A Case Study on Convention Centers

Overseas and Local Convention/Exhibition Centers

A Case Study Presented to the

School of Architecture, Industrial Design, and the Built Environment

Submitted by:
Valera, Marion Ancilla Jophiel C.
Student No. 2018121610

Submitted to:
Ar. Demetrio Alcaraz
Research Methods for Architecture

September 19, 2024

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page..........................................................................................................................................i
Table of Contents..............................................................................................................................ii

I. Overseas Exhibition Halls

I.1 Haimen Yungu Agricultural Center
1.1 Introduction..........................................................................................................................1
1.2 Design Concept.....................................................................................................................1
1.3 Architectural Materials.........................................................................................................2
1.4 Facade: Windows..................................................................................................................3
1.5 Staircase: Vertical Access and Circulation.............................................................................3
1.6 Plans......................................................................................................................................5
1.7 Positive and Negative Points.................................................................................................7
1.8 Conclusion.............................................................................................................................7

II. Local Convention Centers

II.1 World Trade Center Metro Manila
1.1 Introduction..........................................................................................................................8
1.2 Design Features.....................................................................................................................9
1.3 Building Layout and Facilities..............................................................................................10
1.4 Floor Layout and Analysis....................................................................................................11
1.5 Hall Specifications...............................................................................................................12
1.6 Positive and Negative Points...............................................................................................13
1.7 Conclusion...........................................................................................................................14

REFERENCES....................................................................................................................................15

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 I. OVERSEAS EXHIBITION HALLS

1. Haimen Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall

Figure 1.1 Haimen Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall (Source: https://www.archdaily.com/967554/haimen-yungu-

agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad/6128aa97f91c811f3100003f-haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad-photo?
next_project=no )

1.1 Introduction
The Haimen Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall is located in the province of Haimen in Nantong
City. It is situated in what is known to be the first ecological farm in China and is the leading
architecture and spiritual center of the town.

Figure 1.2 Haimen Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall Aerial View (Source:
https://www.archdaily.com/967554/haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad)

1.2 Design Concept

Design by gad, an architectural firm in Hangzhou, China, the "warehouse" idea of agricultural
civilization serves as the basis for the architectural concept. It looks simple and atmospheric, like
a square box sitting in a field. "Square warehouse and round yard" refers to the round silo that
makes up the inner core. It fits well with the new era's development of spiritual civilization, even
as it suggests the Legalist notion of "knowing etiquette in a warehouse, knowing honor and
disgrace insufficient food and clothing." The traditional mat cave barn's woven bottom is used on
the building façade. The barn's roof is slanted and shaped like a wheat wave in the wind, as
determined by the column grid array.

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1.3 Architectural Materials

Figure 1.3 Haimen Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall Skin Analysis (Source:
https://www.archdaily.com/967554/haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad)

The Haimen Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall exemplifies a minimalist yet sophisticated
architectural approach. Its design ethos is rooted in the juxtaposition of mass and transparency,
achieved through a carefully considered structural composition. The building's form is
characterized by a stark, rectilinear volume that appears to hover above a transparent ground
floor, creating a compelling visual dichotomy.
The structural integrity of the upper mass is achieved through the use of Ultra-High Performance
Concrete (UHPC), a cutting-edge material known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and
durability. This choice of material not only serves functional purposes but also contributes
significantly to the building's aesthetic. The UHPC's jade-like warmth and low porosity emphasize
the building's pure geometric form, creating a play of light and shadow that accentuates its clean
lines and precise angles.
The facade's textural quality presents an intriguing perceptual phenomenon. When viewed in
close proximity, it exhibits a subtle, diffused appearance, yet from a distance, it presents crisp
edges and distinct corners. This duality in visual perception creates a dynamic interaction
between the building and its observers, changing as one approaches or moves away from the
structure.
The ground floor's extensive use of glass creates a permeable boundary between interior and
exterior spaces. This transparency not only provides a visual lightness that contrasts with the
solidity of the upper volume but also blurs the distinction between the built form and its
surrounding landscape. This design strategy effectively grounds the building within its context
while maintaining a sense of openness and accessibility.
The interplay between the solid upper mass and the transparent base articulates a fundamental
architectural dialogue between enclosure and connection, opacity and transparency. This
contrast is not merely aesthetic but serves to delineate the building's functions, potentially
separating more private or controlled environments above from public or circulation spaces
below.

