Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) has unveiled its eighth collaboration with CLB Architects, revealing a transformative renovation and expansion project in the heart of Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming.
Positioned as the sole U.S. airport within the natural surroundings, the 6,968-m2 (75,000-sf) terminal redesign blends the concepts of “home” and “travel hub,” offering a convergence of sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic allure.
The project’s initial phase focused on reimagining a 70s timber structure, optimizing the layout for modern travelers. Recent additions include a restaurant/bar, expanded holding area, two gates, a gift shop, and an updated baggage claim area with a snack bar/retail, completing the redesign.
Architect Kevin Burke led the design ethos, emphasizing integration with the natural environment through open floor plans, clear sight corridors, and extensive glazing that captures breathtaking views of the Teton Mountain range.
The airport maximizes height and area limits imposed by the national park, featuring Douglas fir glue-laminated beams, rough-hewn log columns, and lightweight steel elements.
The sustainable focus of the project is noteworthy, operating within the constraints of the Greater Yellowstone area’s extreme climate. Triple-glazed windows, overhangs, and a white roofing membrane manage solar exposure. An open-loop geothermal system efficiently exhausts waste heat and LED lighting enhances energy efficiency.
The interior materials echo the rugged beauty of the surroundings, with polished concrete floors, warm timber elements, and natural stone finishes. The airport accommodates more than 400,000 travelers annually, offering various seating options, strategically oriented for panoramic views of the Tetons.
