Transforming Traditional Exposition Centers for a Meeting Intense World

In the ever-evolving landscape of convention centers, we’ve started to see a shift in the need for more specific meeting and banquet space. Meeting organizers are finding the need to have more concurrent sessions leading to the use of non-traditional spaces to host functions. Through working with the feasibility study groups and our client’s customer advisory boards, we’re designing new convention centers to a 2:1 ratio (exhibit hall to meeting/banquet space) based on their feedback. 

The Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) West Hall Expansion, completed in 2021, is a great example of an exhibit heavy center that transformed to a more well-rounded exhibit to meetings ratio. The integration of meeting rooms opening towards the exhibit halls, industry-standard meeting spaces, and enhanced prefunction areas has redefined the convention experience for planners, exhibitors, and attendees. 

One of the key features that distinguish the LVCC West Hall is the strategic placement of meeting rooms that open towards the exhibit halls. This innovative design fosters a cohesive and interconnected environment, allowing event planners to integrate meetings with exhibitions seamlessly. Attendees can easily transition between sessions and exhibits, creating a fluid and dynamic experience. 

This deliberate alignment of meeting spaces and exhibit halls serves multiple purposes. It enhances the overall flow of the convention, encourages attendee engagement, and facilitates efficient use of space. Gone are the days of isolated meeting rooms tucked away in distant corners; instead, the West Hall promotes an integrated approach that maximizes the synergy between educational sessions and heavy trade within the exhibit halls. 

Recognizing the importance of versatility and functionality, the West Hall incorporates industry-standard meeting rooms that cater to the diverse needs of event planners. These meeting spaces are divisible with an airwall system, allowing event organizers the flexibility to make the space work as needed. The utilization of these meeting rooms enhances the convention center’s appeal to a wide range of industries and events. Whether hosting a convention, trade show or consumer event, the West Hall provides a technologically advanced and adaptable infrastructure that meets the highest industry standards. 

In addition to aligning meeting rooms with exhibit halls, the West Hall boasts enhanced prefunction spaces designed to elevate the overall event experience. Prefunction areas serve as dynamic hubs for networking, socializing, and impromptu meetings. The expanded prefunction spaces not only accommodate larger crowds but also offer meeting planners opportunities for activation and attendee engagement. These spaces have been designed with plenty of natural light, terraces with gorgeous views of the city, and end up being utilized as event space to host receptions.  

The LVCC West Hall expansion marks a significant shift in the paradigm of convention center design. By reimagining the traditional exposition center and embracing a meeting-intensive approach, the LVCC has positioned itself at the forefront of the industry, standing as a shining example of innovation and adaptability in the world of meetings and exhibitions. The addition of meeting specific space and enhanced prefunction areas reflects a commitment to creating a dynamic and immersive environment that caters to the evolving needs of event organizers and attendees alike.

Credit to: Erik Waldman, CVE, TVS Senior Vice President of Client Services