Case Study

Kraków-Balice Airport
Architect
APA Czech Duliński Wróbel Architects
Client
International Airport in Kraków
Localisation

Kapitana Mieczysława Medweckiego 1 Balice Poland

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PROJECT DESCRIPTION

John Paul II International Airport Kraków-Balice, located 11 km from Kraków city center, underwent a major expansion. In 2016, a new passenger terminal was opened, featuring a striking prism-shaped glass façade that has become the airport’s visual hallmark. The building was designed by APA Czech Duliński Wróbel Architects to reflect both functionality and bold architectural expression.

CHALLENGES

One of the main challenges was the strong southern sun exposure, leading to unwanted heat gain. The airport needed innovative solutions to ensure passenger comfort while minimizing energy consumption. It was also crucial to maintain a visually coherent design and meet high environmental standards.

SOLUTIONS APPLIED

The façade was equipped with COOL-LITE® XTREME 60/28 solar control glass by Saint-Gobain, which combines high light transmission with excellent thermal insulation. This allowed maximum use of natural daylight while preventing overheating. The use of pre-patinated greenish copper cladding further strengthened the building’s architectural identity.

Gallery

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