American studios SOM, Ross Barney Architects, Juan Gabriel Moreno Architects and Arup have unveiled designs for a "satellite concourse" at Chicago O'Hare International Airport.

Named Satellite One, the terminal will provide additional gates for airlines that operate out of Chicago and space for layover passengers. It will service international and national flights.

A team led by SOM has designed a satellite terminal for Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

Led by SOM, the design team chose a structure based on trees – a subtle nod to the orchard that once occupied the spot in what is now the northwestern suburbs of the city.

"Inspired by the orchard that gave O'Hare its original name (Orchard Field), a tree-like structural system inside the concourse eliminates almost half the columns at the gates, reducing congestion and enabling more efficient boarding and improved visibility for passengers," said the studio.

It has a "tree-like" structural system and vaulted roof

The terminal will be connected to the main body of the airport via a bridge to Concourse C of Terminal 1. It is roughly P-shaped in form and connects with the rest of O'Hare (ORD) in the wider circular section.

"We designed the new satellite concourse to create a frictionless experience for travelers, on par with the best airports in the world," said SOM design partner Scott Duncan.

"The gate lounges feature column-free expanses for easy way-finding, high ceilings to improve views and air circulation, and a daylighting strategy to help align the body's natural rhythms – all to make the experience of air travel more pleasurable."