Figure 1.4 Haimen Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Man’s Eye View (Source:
https://www.archdaily.com/967554/haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad)

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1.4 Facade: Windows
The design team has carefully considered the window openings that face the best external
scenery and correspond to significant inside spaces, as shown in the surface composition. The
window and hollowed surface offer light and shadow, ambiance, and a complex sensory
experience to the interior space while also seemingly expanding the building's physical footprint.
Through connection and communication both inside and outside the buildings—which at first
glance appear to be walled off and introverted—people are able to contribute to the
environment's organic evolution.

Figure 1.5 Haimen Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall Facade (Source:

https://www.archdaily.com/967554/haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad)

1.5 Staircases: Vertical Access and Circulation

Figure 1.6 Haiman Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall Circulation

(Source:https://www.archdaily.com/967554/haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-
gad/6128aad0f91c811ef6000036-haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad-photo )

The building's many functions are connected vertically by the spinning open staircases. Ascending
the stairs gives visitors the impression that they are embarking on a well planned "seed journey,"
continuously stimulating their innate curiosity and urge to see and investigate.

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The two outdoor and indoor staircases simultaneously create a parallel viewing moving line that
provides views of the surrounding structures, the pastoral landscape, and the interior activity of
the agricultural display hall. From the west exit of the exhibition hall, visitors can approach the
town demonstration area and agricultural exhibition area directly across the landscape bridge on
the artificial water system. They can also access the second-floor platform, which is part of the
town's "double first floor" commercial street model, to access the proposed commercial street
on the north side of the exposition hall.

Figure 1.7 Haiman Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall Staircase Illustrated Funtion and Zoning (Source:
https://www.archdaily.com/967554/haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad/6128a245f91c811ef6000025-
haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad-axonometric?next_project=no)

Figure 1.8 Haiman Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall Staircase

(Source:https://www.archdaily.com/967554/haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-
gad/6128aad0f91c811ef6000036-haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad-photo )

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1.6 PLANS

Figure 1.9 Haiman Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall Ground Floor Plan (Source:
https://www.archdaily.com/967554/haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad/6128a1def91c811ef6000021-
haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad-1f-plan?next_project=no)

Figure Haiman Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall Second Floor Plan (Source:
https://www.archdaily.com/967554/haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad/6128a1def91c811ef6000021-
haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad-1f-plan?next_project=no)

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Figure 1.10 Haiman Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall Sectional Elevation View (Source:
https://inf.news/en/design/b26ab8fc9fb0fc6292d0f88a8edf96c0.html)

Figure 1.11 Haiman Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall Bay Section (Source:
https://inf.news/en/design/b26ab8fc9fb0fc6292d0f88a8edf96c0.html)

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1.7 Positive and Negative Points
Positive features:
1. Innovative design concept: The building is inspired by the "warehouse" idea of agricultural
civilization, blending traditional and modern elements.
2. Use of advanced materials: The structure employs Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC),
known for its strength, durability, and aesthetic qualities.
3. Visual interest: The facade's textural quality creates an intriguing perceptual phenomenon,
changing appearance based on viewing distance.
4. Integration of transparency: The ground floor's extensive use of glass creates a permeable
boundary between interior and exterior spaces.

5. Thoughtful window placement: Window openings are carefully positioned to capture the best
external views and correspond to significant interior spaces.
6. Vertical connectivity: Spiral open staircases connect the building's various functions, creating a
"seed journey" experience for visitors.
7. Contextual integration: The design effectively grounds the building within its surrounding
landscape while maintaining openness and accessibility.
8. Functional layout: The building's plans show a well-organized space that accommodates
various exhibition and circulation needs.

Negative features:
1. Limited information on sustainability features
2. Potential maintenance challenges: The extensive use of glass on the ground floor may require
frequent cleaning and upkeep.
3. Lack of cultural specificity: While the design incorporates some traditional elements, it's not
clear how deeply it reflects local architectural traditions or agricultural themes.
4. Possible thermal issues: Depending on the climate control systems, the glass ground floor
could present challenges in temperature regulation.

