new Kutaisi airport even found a place for a small gallery, which will host exhibitions of contemporary Georgian artists.
The center of the whole composition was a giant umbrella formed by honeycomb cells. Its base is made of transparent glass, which allows passengers to observe the airfield and admire the panorama of the Caucasus Mountains. Inside this volume is a patio for departing passengers.
Kutaisi Airport was built using a number of energy efficient technologies. In particular, this building uses low-pressure ventilation, a system for collecting "gray" water and a concrete core activation system that provides a comfortable temperature in the interior, which functions due to natural sources located on the site. The completely transparent outer walls of the complex fill the terminal space with natural light, and the roof configuration allows it to be protected from direct sunlight. Kutaisi Airport will also become one of the first public buildings in Georgia with its own system of separate collection and recycling of waste.
Now the renovated Kutaisi airport receives about 30 flights a week. It is expected that by spring this number will increase to at least 40, including regular direct flights from Europe.
