Architectural Alliance International was contacted by Cheyenne Regional Airport’s engineering firm Short, Elliot and Hendrickson (SEH), for the development of design ideas for the proposed terminal. The firm completed a Terminal Feasibility Study for the airport in partnership with SEH Engineers, and presented members of the Airport Board with conceptual design ideas.
According to Architectural Alliance, the users of the new facility should be able to gain a sense of place or character, and illustrate the culture of the community through the use of regional materials, local artists, and design. The firm has considered the topography of Cheyenne, which they considered very linear, with man-made structures such as the rail road and snow fencing, along with the western elements of the community.
According to the design firm, the context of the region including the sky, location and forms that are iconic for inspiration will be used as the basis for the design. Examples given were the use of porches in the design of the older buildings and residences in Cheyenne inspiring the use of a porch-like design for identification of the front doors of the proposed building. The prevalence of linear structures such as snow fence and rail road ties could be used to design screening to reduce the sunlight entering into the terminal. The firm is also considering designs which will make the building sustainable and energy-efficient.
One particular item of concern regarding the design is whether the terminal should be one or two storey. Multiple options were given to the board regarding the advantages of one or two storey buildings, and some layout conceptual designs. The board is interested in constructing a second storey to the terminal as well as looking into at least a full or partial basement.
The airport authority has announced that the designs currently proposed are conceptual, and a public meeting will be held prior to the approval of the terminal design which will encourage public participation.