1.8 Conclusion
The Haimen Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall exemplifies innovative contemporary architecture
that successfully merges form with function. Its design ingeniously reinterprets agricultural
themes using modern materials and techniques, particularly evident in the use of Ultra-High
Performance Concrete for its dynamic facade. The building's thoughtful spatial organization,
highlighted by the contrast between its solid upper volume and transparent ground floor,
enhances both its visual appeal and functionality. While there's room for improvement in
sustainability features and local cultural representation, the structure excels in creating an
engaging visitor experience through its carefully planned circulation and visual elements. Overall,
the Exhibition Hall stands as a significant architectural achievement, effectively serving its
purpose while contributing a distinctive presence to its surroundings.

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 II. LOCAL CONVENTION CENTERS

1. World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM)

Figure WTCMM Exterior (Source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Trade_Center_Metro_Manila)

Figure 2.1 WTCMM Floor Man’s Eye View (Source: WTC Association)

1.1 Introduction
The World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM) stands as a prominent landmark in the bustling
Pasay City, Philippines. Completed in 1996, this modern complex showcases a blend of
contemporary design and functional architecture.

The main structure, a sleek 18-story tower, features a distinctive façade of blue-tinted glass and
white aluminum panels, reflecting the city's skyline and symbolizing the country's aspirations in
global trade. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Recio + Casas, the WTCMM complex
spans approximately 70,000 square meters and includes expansive exhibition halls, meeting
rooms, and office spaces. Its construction marked a significant milestone in Manila's
development as an international business hub, providing a dedicated venue for trade fairs,
conventions, and corporate events. The building's efficient layout and advanced facilities have
made it a key player in the Philippines' MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions)
industry since its inauguration.
The WTCMM played a significant role in the development of Pasay City and the greater Metro
Manila area. Its construction was part of a larger urban renewal project aimed at establishing
Manila as a major business hub in Southeast Asia. The complex helped attract international
businesses and events to the city, contributing to the growth of the local economy and the
modernization of the surrounding area.
Construction Process and Challenges: Construction of the WTCMM began in the early 1990s and
was completed in 1996. The project faced several challenges, including:
Site preparation in an area with a high water table, requiring extensive foundation work
Coordinating the construction of multiple structures within the complex
Implementing advanced building systems that were new to the Philippine construction
industry at the time
Ensuring the structure could withstand the region's seismic activity and tropical weather
conditions

Since its opening, the WTCMM has significantly boosted Manila's capacity to host international
trade events and conferences. It has:
Facilitated numerous international trade fairs and exhibitions
Provided a platform for local businesses to connect with global markets
Contributed to the growth of the Philippines' MICE industry
Attracted foreign investment by providing world-class facilities for business operations

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1.2 Design Features
The WTCMM's design, created by Recio + Casas, exemplifies late 20th-century modernist
architecture with local adaptations:
Exterior Design:
The façade utilizes a curtain wall system, combining blue-tinted glass and white
aluminum panels. This design choice not only provides aesthetic appeal but also helps in
heat reduction, crucial in Manila's tropical climate.
The building's silhouette is predominantly rectangular, but with subtly curved corners
that soften its appearance and provide a more dynamic visual interest.
The main tower rises to 18 stories, creating a significant presence in the Pasay City
skyline.
Structural Elements:
The building employs a steel and reinforced concrete structure, designed to withstand
the seismic activity common in the Philippines.
Advanced foundation systems were implemented to address the challenges posed by the
area's high water table.
Interior Features:
The grand atrium in the main lobby is a focal point, featuring a multi-story open space
that floods the interior with natural light.
Interior finishes include a mix of local and imported materials, with extensive use of
marble and granite in public areas.
Environmental Considerations:
The blue-tinted glass serves a dual purpose of aesthetics and solar heat reduction.
The building incorporates energy-efficient systems, which have been upgraded over time
to improve sustainability.
Architectural Integration:
The design successfully integrates the tall main tower with lower-rise structures housing
exhibition spaces, creating a cohesive complex that flows well both visually and
functionally.

