When you think of a container terminal, you probably don't think of great architecture. But that's exactly what some people thought about the Hanjin Container Terminal at the Port of Long Beach, Calif.

The Hanjin Terminal was a winner in this year's Business Week/Architectural Record Awards, sponsored by the American Institute of Architects. The shipping terminal entry-gate complex was designed by Robert Stewart Architect/Caldwell Architects and won the award for private sector, under $25 million.
"The power of architecture to integrate complex work environments is captured in this project," says Business Week. "Korea-based Hanjin Shipping Co. is one of the world's fastest-growing ocean container shipping lines, with 3,400 employees in 47 countries. It needed a much larger, more productive terminal in the U.S. to handle containers and the trucks that move them. The owner, operator, and architect collaborated in dissecting the operations of a port facility, rebuilding it piece by piece, and matching the flow of work and the way it gets done. Gate buildings, guard booths, and employee facilities were all designed to keep trucks moving efficiently. A canopy cuts down on exhaust fumes during inspection. 'Who says a container terminal can't have beauty, grace, and wow?' says one juror. Hanjin's goal of doubling its volume was met within two years of the terminal's
opening in 1997."
This is the fourth annual Business Week/Architectural Record Awards contest. The jury includes both businesspeople and architects. The goal is to solve difficult business problems with architectural solutions.
To read about all the winners, including photos, visit Business Week's website.