Los Angeles International Airport’s (LAX) Terminal 4 South Concourse expansion represents more than just a facelift—it’s a convergence of global engineering, creative architecture, and construction excellence. At the heart of this transformation is the intricate ceiling and wall systems installed by two of Southern California’s most respected specialty contractors: Nevell Group Inc. and Performance Contracting Inc. With international coordination, state-of-the-art materials, and field-tested precision, the project sets a new benchmark for airport interiors.

For both subcontractors, the project was as much a technical and logistical feat as it was a design statement.

LAX is undergoing a significant transformation, with Terminal 4 at the forefront of this modernization effort. The project focuses on revamping the terminal's walls and ceilings to improve aesthetics, functionality, and passenger comfort.

The modernization of Terminal 4 includes the demolition and reconstruction of the East and Central Headhouse structures. This redevelopment expands the terminal’s footprint by approximately 62 percent, resulting in a Level 5 facility that is 217,400 square foot. The new design accommodates enhanced passenger services, including improved check-in areas, baggage systems, and security screening checkpoints.

Integrated Ceiling Design

A standout feature of the renovation is the integrated ceiling system, designed to delineate passenger circulation and seating zones. The design team, PGAL, collaborated with contractors for means and methods and manufacturers for a variety of materials, finishes and product solutions, to create a ceiling that combines lighting and acoustics to produce a vibrant and spacious environment. This approach ensures that seating areas feel more lounge-like, enhancing the overall passenger experience.

Specialty contractors, such as NGi, have been instrumental in constructing and finishing the terminal’s unique walls and ceilings. The subcontractor’s expertise ensures that the terminal’s interior meets the highest standards of design and functionality.

The terminal’s exterior features a glass curtain wall that complements the mid-century modern aesthetic prevalent in LAX’s recent constructions. This design choice provides a cohesive look and feel across the Central Terminal Area, aligning with the airport’s broader modernization goals.

NGi. is a commercial interior and exterior wall systems specialty trade contractor in the Western United States. With offices spanning multiple markets in California and Nevada, NGi serves clients in both public and private sectors including medical, OSHPD, commercial, retail, tenant improvement and government entities.

“At Nevell Group, we’re always exploring new ways to be better, not only as a business and an employer, but through the services we provide as an industry leader,” says NGi CEO Chris Taylor. “A big part of our culture is to promote, nurture and champion new ideas that show the potential to help elevate our evolving industry.”

Marked by industry-leading pre-construction, unsurpassed project management, and critical innovation, NGi consistently delivers best-in-class outcomes for its clients.

As a top-tier specialty contractor in the United States, PCI delivers exceptional services and products to industrial, commercial, and non-residential sectors. Offering a wide range of related services, they have established themselves as a true “one-stop-shop” contractor, ensuring their customers receive comprehensive solutions tailored to their specific needs. The subcontractor collaborated with NGi to work on this special project.

“The most interesting aspect of this project was definitely the coffered ceilings,” says Martin Torres, project manager at PCI in Los Angeles.

PCI has been active onsite at LAX consistently since 2008, providing long-term continuity, deep familiarity with airport operations, and trusted working relationships—all of which are critical to the success of complex construction projects, like this one, in active, high-security environments. This sustained presence has contributed to multiple award-winning projects, reinforcing PCI’s reputation for excellence and innovation in aviation construction.

“The ceilings incorporated a complex mix of materials—CertainTeed fiberglass panels, honeycomb aluminum, and custom extrusions—that required close collaboration from design through installation,” says Torres.

“American Airlines T4 was challenging yet rewarding in the sense that we were able to capture the design intent and more, and build something truly remarkable,” says Jonathan Quijano, project manager/estimator at NGi, headquartered in Brea, Calif. “We have no doubt this new space gives passengers and staff a feeling of serenity at times of stressful travel.”

A Ceiling Above Expectations

The ceiling work inside Terminal 4 is nothing short of world-class. It includes a seamless blend of CertainTeed fiberglass torsion spring panels, large-format honeycomb wall panels, custom extruded aluminum coffers, and wood-look aluminum battens.

Global sourcing played a significant role in bringing the vision to life.

“This wasn’t just local coordination,” Torres explains. “Sean Sinkola [project engineer] at PCI and I actually traveled to the Netherlands and Belgium to oversee the fabrication of the custom aluminum extrusions. It was critical to the project’s success that we got it right—not just for aesthetics but for schedule alignment too.”

NGi, too, found the design intent to be a strong guiding principle.

“The architect wanted timeless finishes and clean, modern lines,” says Quijano. “We were especially impressed with the coffered ceilings and the wood-look wall battens. These elements required a lot of precision and attention to detail.

Looking Ahead

For both firms, the Terminal 4 project is more than a finished job—it’s a proof point.

“Our long-term goals include leading in sustainable construction, strengthening trade partnerships, and expanding throughout California and beyond,” says Quijano.

Torres echoed that sentiment: “I’m committed to taking on more complex projects that challenge and grow me. But I also want to mentor the next generation of builders. It’s about leaving a legacy—both through the projects and the people.”

Whether in the coffered ceiling details or the collaborative spirit that spanned continents, the Terminal 4 ceilings project stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when international precision meets local pride.