Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX

As the first major improvement in 25 years, Fentress’ design recharges the outdated LAX with a convenient and comfortable passenger experience.

We embraced the challenge of transforming LAX’s existing cramped, windowless ‘passenger processor’ facility into a state-of-the-art, people-centered experience. Clad in aluminum that gleams in the sunlight, the design allows abundant natural light from clerestories and broad windows. Its form draws from the Pacific Ocean’s overlapping waves and serves as an iconic gesture of welcome. Departing passengers experience the dynamic and technologically futuristic ‘Great Hall,’ which redefines the experience of travel between security and boarding. 

As the largest public works project in Los Angeles’ history, the new Tom Bradley International Terminal is also the most complex of the airport typology yet devised, capable of handling 65 million passengers a year. Renovation and construction occurred continually while the terminal was fully operational, making the project one of the most complex among US airports. It was also the first project at LAX to incorporate LEED design.

The architecture unifies the airport and pays homage to the 1969 Theme Building’s parabolic arches. California Home and Design hailed the LAX New Master Plan as one of the “Top Ten Most Promising Future Projects of Architecture,” and Forbes says “the newly redesigned building is gorgeous.” 

LEED Gold