Tribhuwan University

Institute of Engineering
DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE
Central Campus, Pulchowk

A REPORT ON

LITERATURE REVIEW AND CASE STUDY ON

CONVENTION CENTER

Submitted by: Submitted to:

Name: Pukar Bhandari Prof. Mahesh Shrestha

Roll no: 070/BAE/225 Ar. Saroj Raj Rajkarnikar

 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Literature Review:
1.1 INTRODUCTION:

“Convention is the name given to a general or formal meeting of a legislative body, social or
economical group in order to provide information on a particular economic situation and in order to
deliberate and consequently, establish consent on policies among the participants, usually of limited
duration with set objectives but no determined frequency.”
-Lawson Fred, Congress, Convention and Exhibition facilities: planning design and Management
(Architectural press: London, page 9)

The term Convention is widely used in much discipline. A ‘Convention’ word in general can be
defined as
o A large formal assembly of a group with common interests, such as a political party or trade union

o The persons attending such an assembly

o (U.S. politics) an assembly of delegates of one party to select candidates for office

o (Diplomacy) an international agreement second only to a treaty in formality

o A telecommunications convention

o Any agreement, compact, or contract

o The most widely accepted or established view of what is thought to be proper behavior, good taste

etc.

Convention – A large meeting of member of profession, a political party, etc.

Center- A place or an area where a lot of people live, a place where a lot of business and cultural
activity takes place
Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary
7th edition, Oxford University Press

A convention is not simply a space for looking at or listening to a performance. A successful convention
for live performance supports the emotional exchange between the performer and the audience, and
between members of audience.

Thus conventions are usually general sessions, mostly information giving, often formed around a
particular theme or subject matter of topic interest and increasingly accompanied by exhibits. In
addition to need for large halls & auditoriums required for the plenary sessions, most conventions
break down into smaller groups to deliberate on particular matter of issue.

Convention Center-
A large civic building or group of buildings designed for conventions, industrial shows, and the like,
having large unobstructed exhibit areas and often including conference rooms, hotel
accommodations, restaurants, and other facilities. (www.dictionary.reference.com)

A convention center is generally defined as any property used in connection with a convention or
meeting center, or similar facility, including auditoriums, exhibition halls, facilities for food
preparation and serving, parking facilities, and administrative offices. A number of states have passed
legislation enabling public funding to be used for convention centers in an effort to attract tourism
and businesses to the local economy.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

1.2 COMPONENTS OF THE PROJECT:

Exhibition Spaces: In its broadest sense, an exhibition is a display, show or demonstration of

something of beauty, value or particular interest to a targeted audience.
Exhibition halls should have the space, freedom and flexibility to create an exhibition environment. In
any exhibition halls, proper considerations should be given to the movement of people and also to
the moving pattern.
On the other hand, outdoor exhibition spaces are usually located to immediate vicinity of the
exhibition halls. Outdoor exhibition areas can be developed as a flat ground or as an amphitheater.

Conference Spaces or Auditorium Halls: Conference halls or Auditoriums are mainly allocated in the
exhibition spaces to hold conferences and/or seminar during the exhibition period. Proper attention
must be provided in designing entry and exit routes.

Multipurpose Halls: Multipurpose Halls can be used for conferences, exhibitions, meetings,
symposiums and several other events. Multipurpose Halls can also be used as Banquet and/or Event
Halls and sometimes also as Galleries.

Other Important spaces of a Convention Center include:

 Recreational Spaces.
 Gallery.
 Restaurants.
 Administrative Spaces.
 Parking Spaces.
 Landscaped Areas.

1.3 MAJOR DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS:

1) Access and Entrance:

 Separate access is required for visitors, staff, goods and service vehicles and emergency
requirements. It is usually desirable to provide alternative entry for public which is
independent from that used by conference visitors. This not only facilitates management and
security, but also enables two or congress events or exhibitions to be run independently in
parallel.
 Easily identifiable entrance and exit, and clear external signage, which may need to be
illuminated.
 Sufficient unloading/loading space to accommodate multiple events.
 Level ground floor with loading docks of sufficient size for all services including client vehicles.
 Large coach drops off and collection points adjacent to main entrance, with sufficient turning
space and height, accessible under cover.
 Doors of sufficient width and height or demountable/retractable walls to permit truck access
(trucks delivering exhibit and staging equipment pose particular problems).
 Floor loadings to permit truck access.
 Easily identifiable and weather protected entrance and reception area for attendees.
 Clearly identified disabled access.
 In larger venues, security systems and monitoring at loading docks.
 Separate entry for venue staff.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

 Storage space (for several days) for pre-congress consignments including exhibitors’ displays
materials.

