Dutch firm UNStudio has unveiled plans for a "user-oriented" extension to its Kutaisi International Airport terminal in Georgia, featuring a rooftop plaza. 
The Ben van Berkel-led firm completed the terminal building in 2013. Just four years later, the Amsterdam-based studio was asked to design a large extension, to cater to the airport's rapidly growing number of passengers.
Passengers using the low-cost-airline airport increased from 12,915 per year in 2012 to more than 300,000 in 2016. It is expected to reach a capacity of close to 1,000,000 passengers by 2020.

The new central passenger hall will echo the departure hall's umbrella-like ceiling structure. A timber staircase will gradually bring passengers up to a higher level, where they will find food and beverage outlets. This space will extend out onto the building's roof, creating a huge elevated plaza.
Wrapped by stepped seating, this space will act as a green recreational hub and a waiting area for early arrivals, visitors and their families. It will split the length of the terminal and, like the distinctive red corner of the original terminal building, will create another moment of orientation.
The aim is for the new terminal to also function as an events space, while the outdoor plaza could be used for advertisement purposes.
"By enhancing the transparency and openness of the departure, central and arrival halls, it became possible to provide a pleasant and comfortable travel experience,&qu...