Ramon airport in Israel uses white aluminium panels for its exterior

While the usage of aluminium is expanding in the global construction sector, Ramon airport in the Israeli desert has reportedly made an extensive use of aluminium. So much so that according to a report “panels of white aluminium have enveloped the exterior of the airport”.

Designed by Amir Mann-Ami Shinar Architects and Moshe Zur Architects, the airport is located 12 miles north of the city of Eilat, Israel, on 506 hectares of arid land.

Commenting on the design of the airport project design manager Amir Mann said: "Our objective was how not to compete with the overwhelming emptiness of the site, while creating a place that welcomes passengers through the departure and arrival processes, reflecting through that experience the uniqueness of the desert environment, as a functioning international southern gate to Israel."

The buildings are unified by white panels that span the walls and roofs made from insulating aluminium. The panels are designed in such a manner that they resemble the mushroom-like rocks found in Israel's Timna Park.

The passenger terminal features minimal interior and high-ceilings, designed in contrast with the building’s exterior. Low-lying furniture and pavilions act as partitions, designed by the architecture studios to echo the architecture of Mies van der Rohe.

Meanwhile, to match the look of the airport with the surrounding landscape, the designers used the sand and rock which were excavated during the construction for creating runways, hardstands for aircraft parking, and roads.