Airports are typically filled with stressed-out travelers frazzled by delays, lines and security. RS&H Architecture, the architects of the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport terminal, hired SKP Design to help alleviate some of that stress.

Their solution was terrazzo.

Sondra Phillips, owner of SKP, oversaw the terrazzo river design that now stretches along the second floor bridge of the airport terminal. Phillips and the architects decided on terrazzo for its long lifespan and ability to convey the shimmer and swirls of an actual river with the use of recycled glass, mother of pearl, and stone.

SKP Design worked with contractor Central Tile & Terrazzo to execute their naturalistic vision for the terminal bridge on time and under budget.

The bridge has been easing travelers’ nerves while also representing the many treasured rivers that run through southwest Michigan since the new terminal’s opening in April 2011.