Airport City Amsterdam Schiphol
Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is a good example of a successful implementation of the airport city concept. It provides a dynamic environment for business, retail, logistics and entertainment.

NACO, together with Benthem Crouwel Architects, has assisted the airport with the development of the master plans that guided the airport's development. Benthem Crouwel and NACO are responsible for the landside urban design, including the office development, the terminal complex and piers.

Key aspects that characterise the airport include:

"ó    one roof terminal concept; boarding, arriving and transferring takes place under one roof;

"ó    functional terminal lay-out to allow for efficient airport processes (passengers, goods, baggage);

"ó    good public transport connections;

"ó    implementation of the 'Run-Fun and Surprise' concept.

A good example of the implementation of the latter concept is the present Departure Lounge 1. Renovation and expansion was completed in 2005 and it now offers a wide variety of shops and restaurants set up around a central square to provide passengers with an overall view of the facility. The Run-Fun and Surprise concept is based on the amount of time passengers can spend in a particular area.