By fiveten were invited to participate in a competition for the expansion of the Benina International Airport in Libya. The brief called for an additional terminal structure on the site adjacent to the existing builing with plans for potential future expansions.

As a point of departure, the project was approached with an intention to provide optimal flexibility in both spatial and structural organizations. To this end, by fiveten developed an additive modular structural system. Prefabricated out of steel, the modular units are combined to form an arch that is then topped with a precast concrete slab.

The modular system performs as a shell, independent from the functions beneath it, allowing for the variation of the different programmatic requirements at any given time. This separation of structural system and spatial organization offers flexibility to accommodate the new and different functions that will come with the terminal expansions during the upcoming years.

Structurally, due to the flexibility of the modular system, the building has the capacity to expand in both X and Y directions freely in order to adapt to the particularities of the site. Formally, the building is always open for growth, yet functional at any given phase.

The precast concrete roof element features a circular cutout in the center, oriented in such a way as to allow light in, while also blocking direct sunlight as to keep the building cool. The diffused light creates a well-lit interior while the slab’s thick profile functions as a thermal insulator. The concrete element can also take various forms to cater for the needs of the space below it, acting as either an enclosure, a shading device, and even an open space for exterior courtyards.

• Location: Benina, Libya
• Program: Airport Terminal
• Year: 2019
• Category: Architecture
• Team: Dana Muhsen, Omar Bacho