All winners

LAX Gateway

Honorable Mention in Architectural design

The LAX Gateway project transforms one of Los Angeles' most recognizable civic landmarks into a contemporary gateway that celebrates the city's identity while supporting one of the world's busiest airports. Major roadway reconstruction will replace the gateway features implemented 25 years ago. In spaces between the new roadways, the LAX Gateway concept reinterprets the original light pylons through wing-inspired, illuminated pylons using lightweight ETFE enclosures, steel frames, and programmable LED technology. The historic and abandoned 1961 Airport Traffic Control Tower is adaptively featured as a programmable media tower for public art, cultural storytelling, and wayfinding in coordination with the light pylons. The LAX monument sign is relocated to a safer and more accessible public destination along West Century Boulevard. A new, elevated Sepulveda Pedestrian Bridge restores the airport's only dedicated pedestrian connection to the city through an architectural expression using integrated lighting, sculptural forms, and public art. Together, these elements renew a beloved civic icon and demonstrate how transportation infrastructure can become meaningful public architecture.

Participant category: Small company (< 10 employees)

Company name: Paul Murdoch Architects

Country: United States

Location: Los Angeles, California

Client: Los Angeles World Airports

Team: Founded in 1991, Paul Murdoch Architects is dedicated to poetic exploration of sustainable architecture. Through visionary design and multidisciplinary collaboration, the firm creates meaningful civic places that enrich communities and environment.

Edition: 2026

Project status: Realised

Website: https://www.paulmurdocharchitects.com/

Photo credits: Paul Murdoch Architects
Photo credits: Paul Murdoch Architects
Photo credits: Paul Murdoch Architects
Photo credits: Paul Murdoch Architects
Photo credits: Paul Murdoch Architects
Photo credits: Paul Murdoch Architects