Charleston County Aviation Authority
Parking Garage
This design for Charleston International Airport reimagines the arrival experience to create a seamless, intuitive journey that supports future growth while reflecting the character of Charleston.
LOCATION Charleston, SC
COMPLETED 2020
SIZE 989,536 SF
PHOTOGRAPHER Matt Silk
Enhancing the Arrival Experience
Developed for the Charleston County Aviation Authority, the design envisions a comprehensive transformation of the airport entry sequence through a new parking garage, surface parking areas, roadway improvements, and enhanced pedestrian connections. Together, these elements are designed to simplify the traveler experience from arrival to departure, creating a clear sense of arrival while improving circulation, convenience, and accessibility.
The layout supports intuitive navigation by helping passengers identify the appropriate travel lane, locate available parking, and reach the terminal through direct, comfortable pedestrian routes. The return journey is equally streamlined, with clear paths back to vehicles and efficient exit and payment processes. Throughout the design, pedestrian safety, ease of use, and traveler comfort remain central priorities.
Design Details
The design draws inspiration from Charleston’s architectural character through a materials palette, scale, and form that emphasize natural, human-scaled elements. From a well-lit and visually appealing garage environment to thoughtfully landscaped pedestrian routes, every aspect of the experience is intended to strengthen the connection between the city and the airport while creating a welcoming gateway for travelers.
Integrated technology supports a more convenient and less stressful travel experience. Clear signage, graphics, and parking guidance systems assist passengers throughout their journey, while creative lighting features at stairwells highlight vertical circulation and improve wayfinding. These enhancements contribute to an environment that is easy to navigate, comfortable to use, and adaptable to future growth.
By combining thoughtful planning, intuitive circulation, and context-sensitive design, the project supports increased parking demand and airport capacity while preserving the approachable, user-friendly character that defines the CHS experience.
