Memphis International Airport Concourse B Modernization Receives AIA Memphis Merit Award

Honored at the AIA Memphis 2025 Celebration of Architecture Gala, this recognition reflects a tremendous team effort. Since 2013, Alliiance has worked in close partnership with UrbanARCH to design a world-class passenger experience defined by state-of-the-art amenities, character, and convenience expressed through an uplifting and regionally sensitive design.

The $245 million concourse modernization renovated nearly two-thirds of MEM’s primary concourse, creating 23 new gates. The project exemplifies flexible planning, technology, and innovative approaches to construction and phasing. Large portions of the lower-level operational areas were maintained while a new superstructure was built above, creating a wider concourse with open sightlines, high volumes, and uninhibited circulation. Building over the existing lower-level areas simplified required seismic upgrades and reduced demolition and reconstruction costs.

The result is a timeless, cost-effective, and resilient concourse that leads the industry in best practices. The jury highlighted:

• “The team embraced the original, iconic structure with creative, interior detailing celebrating the original martini columns. The result is a light-filled, beautiful concourse that confidently embraces its role as a monumental civic space.”
• “That ceiling! The natural light makes this space so much more enjoyable to spend time in while waiting for departure.”
• “Love that it plays homage to the airport throughout history in a modern way. Enjoyed the use of color and textures in just the right amount and not overdoing it.”

The success of the project was made possible through intensive teamwork and consensus building to coordinate priorities and provide a coherent vision for the project from start to finish.