Client

Horry County Department of Airports (Myrtle Beach International Airport)

Location

Myrtle Beach, SC

Expertise

Aviation

Services

Architecture, Interior Design, Experiential Design & Wayfinding, Engineering

As domestic air travel continues its rapid growth post-pandemic, Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) identified a need to renovate and expand its existing buildings and associated infrastructure to accommodate current and future growth. As a popular travel destination, airport leadership realized the need to maintain a high level of customer service while also showcasing the local community and greater region. Gresham Smith helped realize this vision by expanding and modernizing the existing building’s 12 gate concourses into an 18 gate terminal building, developing a design solution that improves the airport and acts as a modern gateway for visitors and locals alike.

50k
square feet
6
jetbridge gates
7
aircraft positions

Designing for the Vision

Since its opening in 1996, MYR has undergone a series of renovations and expansions. To keep pace with passenger volumes, the airport placed priority on implementing its 20-year master plan. To create additional space, we added an expansion to the end of Concourse A to accommodate six new gates, with potential for a seventh gate.

Go behind the design with Project Manager Brad Sucher!

Multiplying Amenities

Creating a destination at the end of Concourse A, passengers find spacious hold rooms with panoramic views of the airfield while they await their plane. The combination of high ceilings and double-height curtainwall draws attention to a central seating area with clerestory windows to bring in additional natural light. The seating area features custom planters with integrated seating, offering passengers a place to relax before boarding their flight.

To accommodate a predominantly glass façade, electrochromic glazing uses smart technology to adjust tint levels in response to solar exposure. This system enhances traveler comfort by protecting the space from glare and better regulates the building’s energy performance by reducing heat throughout the day.

The expansion also includes larger restrooms, conveniently situated near new retail, food, and beverage concessions. The premium design will serve as a model for future restroom renovations throughout the terminal for this project and future upgrades.

Sustainability Results at MYR

  • 70% reduction in lighting power consumption
  • 45% reduction in cooling energy consumption
  • 30% reduction in heating energy consumption
  • 35% reduction in overall energy consumption

A Revitalized Aesthetic

The interior design creates a fresh, timeless look by introducing modern, durable finishes throughout the entire terminal, including terrazzo throughout the main circulation areas and glass wall cladding around the restrooms. The central planters house a combination of live plants and preserved palms to bring the feel of South Carolina’s natural environment into the space.

Upgrades to the Exiting Space

As part of this project, the existing terminal received several functional improvements, including updates to the wayfinding system, which included directional signage and flight information displays. Existing holdrooms received new powered seating, countertop charging tables and a variety of lounge furniture, which provide more comfortable options for travelers and better facilitate interaction. Additional IT accommodations provide flexibility for future growth.