Designing with Identity: Nelson Airport Terminal and the Future of Sustainable Infrastructure
The new Nelson Airport Terminal is a standout example of how public infrastructure can embody regional identity, environmental responsibility, and architectural innovation. Designed by Studio Pacific Architecture, the terminal showcases a seamless integration of mass timber technology, passive design strategies, and prefabrication. In this Q&A, we explore the core design principles, technical achievements, and long-term impact of the project on New Zealand’s approach to civic infrastructure.
What were the guiding principles behind the design of the new Nelson Airport Terminal, and how did these reflect the character of the Nelson Tasman region?
The design was guided by five key principles: safety and functionality; modularity and flexibility; sustainability and expression of timber technology; a lofty and transparent interior; and, critically, a strong sense of place. Regional identity was central to the project’s success. The terminal expresses the essence of the Nelson Tasman region through its use of locally sourced materials—particularly LVL timber from nearby forestry—and its connection to the surrounding landscape. The sculptural roof form draws inspiration from the nearby mountain ranges, while the warm timber interior provides a calming, grounded experience for travellers.
The roof structure is particularly striking—can you walk us through the inspiration and prefabrication process behind its folded timber form?
The folded roof form references the rhythm and silhouette of the surrounding Western Ranges. It is made up of 36 triangular LVL timber panels—both expressive and technically refined. These panels were prefabricated off-site in a nearby hangar using CNC precision-cut components. Prefabrication allowed for high quality control and tight tolerances, which were essential given the geometric complexity. The roof sections were transported via the airport taxiway and lifted into place during scheduled breaks in airport activity, ensuring that construction could proceed without disrupting operations.
How did the use of locally sourced timber influence both the environmental impact and the architectural expression of the terminal?
Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) from Nelson Pine Industries was used extensively throughout the building—in columns, beams, mullions, and roof diaphragm. This significantly reduced embodied carbon, with the 610m³ of timber storing approximately 300 tonnes of CO₂. Architecturally, the exposed LVL timber defines the interior character, delivering warmth, texture, and scale. It creates a calm, welcoming atmosphere for travellers while acting as a showcase for mass timber’s potential in large-scale public buildings.
Sustainability was clearly a key focus—how did strategies like natural ventilation and low embodied carbon materials shape the terminal’s design and construction?
Two primary strategies addressed sustainability: natural ventilation and a mass timber structural system with advanced seismic resilience. The building’s height, layout, and articulated roof enable a stack effect that supports passive ventilation. High-level clerestory windows release hot air, while low-level openings bring in cooler air. North-facing chevron-shaped canopies act as solar chimneys—enhancing airflow and providing shade. Combined with the extensive use of locally sourced LVL, these features reduce both operational and embodied energy, setting a precedent for climate-conscious airport design.
From a technical standpoint, how did prefabrication contribute to achieving both design complexity and construction efficiency across the terminal’s two stages?
Prefabrication was key to delivering the project’s architectural vision. The complex roof was assembled in large sections within a nearby hangar using CNC-cut kits of parts. This allowed for strict control over fabrication quality and accuracy—especially important given the minimal tolerances of the 36 triangular roof panels. Elements were transported and installed in precisely timed windows between live aircraft movements. Delivered in two stages to keep the airport operational, the phased approach allowed trades to refine workflows and mitigate construction risks. The result was a high-performance building completed efficiently without sacrificing design ambition.
Looking ahead, how do you see this project influencing future public infrastructure in New Zealand—particularly in terms of regional identity and climate-conscious design?
The Nelson Airport Terminal sets a powerful example for future public projects. It moves beyond generic infrastructure by expressing place, culture, and environmental responsibility. As the first LVL building to incorporate Tectonus Resilient Slip Friction Joints, it also advances seismic resilience in timber construction. The project combines passive design strategies, innovative prefabrication, and mass timber to deliver low-carbon, adaptable infrastructure. It provides a clear roadmap for how civic buildings can reflect local identity while meeting the urgent challenges of climate change and sustainability.
Acknowledgement:
This article features content based on the design and project insights of Studio Pacific Architecture, the lead architects of the Nelson Airport Terminal.
