For the second consecutive year, a Californian airport terminal has been declared the most beautiful on the planet. San Francisco International Airport's (SFO) Harvey Milk Terminal 1 has once again secured the top global honour at the prestigious Prix Versailles architecture awards.
A Terminal of Firsts and Sustainability
The jury, which presents the award in association with UNESCO, recognised the terminal for its outstanding achievements in four key areas: sustainability and innovation, cultural significance, passenger experience, and architectural excellence. The recognition follows a multi-billion dollar renovation completed in 2024, which delivered remarkable environmental results.
Following this transformation, Harvey Milk Terminal 1 achieved a 79 per cent reduction in its carbon footprint and a 59 per cent decrease in energy usage. It also holds the historic distinction of being the world's first airport terminal named after an LGBTQ+ leader, honouring civil rights pioneer Harvey Milk with a permanent exhibition.
Design Features for a Modern Passenger
The terminal's design, led by architecture firm Gensler, was praised as an 'ambitious transformation' that sets a new global benchmark. It prioritises passenger well-being and efficiency through several innovative features:
- An abundance of natural light on every level.
- Gender-neutral bathroom facilities.
- 'Quiet terminal' features that replace overhead announcements with visual displays.
- A mezzanine-level security checkpoint, a yoga room, and self-serve baggage checking.
- Over 30 pieces of artwork reflecting the Bay Area's heritage.
The terminal, which opened in phases between July 2019 and June 2024, serves as a major hub for over 50 million passengers annually.
Global Recognition for Other Airports
While SFO took the top global prize, six other airports were commended in the 2026 Prix Versailles list. Notable winners included:
Portland International's Main Terminal in the United States for its exterior design. In France, Marseille Provence Terminal 1 was hailed for interior design, and Roland Garros Airport Arrivals Terminal was noted as the world's first tropical bioclimatic airport structure.
In East Asia, China's Yantai Penglai International Airport Terminal 2 was praised for its coastal design, and Japan's Kansai International Airport Terminal 1 was celebrated for architectural excellence.
In a press release, SFO Airport Director Mike Nakornkhet said: 'We are truly honoured to be named the top airport in the world by Prix Versailles. Being the first airport terminal in the world named for an LGBTQ+ leader only enhances the significance of this recognition.'
This award underscores a growing trend where airport design is evaluated not just on function, but on its environmental credentials, cultural impact, and the quality of experience it offers to the millions of passengers who pass through its gates each year.
