Transforming Sustainability and Well-Being in Public Transportation Facilities: The Sustainable Retrofit of an International Airport
Category: Oral Presentation
Author(s): Kaylee Redlin
Presenter(s): Kaylee Redlin
Mentors(s): Jain Kwon, Laura Cole
The Orlando International Airport Retrofit Project rethinks the conventional construction and operation of transportation facilities. Currently, many large transit hubs around the country lack progress in sustainability initiatives and fall short in user-centric design strategies. By assessing the site’s current conditions, analyzing user needs, and identifying existing challenges, the project develops key solutions related to sustainability and user-centric design. These solutions improve building efficiencies, reduce accessibility barriers, and enhance user satisfaction for the diverse occupants that an international airport services. Given the prevalence of already built public transportation facilities, retrofits that prioritize sustainability are important to consider. This project explores renewable energy and resource recycling to initiate a shift from building systems and materials that currently have high carbon emissions. By integrating more eco-conscious solutions into our built environment, we will begin to see a reduction of carbon emission as well as an improvement in the physical and mental well-being of all users. The project also implements extensive evidence-based design solutions surrounding wayfinding and accessibility. The integration of legible signage and personal technological applications will help create a structured wayfinding network that is personalized to the unique needs of every user. Comprehensive wayfinding plays a crucial role in an airport setting and helps to reduce user stress by providing a setting that encourages efficient and effortless travel. By creating an environmentally conscious and user-centric space, this project can create precedent for more equitable and inclusive experiences in public transportation hubs.