O’Hare Terminal 5 Expansion

2023

Dec 1

WHO

Architects: Muller2 & HOK
Installer: Christopher Glass & Aluminum

  
WHERE & WHEN

Chicago, IL · 
Americas

Completed · 2022

WHAT & HOW

Airport · New Build
Headhouse & concourse facades
40k sq. ft. of VS1 walls; 40% "smart glass"

Innovation Glass is proud that VS1 was selected for a significant scope of the O'Hare Terminal 5 Expansion.

VS1 will be utilized for roughly 40,000 square feet of facade on the terminal's new head house and along the east concourse. Approximately 40% of the facade utilizies electrochromic (smart glass) technology. The VS1 system is well suited to provide complete access to the electrical wiring at the smart glass edges, which greatly improves ease of installation and post-construction wire maintenance.

FROM THE ARCHITECT HOK

❝The wing-shaped extension of Terminal 5 at O’Hare International Airport, bathed in natural light, is set to become the gateway to Chicago for many travelers. Its open design offers sweeping views of the aircraft and cityscape, providing an uplifting welcome to the city.

Incorporating natural and circadian lighting reduces visual noise and sensory overload, with quieter, energy-saving mechanical systems further enhancing the calming effect. The project, which features sustainable design elements and wellness features such as high-performance glass and durable, eco-friendly materials, is on track to achieve LEED Silver certification.❞

The 350,000 sq. ft. expansion is designed by a team led by Muller & Muller and HOK, with whom we look forward to continuing the collaboration in pursuit of excellent architecture. We worked with building envelope contractor Christopher Glass & Aluminum to bring this exciting project to life.

This project is part of the larger “O’Hare 21” modernization effort, which began in 2017 with significant renovations to Terminal 3. This phase added 10 gates to the terminal.

Assisting with schematic design until the curtain wall was installed, Franz was always quick to offer design assistance. He brought with him not only his expertise, but also his positive attitude and a collaborative mindset. He is the kind of person that makes you excited to work through the tough details and I enjoyed our in-person work sessions.