Airports are the first and last impression for visitors and their design should reflect the community they serve. The modern lodge-like experience serves as an extension of people’s vacations. Gunnison, known for its harsh winters, needed an airport that supports traveler well-being due to delays incurred by inclement weather. The outdated airport had high operational costs due to poor climate control and inefficiencies, making immediate upgrades essential.

The design for the new Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport minimized new construction and leveraged the existing building. With the goal of achieving net-zero energy, the all-electric terminal incorporates sustainable strategies like solar and geothermal systems to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. Upgrading the building envelope with an R-36 continuous insulation roof and R-20.3 + R-10 continuous insulation walls significantly improved thermal comfort and energy efficiency. The reconfiguration enhanced operational efficiency for staff and reduced passenger anxiety.

Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport is designed to accommodate passenger growth over the next 20 years. It captures the essence of the community, offering tranquil and dynamic experiences that extend the vacation feel. A new concession, the Living Room, provides unique, locally-owned food and beverage options, generating revenue and creating jobs. The investment in sustainable strategies, particularly solar and geothermal systems, will reduce operating expenses for Gunnison County for decades.