Silicon Valley’s reputation as the birthplace of world renowned technology permeates Fentress’ high-tech design for the SJC TAIP.
Phase I of the Terminal Area Improvement Program at Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC TAIP) included four transformative components:
- Construction of a new Terminal B to replace Terminal C
- System modernizations and aesthetic upgrades to Terminal A
- Addition of a consolidated rental car facility adjacent to Terminal B
- Extensive improvements to airport roadways and parking
Innovation in Silicon Valley’s Gateway
Dubbed the “most technologically advanced airport” by Airport World Magazine, SJC TAIP mirrors its role as the gateway to Silicon Valley. Reflecting the region’s innovative spirit, the terminal seamlessly integrates cutting-edge technologies with an extensive public art program. Through the Art + Technology initiative, Fentress Architects worked closely with airport operators to blend art and architecture, creating a space that inspires connection and creativity.
Human-Centered Design Recognized Nationwide
The design of SJC TAIP prioritizes human-centered experiences, a focus that has earned continuous accolades. For instance, American City Business Journals ranked SJC among the best-run airports in the U.S., citing criteria such as revenue per employee, ease of access, and speed of travel. Similarly, in 2017, J.D. Power named SJC the top medium-sized airport in the North American Airport Satisfaction Study.
Cost-Saving Design-Build Approach
Terminal B, completed in 2010, was a landmark project for U.S. airports. It was the largest to employ the design-build method, which significantly streamlined both cost and schedule. This innovative approach reduced the projected cost from $4.5 billion over 12 years to $1.3 billion within just four years.
A Model for Efficiency and Connectivity
SJC TAIP sets a high standard for efficiency and traveler satisfaction. By combining innovative design, advanced technology, and meaningful art, the airport offers an experience that is not only efficient but also emotionally engaging. These efforts continue to position SJC as a leader in the industry and a testament to the power of thoughtful, human-centered design.
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Awards + Accolades
The continuous garnering of top awards for SJC TAIP is a testament to the success of its human-centered, connection-driven design. In fact, American City Business Journals ranked it among the best-run airports in the country. That was based on nine criteria including revenue per employee, operating income, ease, access, and speed of travel. In 2017, J.D. Power and Associates gave SJC top billing in their North American Airport Satisfaction Study of medium airports. Furthermore, these awards mirror anecdotal evidence from travelers including talk-show host Jimmy Kimmel who tweeted: “Whomever runs @FlySJC San Jose airport should run the country. Nice people, quick baggage, even clean bathrooms!”
Design-Build
Terminal B was the largest airport project upon its completion in 2010 to be constructed in the United States using the design-build method. Indeed, airport operators chose design-build as a means to reduce the project budget and schedule from $4.5 billion completed within 12 years to $1.3 billion within four years. Halfway through construction, Bill Sherry, then-director of SJC, explained the benefits were even better than expected. He said “ … the success of the program can be summed up this way: When we started the program, we were $150 million out of budget. We are now [mid-construction] tracking about $140 million under budget.”
USGBC LEED-Silver Certified
The design and construction of the Terminal Area Improvement Program at SJC incorporates numerous sustainable strategies and practices. In fact, Terminal B was the first entirely new passenger terminal west of the Mississippi River to become LEED Silver Certified.
