Miami Beach Convention Center
July 17, 2015The Miami Beach Convention Center, which is home to countless events and trade shows is undergoing a $500 million renovation which is expected to be completed in 2017. Since the mid-1950’s the Convention Center, then know as Miami Beach Exhibition Hall, has accommodated many well known annual shows including the Miami International Boat Show, as well as Art Basel. The center has been known as a focal point throughout Miami Beach but has finally been positioned for a new face lift. The newly designed center is expected to increase and create a more enhanced atmosphere while embracing the surrounding local landmarks, including the Holocaust Memorial, Carl Fishers Clubhouse which is to be restored to its original state as well as a newly installed butterfly garden, veterans park, food pavilion and more.
The future LEED certified center is to be expanded in multiple aspects including multiple new meeting rooms, advanced technology, indoor/outdoor public spaces, a 20,000 sq ft junior ballroom with a glass rooftop ceiling and a 60,000 sq ft state-of-the-art grand ballroom. A newly installed public park will establish enhance walk-ability in the area and will include a food pavilion, public plaza in honor of the city’s veterans and will be surrounded by an abundance of trees created a shady oasis from hot Miami days.
A $6 million art budget has been incorporated into the renovation under Miami Beach’s Art in Public Places ordinance, and will include several world renowned artists throughout. This past year there was a Call to Artists, which received over 500 applicants, with an expected 3-5 artists receiving commission.
The project is expected to take a total of less than three years to complete and will enhance things such as traffic, parking, and protecting the nearby neighborhood. The renovation of the Miami Beach Convention Center is a change that will keep the center in line with the demands of the international convention community, while connecting the center to the local neighborhood.
Credit: mbccfuture