In 2004 architect Ole B Larsen was invited by the Sultan to design the new Muscat International airport for what would eventually be a State-funded project. It became a joint venture project, where Larsen A&CE was responsible for all the architectural and master planning work, whilst Cowi A/S from Denmark was responsible for the engineering and airport planning.
The Muscat and Salalah International Airports have an inspired identity
The Muscat and Salalah International Airports in Oman were designed by a team of Sri Lankan architects under the vision of Scandinavian Architect Ole B Larsen and Sri Lankan Architect Athula Ranasinghe. The project represents traditions, heritage and push for modernity.
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- 14 May 2018
- Muscat and Salalah
- Cowi – Larsen, A&CE
- Airport
- 2018
Architects Ole B Larsen and Athula Ranasinghe strived to develop a design that reflected the culture of Oman, the way of life of the people and the new vision for advancement. Seashells were the source of inspiration. been enhanced over the eight-year long design phase, the elegant curve inspired by the shell remains. Though the design has the same inspiration was eventually translated to the Salalah International Airport as well, the second international airport of the sultanate.
For the Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower, the architects conducted extensive research to ensure it was iconic, symbolic and unique. nspired from the date palm leaves, the ATC (93m) of the Muscat Airport is unquestionably iconic with an enamelling finish. Indeed, the date palm features within the airport, add character to the spaces to highlight the identity of the country. The dynamic form of Salalah International Airport, inspired by a seashell, rests upon a solid base, comprising heavy column plinths and buttress walls and is set within a distinctive landscape of flame and frankincense trees and coconut palms.