San Francisco International Airport Courtyard 3 Connector

This new six-story office building and pre- and post- security connector links Terminals 2 and 3 at San Francisco International Airport, enhancing the experiences of travelers and employees.

The office building brings together airport executives previously located in multiple areas, allowing SFO to lease those vacated spaces to tenants. The office building also includes an integrated operations center and flexible lounge space that will be modified into office space and leased to airlines in the future. SFO’s executive staff occupy the top two floors, with an outdoor view deck overlooking nearby runways.

The team designed the office building to meet the requirements of an essential services building to ensure that the integrated operations center can continue to function after a significant seismic event.

The pre- and post-connectors allow travelers to connect between terminals without having to repeat the security process. The pre-security connector includes a sculpture and seating. The post-security connector houses the Kadish Gallery showcasing curated photography exhibits and three commissioned glass installations inspired by San Francisco.

The flexible design allows for the future addition of a moving walkway and right-of-way for a potential baggage handling service connection between Terminals 2 and 3. The office building design includes potential space for a future lounge on the third level.

The Courtyard 3 Connector is net zero ready and on track to achieve LEED Gold certification. Dynamic glazing on the facade decreases glare and heat inside the building while lowering its energy consumption. Green walls and plants in the office space support connections to nature. The office component is WELL pre-certified and is on track to achieve WELL certification.

The Progressive Design-Build delivery method included HOK as the design architect and architect of record in a joint venture with MEI Architects and Hensel Phelps as the general contractor.

The project required the demolition of the existing pre-security connector and critical airport space located within the new building’s footprint. Careful phasing ensured that the airport continued to operate without disruptions during construction.