Awards
American Institute of Architects CT | 2012
Business Architecture Award
American Institute of Architect CT | 2010
Award for Design Excellence
Volo Aviation
This 40,000 sf facility was designed to house privately-owned commuter jets and provide a Fixed Base of Operations (FBO for a jet-leasing company. The design intent was to create an experience for travelers, which reinforced the company's branded identity. The Vector for Visionaries.
The new ultra-efficient hangar with a clear span of 270 feet is capable of housing up to ten jets with a 215 foot wide mechanically operated door. The program includes a 5,000 sf office component on a mezzanine level and mechanical support spaces at grade. The highly reflective epoxy floor of the hn=anger shows off the aircraft to great advantage, while celebrating the operating room conditions that surround the maintenance of the jet fleet.
The 3,000 sf FBO component includes a reception area and lounges for passengers, pilots and crew, as well as flight support services. A sculptural composition of angled backlit translucent walls define the public spaces in the building, initiating the transportation process by beckoning the travelers to explore, leave the ordinary, and prepare for flight. A calibrated LED lighting program creates even more kinetic energy by providing an ever-changing lighting scheme on a subtle level. Red, blue, magenta and purple combine to recall scenes from dawn until dusk. The result is an unusual and memorable interaction between people and building.
The wing-like metal roof at the entry supported by skewed columns set the tone for the experience that lies within. Exterior materials include aluminum, stainless steel, corrugated metal and translucent polycarbonate insulating wall panels. The latter allows natural light to filter into the offices and mechanical support spaces, sharply reducing the electrical requirements. The glowing walls act as a beacon for air travelers and provide an intriguing behind-the scenes view of the building's interior workings at night from the tarmac.