44
TERMINALS  
May | June 2026      AirportImprovement.com
CID
Rather than following current trends, designers focused 
on more classic materials—timber, steel, glass and stone—
executed in ways that felt both contemporary and familiar 
to the Cedar Rapids community and wider region. “When 
we first interviewed for this job, it was a terminal that felt 
hostile,” Dubbe recalls. “There was no natural daylight, 
and the airport felt strongly that the first impression did not 
reflect the community.”
Natural light became the unifying design element across 
all phases of the project. “The sun plays such an important 
role in Iowa, both from an agricultural perspective and in 
intuitively tracking the passage of time,” Dubbe explains.
The updated facility now serves as a physical expression 
of eastern Iowa’s identity. Natural materials, subtle 
designs in the terrazzo flooring and expansive views of 
the airfield and local landscape connect the terminal to 
its surroundings. Outdoor patios extend that connection 
beyond the building walls. 
One particularly meaningful feature scheduled to be 
installed soon is a table crafted from trees felled by strong 
derecho winds in August 2020. “It’s a way to bring a piece 
Daktronics LED video display technology provides a reliable canvas for airports that focus on 
the traveler. With the effective use of indoor and outdoor installations, airports can do more 
than move travelers from point A to point B.
DIGITAL LED VIDEO DISPLAYS
DAKTRONICS.COM/AIRPORTS
SEE THE DENVER INTERNATIONAL 
AIRPORT DISPLAYS IN ACTION.
IMPROVE THE TRAVELER EXPERIENCE
OPTIMIZE OPERATIONS
CREATE A SENSE OF PLACE
PHOTO: PAUL GATES PHOTOGRAPHY
Restrooms were expanded and updated. 

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