Clark International Airport

Populous was the lead interior designer and retail planner for Clark International Airport’s new terminal in the Central Luzon region of the Philippines. Our design has created a space that meets modern international standards while giving the airport a strong sense of place, reflecting the local natural and cultural heritage. 

The province of Pampanga, in which Clark International Airport is situated, is home to spectacular natural scenery, from lava river beds to lush green mountains and teal blue volcanic lakes. Drawing inspiration from these incredible landscapes, our team selected a material palette to reflect this vibrancy, avoiding the neutral, beige palettes found in many airports around the world. 

The 100,000-square-metre building meets global standards in terms of operations, creating an airport the region can be truly proud of. Longevity was also crucial to the project’s success. The facility has built-in flexibility, so that it can adapt to future changes in retail, hospitality and security needs throughout the client’s 25-year concession to operate the airport, and beyond.

Populous placed the passenger journey at the heart of the interior design. Well-planned processing facilities limit queuing time and intuitive circulation makes it easier to navigate through the terminal. Reflecting the colour and energy of the local people, exhibitions by local artists and flexible event spaces provide a fresh experience each time passengers fly in and out. The event space is the epicentre of the building, and features lanterns from the local community suspended from the ceiling. This artwork creates a visual beacon which can be seen from almost anywhere in the departures area, drawing passengers through the retail space and creating a stimulating place to linger. 

By working thoughtfully with the facility operators, end users and key stakeholders, Populous has designed an innovative solution for Clark International Airport that is functional, experiential and authentic. The successful integration of the many visible and behind-the-scenes systems that impact airlines, operators, vendors and regulatory agencies, has created an airport that provides a fantastic passenger travel experience and a distinct spirit of place.