Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Terminal 2

The redevelopment of Terminal 2 at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) was driven by evolving travel patterns, shifts in carrier operations, and emerging technological advancements. These innovations aimed to better serve the region while honoring North Carolina’s rich aesthetic, academic, and economic heritage. The project also navigated the complex challenge of maintaining full airport operations throughout construction.

RDU’s Terminal 2 now features cutting-edge technology, common-use facilities, and a fully automated in-line baggage screening system to streamline security. The architecture seamlessly blends the state’s past and future, with the terminal’s rolling roofs echoing the Piedmont region’s hills, and curbside canopies inspired by the textile machinery that has shaped the local economy.

Inside, the dramatic wood lenticular trusses are a tribute to North Carolina’s renowned furniture and craft industries, as well as its wooded landscapes. These elegant trusses not only guide passengers intuitively through the space but also create a long-span, column-free structure that offers flexibility for future growth. Expansive glass curtainwalls along the terminal and concourses flood the interior with natural light, enhancing the passenger experience while connecting travelers to the surrounding environment.

Awards

• #9 Best Regional Airport in North America, Skytrax World Airport Awards, 2019
• #5 in Passenger Satisfaction, J.D. Power Study of North American Airports, 2019
• Award of Excellence (Commercial/Institutional), AIA Colorado, 2016
• Southeast Wood Design Award, WoodWorks, 2011
• Best Community Project ($1M or More), Drywall Northern California Drywall Contractors Association, 2010
• Honor Award, National Terrazzo and Mosaic Association, 2012