Figure 2.2 WTCMM Interior (Source: Figure 2.3 WTCMM Interior (Source: WTC
https://www.wtcmanila.com.ph/about-us/) Association)

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1.3 Building Layout and Facilities
The WTCMM is designed as a multi-functional complex to serve various business needs:
Exhibition Spaces:
- The complex boasts approximately 11,000 square meters of exhibition space.
- This space is divided into multiple halls that can be configured flexibly for different types of
events.
- The largest hall can accommodate up to 450 booths for major trade shows.
- High ceilings and column-free designs in these spaces allow for versatile use, from trade
exhibitions to gala dinners.
Conference and Meeting Facilities:
- Multiple conference rooms of varying sizes are available, equipped with modern audiovisual
technology.
- A grand ballroom can host large conferences or be divided for smaller events.
- Breakout rooms are strategically placed for easy access from main conference areas.
Business Center:
- A fully-equipped business center offers services such as secretarial support, translation, and
telecommunications.
- Private offices and co-working spaces are available for short-term rental.
Office Spaces:
- The upper floors of the main tower house premium office spaces with panoramic views of the
city.
- These offices are designed to be easily customizable for different corporate needs.
Auxiliary Facilities:
- Restaurants and cafes are located throughout the complex, catering to visitors and tenants.
- Retail spaces are integrated into the ground floor, adding convenience for building users.
- A spacious underground parking facility can accommodate a large number of vehicles.
Technological Infrastructure:
- The building is equipped with high-speed internet and advanced telecommunications systems.
- Security systems include CCTV coverage and access control for different areas of the complex.
Circulation and Access:
- The layout is designed for efficient flow of large numbers of people during major events.
- Multiple entry points and elevators ensure smooth movement between different parts of the
complex.
- Dedicated loading docks and freight elevators facilitate easy setup and breakdown for
exhibitions.
The WTCMM's design and layout reflect a careful balance between aesthetic appeal and practical
functionality, making it a versatile venue for a wide range of business activities in Metro Manila.

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1.4 Floor Layout and Analysis
The World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM) stands as a significant exhibition and
convention center in the Philippines, serving as a hub for various national and international
events. This analysis examines the architectural floor layout of the WTCMM, providing insights
into its design, functionality, and spatial organization.

Figure 2.4 WTCMM Floor Layout (Source:https://www.wtcmanila.com.ph/wp-

content/themes/worldtradecenter/assets/WTCMM%20Brochure.pdf)

1.Overall Layout
The floor plan reveals a large-scale exhibition and convention center with a rectangular
footprint. The space is primarily divided into four main halls (A, B, C, and D) with additional
support areas.
2. Spatial Organization
The layout follows a linear organization, with Halls A, B, and C aligned in sequence.
Hall D is positioned perpendicular to the main hall sequence, creating an L-shaped overall
configuration.
This arrangement allows for flexible use of space, as halls can be used independently or
combined for larger events.

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3. Circulation
A main lobby area is situated at the front of the building, providing primary access to the
halls.
Multiple entry/exit points (indicated by yellow icons) are strategically placed around the
perimeter, ensuring efficient crowd flow and emergency egress.
Wide corridors between halls facilitate easy movement and can serve as additional exhibition
space if needed.
4. Functional Zoning
The loading bay at the rear of the building provides efficient servicing for all halls.
Restroom facilities are distributed throughout the layout for convenience.
Smaller meeting rooms or offices are likely located in the areas flanking the main lobby.
5. Flexibility

The modular design of Halls A, B, and C (with similar dimensions) allows for versatile space
configuration.
Movable partitions enable the combination or division of halls as needed for different event
sizes.
6. Scale
The summary indicates a total exhibition area of over 20,000 square meters, with individual
halls ranging from 2,766 sqm (Hall A) to 5,533 sqm (Halls B-C combined).
The main lobby adds another 1,410 sqm of space, likely serving as a reception and
registration area.
7. Technical Considerations
The loading bay with multiple dock doors suggests good capacity for event setup and
breakdown.
The presence of columns (small squares in Halls B and C) indicates a large-span structural
system, likely using trusses or long-span beams to create open, column-free spaces in the
halls.
8. Accessibility
Multiple entrances and the spacious lobby area indicate the building is designed to handle
large crowds efficiently.
The layout appears to consider accessibility needs with strategically placed facilities.
In conclusion, this floor layout demonstrates a well-thought-out design for a versatile exhibition
and convention center. It prioritizes flexibility, efficient circulation, and practical functionality,
allowing for a wide range of event types and sizes. The modular approach to the main halls and
the strategic placement of support facilities contribute to its effectiveness as a large-scale public
venue.

