Tuesday, August 25, 2026 / Eugene
UO students drew an airport before the formal design starts
A 10-week architecture studio explored ideas for Eugene Airport's future Concourse C; the concepts are not the final design.
Before Eugene Airport picks the professional team for a future Concourse C expansion, University of Oregon architecture students spent 10 weeks drawing what that space could become. Airport staff opened planning documents and operational spaces to the studio, while three architects from Portland firm ZGF helped organize the work.
Airport design asks buildings to negotiate with passengers, luggage, aircraft, security and regulations all at once. The students evaluated the existing airport and produced concepts that might inform later work. Airport Director Cathryn Stephens told the Daily Emerald that the exercise offered a fresh set of eyes.
None of the student ideas is an approved feature. The airport still plans to select a professional architecture and engineering team, and its official sustainability page describes ongoing renovation goals rather than a frozen Concourse C blueprint.
Field notes
What changed: The Daily Emerald reported the completed UO design studio as Eugene Airport prepares for a future professional Concourse C process.
Why it matters: The collaboration gave students a real operating problem and gave airport staff ideas before the formal design work begins.
Who may be affected: UO architecture students, airport planners and travelers interested in the airport's long-term expansion.