Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill has announced plans for a new satellite concourse at Chicago O’Hare International Airport along with Ross Barney Architects, Juan Gabriel Moreno Architects, and Arup. 

What will become the first new building in the airport’s largest expansion in 68 years features improved passenger experiences to compete with other modern airport designs. The firm won the commission for two new terminal structures at O’Hare, the country’s fourth-busiest airport, in 2019 and is expected to follow with the 1.3 million-square-foot total addition’s second half by 2030.

"We designed the new satellite concourse to create a frictionless experience for travelers, on par with the best airports in the world," said SOM Design Partner Scott Duncan. "The gate lounges feature column-free expanses for easy wayfinding, high ceilings to improve views and air circulation, and a daylighting strategy to help align the body's natural rhythms — all to make the experience of air travel more pleasurable."

Interior columns are eliminated via the design’s ‘tree-like’ structural support system. The rest of Concourse 1’s design will include shade-providing structural overhang and skylit waiting areas in consideration of the future Midwest climate, which is predicted to become more prone to hazardous extreme heat conditions over the next 30 years. 

An indoor garden-like oasis located at the atrium affords passengers arriving from the existing Concourse C a welcome respite for connections and departure. SOM stressed the project will include considerations for acoustic absorption throughout, adding that its site preparation work is already progressing under budget and on time for the previously announced completion date between 2027 and 2028.

"We are proud to join SOM with JGMA and Arup, in designing the new O’Hare International Airport Satellite Concourse 1, where every journey will begin and end amidst the hustle and bustle of global connectivity," Carol Ross Barney added. "We have always advocated for the value of well-designed public spaces, particularly in the context of a major international airport like O’Hare."

The airport recently completed work on the nearby Terminal 5 expansion after a five-year construction. Also in Chicago, SOM is currently at work on the replacement for 400 Lake Shore Drive in Streeterville.