O’Hare Expansion: A New Era in Air Travel

The City of Chicago has officially launched construction on the next major phase of the O’Hare 21 modernization program. This is a large-scale redevelopment aimed at upgrading one of the world’s busiest airports. This O’Hare expansion phase, valued at $1.3 billion, focuses on building a brand-new satellite concourse, Concourse D.

The new facility will feature 19 gates for medium-sized aircraft. These can be reconfigured into nine gates for larger wide-body planes. Inside, the concourse will provide 30,000 sq ft of retail space, a 20,000-sq-ft passenger lounge, a 450-sq-ft children’s play area, and a 40-foot-tall glass atrium. This atrium connects all three levels of the building, designed to create a more open and welcoming passenger experience.

The new Concourse D façade at O’Hare Airport, featuring a sleek glass design that blends fluidity and transparency. — Exterior view of O’Hare’s Concourse D with a curved glass façade

Design Inspired by the Site’s Past

A distinctive element of the design is its tree-like structural columns. This is a nod to the apple orchards that once stood on the site before the airport’s construction. The project was designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in collaboration with Ross Barney Architects, Juan Gabriel Moreno Architects, and Arup. Meanwhile, construction is being carried out by a joint venture between Aecom Hunt, Clayco, and Bowa.

Project Timeline

Vertical construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, with Concourse D set to open to passengers by late 2028.

The 40-foot central atrium inside Concourse D, bringing in natural light and creating an open passenger environment. — Spacious 40-foot atrium at Concourse D with natural light and greenery

Future Expansion Plans

This is only the beginning of the broader O’Hare 21 plan, which also calls for the construction of Concourse E with 24 additional gates. Additionally, the plan includes the replacement of Terminal 2 with a new “O’Hare Global Terminal”, and the development of an underground tunnel to connect passengers, staff, and baggage handling between the airport’s new facilities.

Speaking on the project, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said:

“To maintain Chicago’s global leadership in the 21st century, we must continue investing in O’Hare, our region’s most powerful economic engine.”

Interior spaces of Concourse D, featuring tree-like structural columns and wooden details that add warmth. — Interior design of Concourse D at O’Hare with tree-like columns and wooden finishes

✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight

This article introduces the expansion of Chicago O’Hare International Airport as a key architectural shift within the O’Hare 21 plan. It is marked by tree-like structural columns and a 40-foot atrium uniting the concourse’s three levels. The visuals highlight transparency and openness, integrating retail, lounge, and leisure spaces into the airport core. Yet, questions arise regarding the integration of sustainability strategies because of the project’s anticipated energy demand. Nevertheless, the design contributes to a more dynamic passenger experience. It reinforces O’Hare’s identity as a global gateway for Chicago’s economic and cultural reach.

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