b'PHOTO: FORD AV INFO TECHNOLOGYIAH 69focused on their vision for the digital experience so we could understand how to bring and maintain stakeholder involvement through the multi-yearMATTHEW MEIERprocess, recalls Matthew Meier, project manager with Burns Engineering.In addition to coordinating project designers, engineers and creative teams, the firm also validated the structural design from HOK: a cantilevered, angled fascia strong enough to support the massive media system yet still integrate into the terminals clean existing architectural lines. Burns personnel worked closely with HOKs architectural team and Nanolumens engineering specialists to confirm load paths, materials and attachment points that balanced strength with the architectural effect envisioned by Houston Airports. Although travelers might think IAHs new digital display is just another big, splashy LED wall, it is significantly different from most. Unlike flat or cylindrical displays common in sports stadiums and arenas, the Oculus is a tilted oval that is narrower at the top than the baselike a truncated cone. The most complex part is its actually tilted down, explains Mitch Warren, senior design immersive digital design will form atechnical oversight from early planningengineer with Ford AV. beautiful jewel box that delights andthrough final commissioning, NanolumensThe video surface isMITCH WARRENinspires wonder from both levels.engineered and manufactured thenot perpendicular to the floor. What appears to be a single,custom LED display. Ford Audio-VideoThe distinct shape and geometry continuous display is actually an intricateSystems (Ford AV) managed the complexinclude continuous curves along multiple orchestration of architecture, electronics,systems integration and coordinatedaxes, which presented considerable software and creative content designedthe technology that drives the array, andchallenges for project partners. to welcome visitors and celebrate the cityGentilhomme Studio led creative designNanolumens had to custom manufacture itself. This is about connecting Houstonand content production.all these trapezoidal LED panels that to the world and the world to Houston indont exist anywhere else in the world, a way that drives economic growth andFrom Concept to RealityWarren notes. No two panels are identical, reflects the innovation that defines ourWhen Houston Airports first exploredbut together, they form a structure that city, Szczesniak notes. adding a large-scale digital feature atprovides a truly unique visual experience.IAH, the goal extended beyond simple To help bring the Oculus toaesthetics. The team wanted to create anIn fact, the Special Projects Group life, Houston Airports hired Burnsexperience that would connect travelersat Nanolumens spent years developing Engineering as its Owners Authorizedto the identity of Houston in a way thatthe technical framework that made the Representative. While Burns providedfelt seamless. The earliest discussionsdisplay possible. Nanolumens R&D AirportImprovement.comJanuary | February 2026'