For the first time in over 50 years, Australia is getting a new major airport. The Western Sydney International Airport will be opening in late 2026 but the first pictures of the now-completed building have already been shared.
The airport, which is situated in Sydney’s Badgerys Creek neighbourhood, is set to become the city’s second-biggest airport. Once operational, it will be open 24 hours per day, boosting the neighbourhood’s economy and providing a future-proof passenger experience.
“This is a rare opportunity to define the next generation of airport design on a global stage. Together with Cox Architecture, we created a design that meets the highest standards of architectural innovation, passenger experience and operational efficiency. What makes this terminal extraordinary is its blend of human-scaled design and international ambition. It is grounded in its setting, and yet globally competitive,” said Zaha Hadid Architects director Cristiano Ceccato.
The plans for the building were conceived by Cox Architecture and Zaha Hadid Architects, while the design and delivery were carried out by Woods Bagot in collaboration with construction company Multiplex. Dharug Custodians and First Nations advisor Murrawin were consulted during the design process in order to incorporate local narratives and values.
A building inspired by its surroundings
The plans for the building were directly inspired by the Australian sunlight, which is let in by the glazed entrance facade. Local nature, too, played a role in the design, with the horizontal structure and its soft curves being reminiscent of the Cumberland Plain savannah region located west of Sydney. The undulating ceiling plays with the light inside and should remind travellers of eucalyptus bark. Overall, this resulted in a warm-hued complex where natural materials play a key role.
“The great Australian light is one of the defining qualities of the Australian experience, and it has been central to our design thinking. The way light filters through the terminal shapes how people move, orient and feel, creating a sense of calm, clarity and connection. For many, this space marks their very first encounter with Australia, and we wanted that experience to feel unmistakably grounded in place,” stated Cox Architecture principal David Holm.
Thanks to the inventive design, not only does the design of the building communicate actively with the surroundings, but it was also built in a modular way, allowing it to be easily extended in the future when needed. Thanks to its passive ventilation, water recycling, and energy-efficient systems, the terminal already earned a five-star Green Star rating, showing its sustainable approach.
Over the coming year, the building will be completed with its final fit-outs of the terminal’s retail precinct and airline lounges.
