Gensler Dominates Prix de Versailles 2026 World Selection with Twin Airport Nominations
Global architecture powerhouse Gensler has achieved a historic milestone in the aviation sector. Two of the firm’s major recent completions have been named to the prestigious Prix de Versailles 2026 World Selection List, making Gensler the only architecture firm to be represented twice in the Aviation category this year.
The shortlisted entries—Pittsburgh International Airport’s new terminal and Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport—highlight Gensler’s continued dominance in reshaping modern infrastructure. Annually announced at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, the Prix de Versailles recognizes outstanding international architectural projects based on innovation, creativity, sustainability, and reflection of local heritage.
For airport authorities, structural engineers, and aviation planners tracking next-generation transit hubs, keeping pace with award-winning design is critical. Stay updated on the latest transport hubs, structural engineering breakthroughs, and infrastructure investments by exploring our aviation and commercial construction news portal.
Continuing a Legacy of Award-Winning Aviation Architecture
This double nomination builds on Gensler’s established track record of high-performance transit design. The firm previously secured the ultimate 2025 Prix de Versailles World Title in Aviation for its work on the Harvey Milk Terminal 1 at San Francisco International Airport.
Gensler Aviation Leader Ty Osbaugh noted that the two newly shortlisted projects serve as prime examples of how modern mega-airports can dramatically improve global passenger connections while simultaneously building stronger cultural and environmental links with their host communities. To explore the firm’s extensive global portfolio, visit the official Gensler website.
Inside the $1.7 Billion Pittsburgh International Airport Terminal
Completed in 2025, Pittsburgh International Airport’s new terminal is an $1.7 billion state-of-the-art facility designed by a collaborative joint venture consisting of Gensler, HDR, and luis vidal + architects.
The massive 811,000-square-foot terminal consolidates landside and airside functions under one roof. By eliminating the outdated automated people mover system, the design streamlines passenger flow and significantly slashes annual operating and maintenance costs for the airport authority.
Key Regional & Sustainable Design Elements:
- Rolling Roofline: A sweeping roof form explicitly inspired by the topography of the nearby Allegheny Mountains.
- Biophilic Engineering: Tree-like steel columns that support the expansive structure while evoking regional woodlands.
- Outdoor Integration: Open-air passenger terraces featuring native local plants.
- Green Building Standards: Advanced sustainable design features explicitly targeting a rigorous LEED Gold certification.
Transforming San Diego International Airport’s Terminal 1
Also completed in 2025, the San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 project represents a massive modernization effort. The initiative expanded the airport’s original 1960s-era terminal from a cramped 336,000 square feet to a sprawling, nearly 1 million-square-foot world-class facility.
The architecture draws heavily from San Diego’s iconic natural environment, capturing the specific textures, light, and geometry of the Southern California coastline, inland canyons, and bright skies.
Next-Gen Features and Carbon Reduction:
- Elevated Passenger Experience: Dramatically improved indoor circulation spaces and curated public art installations.
- Eco-Centric Infrastructure: Engineering choices aimed at heavily reducing the building’s overall embodied carbon.
- Clean Energy Operations: Designed to run on 100% carbon-free electricity.
- Environmental Targets: Active architectural planning targeting LEED Silver certification goals.
Shaping the Future of Global Transit Hubs
The Prix de Versailles evaluates projects across diverse commercial sectors, including airports, luxury hotels, museums, university campuses, and public facilities. By securing two slots on the 2026 shortlist, Gensler showcases how future-proofed airport design can blend carbon-free energy goals, high operational efficiency, and community-focused public spaces to elevate the modern travel experience.
