RSHP reveals winning design for zhongyuan convention complex

Zhongyuan Convention and Conference Centre complex

Rogers Stirk Harbour and Partners (RSHP) has revealed its latest project win in Zhengzhou, China. Together withpartners Tongji Architectural Design (Group) Co. (TJAD), the British firm was selected to design the next phase of the Zhongyuan International Convention and Conference Centre complex, strategically located within the Zhengzhou Airport Economic Zone, adjacent to the international airport. The new development extends east and west of an existing park, situated south of the original Convention Centre, and holds three key components: the Phase 2 Convention Centre, a Conference Centre, and a Hotel.

all visuals © RSHP

rshp designs A mile-long central spine

Connectivity and modularity are the starting points of the design of Zhongyuan Convention Complex, with a 1.7 km-long elevated floor plane or central spine connecting the three main entrances, exhibition halls, Conference Centre, and hotel to create a layout that is interconnected and easily accessible. The team at RSHP emphasizes pedestrian-friendliness and the public realm, with two levels of the central spine creating separated circulation routes for fast and slow pedestrian traffic, splitting the flows for viewing exhibits and other activities such as dining and shopping.

Zhongyuan International Convention and Conference Centre complex

joining a Convention Centre, Conference Centre, and hotel

The Zhongyuan Convention Centre features sixteen exhibition halls and related facilities on either side of the central spine. Each standard hall has an approximate net area of 12,500 sqm, with a clear span of 78.5 m x 161 m on level 1, accommodating a broad spectrum of exhibition and event requirements. The upper level crosses the park via the eastern entrance pavilion, connecting the Convention Centre to the grand Conference Centre and the adjacent hotel. The Conference Centre is primarily enclosed by a spectacular floating roof that rises over the main conference hall, with large cable-net facades providing transparency and clarity to the functionality contained within. The lower level of the complex offers restaurants and public spaces where visitors and exhibitors can eat, relax, and enjoy the architectural splendor of their environment.

RSHP emphasizes pedestrian-friendliness and public realm

RSHP hopes to achieve the China Green Building rating, with plans to install several photovoltaic panels on the entrance pavilion roof. Incorporating daylight within the exhibition halls along with rainwater harvesting for irrigation will promote and substantiate passive sustainable systems. The Phase II Convention Centre spans 925 acres, with a total construction area of 527,000 sqm. The Conference Centre and Hotel covers an area of 122 acres and 200,000 sqm in construction. ‘The architectural design […] is consistent in style with our Phase I Convention Centre. The large, cantilevered wings of canopies and the gable roof of the Conference Centre The large, cantilevered wings of canopies and the gable roof of the Conference Centre embody the spirit of Zhongyuan, which is characterized by its inclusiveness,‘ shares project developer, Henan Airport Construction & Development Corporation.

large, cantilevered wings at the entrance of the Zhongyuan convention complex