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1.5 Hall Specifications
The World Trade Center Metro Manila's technical specifications reveal a versatile and well-
equipped event venue. With a total exhibition area of 13,810 sqm across multiple halls, high
ceiling clearances, and robust infrastructure, it can accommodate a wide range of events. The
facility boasts flexible spaces, ample power supply with redundancy, efficient loading capabilities,
and comprehensive safety features. Multiple access points and ramps ensure smooth circulation
for both visitors and cargo. The venue's design prioritizes functionality, safety, and adaptability,
making it suitable for exhibitions, conferences, and large-scale gatherings. While excelling in most
areas, potential improvements could include advanced acoustic or AV systems. Overall, the
specifications indicate a modern, purpose-built facility capable of meeting diverse event
requirements in Manila's bustling business landscape.

Figure 2.5 WTCMM Hall Specifications (Source:https://www.wtcmanila.com.ph/wp-

content/themes/worldtradecenter/assets/WTCMM%20Brochure.pdf)

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1.6 Positive and Negative Points
A. Positive architectural features:
1. Functionality: The WTCMM is designed primarily as an exhibition and convention center, and
its layout effectively serves this purpose with large, open spaces that can accommodate various
events.
2. Location: Situated in Pasay City, part of Metro Manila, the building benefits from a strategic
location that's easily accessible to both local and international visitors.
3. Structural design: The building features a high-ceilinged main hall, which provides ample space
for large exhibits and events, demonstrating good spatial planning for its primary function.
4. Flexibility: The interior spaces are designed to be adaptable, allowing for the hosting of
different types of events from trade shows to concerts.

5. Integration with surroundings: The complex includes outdoor areas and is part of a larger
development, which helps it integrate with the urban fabric of Manila.

B. Negative architectural features:

1. Aesthetic appeal: The exterior of the WTCMM is relatively plain and boxy, lacking the iconic or
innovative design elements that many modern convention centers incorporate.
2. Sustainable features: From available information, the building doesn't seem to prominently
feature cutting-edge sustainable or green building technologies, which are becoming increasingly
important in modern architecture.
3. Cultural representation: The architecture doesn't strongly reflect Filipino cultural elements or
local architectural traditions, which could have given it a more distinctive character.
4. Exterior spaces: There seems to be limited integration of outdoor spaces or green areas
directly connected to the building, which could enhance user experience and environmental
performance.
5. Aging infrastructure: As the building has been in use since the late 1990s, some of its systems
and facilities may be outdated compared to more recently constructed convention centers.

1.7 Conclusion
The World Trade Center Metro Manila demonstrates a strong balance of functionality and
adaptability in its architectural design. Its expansive, flexible spaces and robust technical
capabilities make it well-suited for a variety of events. While the exterior may lack distinctive
aesthetic elements and cutting-edge sustainable features, the center's thoughtful layout and
attention to operational needs underscore its effectiveness as an event venue. Though there's
room for modernization, particularly in sustainability and innovative design features, the
WTCMM's solid foundational architecture positions it well to serve Manila's event needs both
now and in the future, with potential for strategic upgrades to maintain its relevance in the
evolving urban landscape.

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REFERENCES

1. ArchDaily. (2021). Haimen Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall / GAD. Retrieved September 17,
2024, from https://www.archdaily.com/967554/haimen-yungu-agricultural-exhibition-hall-gad
2. Inf.news. (n.d.). Haimen Yungu Agricultural Exhibition Hall / GAD. Retrieved September 17,
2024, from https://inf.news/en/design/b26ab8fc9fb0fc6292d0f88a8edf96c0.html
3. World Trade Center Metro Manila. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved September 18, 2024, from
https://www.wtcmanila.com.ph/about-us/
4. Wikipedia. (n.d.). World Trade Center Metro Manila. Retrieved September 18, 2024, from
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Trade_Center_Metro_Manila

5. Scribd. (n.d.). Design bylaws. Retrieved September 16, 2024, from

https://www.scribd.com/document/420580047/Design-bylaws
6. ResearchGate. (n.d.). Space Efficiency and Circulation Parameters for a Functional
Convention Centre in International Markets. Retrieved September 16, 2024, from
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/372420075_Space_Efficiency_and_Circulation_Param
eters_for_a_Functional_Convention_Centre_in_International_Markets

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