Functional Aesthetic: The Control Centre of Hong Kong International Airport

Achieving Efficiency and Elegance in Airport Operations

The Control Centre covers an area of 600 sq m within the Hong Kong International Airport and is divided into three main functional areas: the Daily Management & Operations (DMO) zone, the operation manager's office, and the Emergency Management (EM) zone. The design had to efficiently accommodate densely equipped technical spaces, minimize logistic interference from unexpected events, and streamline future operations. A conventional office layout would not suffice; a smart and dynamic solution was needed.

One of the standout features of the Control Centre is the unique ceiling and wall panels. The feature ceiling, along with the extruded aluminum wall panels, not only add a distinct architectural element to the space but also serve the purpose of optimizing audio and lighting conditions. Light fittings are strategically placed inside the dropped triangular flanks of the ceiling panels, allowing light to be reflected on the back of adjacent flanks. This ensures that users cannot see direct light sources, even when looking up at the projection screen in front of them. To enhance acoustics and prevent sound wave rebounding, custom-designed aluminum extruded louvre panels are used as wall and furniture front panels. Some of these panels are perforated and insulated to control noise levels and create the desired acoustic effect.

The Control Centre operates 24/7 and cannot afford temporary shutdowns for maintenance. To address this, a service gantry was constructed above the ceiling, allowing for easy access and maintenance without disrupting operations. Additionally, all air handling units of the air-conditioning systems were installed at the center of the hall, as there is no console desk located in that area under normal circumstances. The funnel-shaped ceiling also serves as the only access point for delivering equipment to the service gantry above.

The layout of the Control Centre was carefully designed to meet the specific needs of the Daily Management & Operations and Emergency Management zones. The DMO zone features a converging row seating arrangement, providing an unobstructed view of a large screen monitor that displays hundreds of images of the airport environment. This allows the DMO team, consisting of approximately 60 staff members from different departments, to closely monitor every aspect of the Terminal Building. The EM zone, on the other hand, is separated from the DMO zone to allow for flexible yet accurate control during crisis handling. Each workstation in the EM zone can function autonomously while also facilitating communication with the entire ad hoc EM group.

The Control Centre of Hong Kong International Airport was completed in July 2009 after months of meticulous planning and execution. The design successfully overcame the challenge of integrating technical requirements with architectural aesthetics. The result is a Control Centre that not only meets the functional demands of airport operations but also celebrates its orchestrated appeal. It is a testament to the power of design in enhancing efficiency and elegance in a vital aspect of airport management.

This design was recognized with the Iron A' Design Award in 2011, a prestigious accolade that celebrates well-designed, practical, and innovative creations. The Control Centre of Hong Kong International Airport exemplifies the integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, contributing to a better world.