Set to become the world?s largest aviation hub, the new terminal building at Beijing Daxing International Airport by Zaha Hadid Architects is quickly taking shape in China, showing off an intricate skeleton reminiscent of decorative knotwork or lace. The design features five “limbs” that spread out from a central core, each one representing a key element of Chinese culture: silk, porcelain, farmlands, gardens, and tea. At this point in construction, however, the structure is most notable for its complex geometry, and it?ll almost be a shame to cover it up to complete the buildings.

Hadid?s eponymous firm, which continues to produce projects in the architect?s signature style after her death, describes the structural arrangement as ?flowing parabolic folds? under a vaulted roof, each of which reaches to the ground to provide support while also allowing natural light inside. This unusual layout draws inspiration from a traditional Chinese architectural principle in which interconnected spaces are always organized around a central courtyard.
Whereas most airport layouts tend to be frustratingly sprawling, often requiring passengers to walk or sprint long distances from one terminal to another just to catch a connecting flight, Hadid?s is intentionally compact. Arranging the gates around the building’s long outstretched arms minimizes the distance between them, and the central courtyard offers passengers a convenient place to seek out services and purchase a...