A design collaboration between Cox Architecture and ZHA, Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport is located in Sydney’s western Parkland City region. Together with Harbour City on the coast and River City centred around Parramatta, Parkland City will grow as Sydney’s third urban hub to accommodate the city’s western expansion in decades to come. The airport will be fundamental to serving Sydney’s growing population, with its metropolitan area set to reach nine million residents by 2040.

Western Sydney Airport is being constructed in stages; beginning with an initial stage for 10 million annual passengers by 2026, with further stages phased to meet future demand. ZHA/COX are providing an overarching design for the airport and guidelines for expansion, as well as designing the 1st phase of the new terminal precinct.

The ZHA/COX design incorporates sustainable design principles across its architecture & construction, integrating extensive use of daylight, natural ventilation and water recycling in a modular, energy-efficient design. Sensitive to its local context, the new terminal echoes the natural landscapes and cultural heritage of the region’s indigenous inhabitants.

Photo: Courtesy Western Sydney Airport