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Buffalo Airport Arrival/Departure Building

2007 Award of Excellence
Minnesota Council of Airports

The arrival/departure building that serves the Buffalo, Minnesota airport is the embodiment of the inviting qualities and values that characterize the entire community. The distinctive exterior of the building appears to be preparing for take-off, capturing the spirit and freedom of flight. The roof line beckons visitors skyward, producing just the uplifting feeling community leaders were striving for as they planned the facility.

Although relatively small at 1, 580 sq. ft., the facility was designed to be a multi-purpose community asset. Equipped with a timed security system that allows groups, such as the Girl Scouts, to have access for meetings, the building also includes a weather station, office space, pilot’s lounge, kitchenette, vending, and restrooms. The panoramic view of the runway offered by the large window area is softened by special window treatments in periods of bright light.

In a creative blending of aesthetic qualities and practical use, the tile floor includes a unique inlay that replicates the airport’s layout. Safety volunteers use the layout to train for responding to the many safety issues that can arise at an airport.

The Buffalo arrival/departure building is visionary, practical, and accessible: the values of a community with a bright future.