Custom Steel Windows Shape Santa Barbara Terminal Design

by Jason Cramp | July 29, 2025 8:37 am

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At the Santa Barbara Municipal Airport in California, a new 6,689 m² (72,000 sf) terminal blends traditional style with high-performance metal detailing, thanks in part to custom steel windows and doors.

Designed by HNTB Architecture Inc., the project reflects the region’s Spanish Colonial Revival architecture with hallmark features including white stucco walls, red tile roofs, and decorative steel accents. Steel-framed windows were central to achieving the desired aesthetic, while meeting durability and environmental performance goals.

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Steel windows were installed throughout the concourse and gate areas, including large arched assemblies at the terminal entrance, the rear airfield-facing elevation, and the upper-level restaurant and departure lounge. These expansive openings frame panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Santa Ynez Mountains, and nearby nature reserve.

To preserve the open-air experience associated with the airport, the terminal includes a ground-floor public observation deck surrounded by custom steel wind screens. Natural light, cross-ventilation, and visual transparency between interior and exterior spaces were emphasized throughout the design.

Additional metal components included fire-rated windows and doors, wind screen systems, sliding baggage doors, and automatic sliding entrance systems. Recycled-content steel framing contributed to the building’s LEED Gold certification.

Source URL: https://www.metalarchitecture.com/news/daily-news/steel-windows-santa-barbara-terminal/

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