The City of Chicago has officially announced the start of construction on the new Concourse D at O'Hare International Airport, marking a significant milestone in the airport's ambitious expansion plans. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), this project represents the first building in the ORDNext expansion program as part of the airport's comprehensive Terminal Area Plan. The construction is scheduled for completion in late 2028, and the facility is expected to serve more than 80 million passengers annually once operational.
The design team for this groundbreaking project includes SOM as the lead architect, working alongside Ross Barney Architects, Juan Gabriel Moreno Architects, and engineering firm Arup. The concourse is being designed to function as one of the country's first domestic-international codeshare concourses, representing a major innovation in airport terminal design. This new facility is a crucial component of the broader O'Hare 21 capital program, which aims to transform the airport into a world-class transportation hub.
The architectural design of Concourse D draws inspiration from the natural landscape of the Midwest, creating an authentic sense of place for travelers. At the heart of the concourse lies a striking multi-level space featuring an oculus that floods the lower floors with natural daylight. This central area has been strategically designed to serve as the primary arrival point for passengers coming from the Concourse C bridge and the underground tunnel that will connect to the future O'Hare Global Terminal, providing clear orientation as travelers enter the space.
"Our vision for the new Concourse D considers the entire passenger journey from curb to gate," explained SOM Design Partner Scott Duncan. "From skylit spaces to orchard-inspired columns, every element contributes to a bright, easy-to-navigate environment designed to elevate the travel experience and leave a lasting impression of O'Hare." This passenger-centric approach reflects the airport's commitment to reimagining the travel experience for millions of annual visitors.
The floor plan of the concourse features soft, curved lines that take inspiration from the oxbow bends found in Midwestern rivers. These organic curves naturally define distinct zones throughout the space, creating dedicated areas for rest, dining, retail, and play. Landscaped sections further organize the concourse into various amenity zones, utilizing a carefully selected palette of colors, textures, and plantings that reflect the native landscapes of the Midwest region. An airline club lounge positioned on the upper floor will offer elevated views of the gate areas below.
The structural design of Concourse D incorporates an innovative system that minimizes vertical supports throughout the space. The design features branching columns that draw inspiration from the orchards that historically gave O'Hare Airport its name, creating a unique architectural element that also serves practical purposes. This structural approach significantly improves sightlines throughout the concourse and opens up expansive views across the entire space, enhancing the passenger experience and wayfinding.
Sustainability and climate considerations have been integral to the design process. The roof's carefully crafted contours and overhangs are specifically tuned to the Midwest climate to help regulate interior temperatures naturally. Additionally, the minimized structural system contributes to reduced embodied carbon, aligning with modern environmental standards and the airport's sustainability goals.
At the southern end of the concourse, designers have created a particularly impressive space featuring a bright, open area with a double-height glazed wall. This area offers expansive views of both the active airfield and the Chicago skyline beyond, creating a visually stunning environment for travelers. The space is flanked by six gate lounges and has been envisioned as a calm, light-filled retreat offering varied seating options to accommodate different passenger needs, including larger benches for groups, café-style tables for quick meals, and raised seating with counters that provide a comfortable workspace for business travelers.
This major construction project represents a significant investment in Chicago's transportation infrastructure and positions O'Hare International Airport for continued growth and modernization. The new Concourse D will not only enhance the passenger experience but also strengthen Chicago's position as a major aviation hub connecting domestic and international travelers. With its innovative design, sustainable features, and passenger-focused amenities, the concourse is expected to set new standards for airport terminal design across the United States.
