The new terminal building features a unique undulating double skin roof wrapped around the 1.5km long building, punctuated by thousands of hexagonal shaped skylights. These allow for natural daylight to filter through into the terminal, creating patterns of light and shadow that animate the interior surfaces. The honeycomb motif used in the roof is repeated internally, with the lighting effect enhanced by a largely white and reflective stainless steel palette. The beauty of the variable light levels created by the natural light from the skylights has been deliberately echoed in the design of the artificial lighting, smoothing the day to night transition.

As well as housing the lighting fixtures for the concourse, the void between the two skins of the roof has been lit internally to create a ?paper lantern effect? that lifts and frames the space at night. Several studies were conducted to assess how passengers would perceive the light in the different spaces, in particular the effects of light distraction and uniformity. In order to aid wayfinding and improve legibility of the space, key orientation features such as gates, furniture, and gate signage are all highlighted with intensities of light.

These clear and well-defined zones help passengers quickly process the large space and how it relates to them, allowing for a smooth and hassle-free journey. Links: - http://www.speirsandmajor.com/work/architecture/shenzhen_international_airport/