DENVER (KDVR) — From the gargoyle statues to “Blucifer” to the mysterious tunnels, there are many iconic features of the Denver International Airport, but one of the most recognizable elements is the white tents on top of the airport.
Unlike some odd artwork around DIA, the tents are there for more than just their looks.
The white tents, which are about 240,000 square feet and big enough to cover more than four football fields, make up the roof of the airport that can be seen from miles away.
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From the inside, the roof looks exactly like the inside of a massive tent. From the outside, DIA told FOX31 they were made to resemble the snow-capped Rocky Mountains and Native American teepees as a way to pay homage to the environment and history of Colorado.
Some consider the roof an eyesore. It was named one of the ugliest buildings in the U.S. in 2023. However, that’s debated as Fentress Architects named DIA among the favorite American architectural landmarks.
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Denver International Airport (Getty / David Lissy)
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Denver International Airport at dusk (Getty Images)
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An American Airlines jet takes off over the Denver International Airport terminal Friday, Dec. 22, 2006. (AP Photo/Will Powers)
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Interior of fabric roof and columns at the main terminal at Denver International Airport (Getty/ grandriver)
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The tents that form the roof are framed against the blue sky Monday, Jan. 3, 2022, in the main terminal of Denver International Airport in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
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Snow falling at DIA in November 2024 (Denver International Airport)
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The Denver International Airport grounds, including parking garages and the Westin hotel, on Jan. 23, 2024. (KDVR)
Despite the meaning behind the look, the airport chose the tents over a regular roof for more than aesthetic purposes.
The tents are sturdier than they might look, and according to DIA, they were preferred due to their durability, longevity and environmental qualities.
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DIA said the tents are made of woven fiberglass fabric and coated with polytetrafluoroethylene membrane, which is used to withstand temperatures of negative 100 degrees to over 450 degrees. This fabric is easily cleaned by rainwater and immune to UV degradation.
While the roof makes DIA one of the most recognizable airports, it’s used to protect over 70 million passengers yearly.
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