This series offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the more-than-$2-billion San Francisco International Airport (SFO) Terminal 3 West Modernization project, a joint venture between TEF and Gensler, led by Turner Construction. Featuring the perspectives of TEF team members, each post will highlight personal experiences and insights into the complexity of aviation design, the deep collaboration that drives the project’s success, and the steadfast commitment to enhancing the experience of airport staff and millions of passengers that define SFO’s distinctive brand.
(Counter clockwise from top) The United Airlines building my father Orlando Sr. worked in 30 years ago; Orlando Sr. seated front row,second from the right, as an aviation storekeeper with the U.S. Navy; and my family visiting Orlando Sr. at work (that’s me beingcarried by a relative)
Bridging the Airport Together
One of the most exciting projects I’ve had the privilege to work on is the Courtyard 4 Connector (C4C), a vital addition to SFO’s evolving landscape. This new building serves two essential purposes: connection and infill. As part of the Gensler/TEF team, I have been deeply involved in its development since the summer of 2023 – from concept design through our current work on construction – with a focus on the ground floor/apron level.
In airport terms, “courtyard” refers to the spaces between terminals, and Courtyard 4 – which houses critical infrastructure elements, including a sanitary sewer pump station, service roads, and a security gate – is the last remaining gap in SFO’s central campus ring. Bridging the gap will create a more efficient, enclosed pathway linking Terminal 3 to the International Terminal, while elevating the passenger experience. C4C is also an example of achieving airport growth by infill, in this case gaining valuable operational space, within the airport’s existing footprint and physical constraints. With limited space available at airports like SFO, every square foot counts.
Ground level constraints and aerial of existing conditions at the apron level that contribute to the complexity of the project. Diagram by Gensler/TEF.
Building on an Active Airfield
The C4C sits just above the apron level—where aircrafts are serviced and maintained—which presents a complex web of unique challenges. The Gensler/TEF design had to account for stringent aviation requirements, vehicle access for baggage tugs and catering trucks, and a complex network of stakeholder priorities and safety protocols. To the east and west, the project connects two existing buildings at different elevations. To the north it is bound by a vehicle service road and airplane maneuvering into their gates, and to the south, there are existing air train tracks and a connector. Up above, the building is constrained by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) height limits, and below (on the apron level) we navigated around existing functions such as an access gate, road, and pump station.
I have led construction coordination calls before, but not at this scale, nor this specialized. For example, C4C is my first project working with an aviation planning consultant. I never knew I would geek out while reviewing vehicle maneuvering clearances and watching traffic flow animations. SFO’s standard of care for reviewing these areas for employee safety and operations is incredible. They never cease to think through the employee and passenger experience at every level.
Robust stakeholder engagement, depicted above in this team presentation of program and massing concepts, is essential to SFO’s progressive design build approach.
Working in this intricate, high-intensity environment requires seamless collaboration made possible by SFO’s progressive design-build approach. It empowers constant adaptation, rapid decision-making, and close communication between contractors and consultants to ensure that every detail, from structural coordination to wayfinding, aligns across disciplines to meet SFO’s ambitious timeline and commitment to design excellence.
Collaborating with team colleagues Li Yeh, seated to my right, and Sierra Goltz, in the SFO Big Room
A Personal and Professional Milestone
As of this writing, the C4C building is permitted and the piles and foundation are underway. It’s incredibly gratifying to see the two-dimensional geometric diagram from two and half years ago take shape in real space and time.
Passing by the United Airlines warehouse on my daily commute, where my father once worked, I’m reminded of how far I’ve come. Once a playground for me as a child, the airport is now a place where my professional practice contributes to something lasting. I’m incredibly proud to be part of shaping the gateway that has meant so much to my family, my career, and to the countless travelers passing through its doors every day.