2) Access for the disabled:

 Specific provisions include allocation of parking spaces, identification of routes, provision of
ramps, toilets and facilities designed for wheelchair and other disabled users in each main area.

3) Parking:
 Coach parking bays off street.
 Sufficient undercover parking for attendees.
 All parking, including venue staff parking, should be secure.
 Direct access to venue lobby.
 Clear directions for exiting car park.
 Parking requirements for cars and other vehicles will depend on some extent on the proximity
and conditions for use of alternative facilities, such as municipal car parks, as well as on the
availability of public transport.
Typical provisions to allow flexibility in use are:
Use Per Car Parking Space
Banquet Places 10 Sq. m.
Congress Hall Places 10 Sq. m.

4) Service Vehicles:
 Plenty of space for parking while unloading/loading goods and equipment with a dedicated car
park for vehicles delivering goods or equipment.
 Parking for trucks with sufficient height and turning space where staging, audio visual or other
equipment needs to be packed in or out within short period of time.
 Long-term parking for trucks used for transporting production equipment and exhibitors’
displays.

5) Horizontal and Vertical Arrangements:

 The single floor organization provides easy access among the rooms and between the
conference areas and other functional elements. This plan imposes few structural or
mechanical constraints, permits total freedom in the planning of the rooms, allows for access
from the refreshment break areas to outdoor terraces and patios.
 Vertical stacking of auditoria and/or main halls is more economical in the use of land, and
enables space below tiered floors to be more efficiently used. Unit costs of construction are
higher and vertical transportation of people and goods may present difficulties.

6) Circulation:
 Linear arrangement of spaces with beginning, middle and end.
 A loop where the essentially linear storyline leads naturally back to the beginning.
 An arrangement of core and satellites where each theme or detailed treatment of a subject
leads back to a central introductory or orientational areas.
 A more complex scheme combining linear, loop and core-satellite arrangement of spaces.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

 Comb which refers to a circulation pattern in which there is a main circulation path and
optional alcoves which a visitor may enter or bypass.

Actors’ Rehearsal
Entry room
Technical
Room Video
Room
Preparation Stage
Room
Stores
Recording
Room

Auditorium

Control Interpretation
Room Room

Press Conference
Organization
Room Access

Foyer & Managing

Washroom
Circulation
Entrance Foyer Spaces

Deliveries Kitchen
Public
Entrance

Possible
Restaurant/ Exhibition Public Entry
Banquet Hall Separate
Hall
Public Entry

Entry

FIG: RELATIONSHIP IN A CONFERENCE HALL.

1.4 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND:

Convention centers and Exhibition spaces evolved from the open-air amphitheaters of the Greek
Agoras and Roman Forums, which were initially intended for large commercial fair. The first
convention centers can be traced back to mid-19th century Britain. Commonly known as exhibition
halls, the centers were designed to bring together people to discuss and explore their mutual interest
of a subject. These imposing Victorian buildings often covered several acres and were multi-functional
incorporating lecture halls, libraries, galleries, theatres and exhibition areas.

The Crystal Palace, Hyde Park-

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Among the first historical convention centers constructed was The Crystal Palace in London’s Hyde
Park. Providing 92,000 m2 of exhibition space, the building was erected in 1851 to house The Great
Exhibition a grand show case of modern industrial technology and design.
Organized by Prince Albert and inventor Henry Cole, the Great Exhibition was an international
platform for world powers to demonstrate their technological and cultural achievements. Although
countries all around the world could contribute, British exhibits - from working machinery to scientific
and surgical instruments - took center stage, promoting Britain’s position as a great industrial power.
In 1854 the Crystal Palace was dismantled and re-built in Sydenham, an area of south London which
by association became known as Crystal Palace. Ravaged by fire in 1936, the building was eventually
pulled down.

Bingley Hall, Birmingham-

Another key convention center in Britain’s history is Bingley Hall, Birmingham. Constructed in 1850
from surplus steels used to build Euston Station, the exhibition hall boasted over an acre of exhibition
space and was serviced by ten entrances.
Bingley Hall was a primary meeting and exhibition space and before it succumbed to fire in 1984,
hosted several key events, including cattle shows, concerts and boxing matches. It was also the center
for British Prime Minister Gladstone’s political rally in November 1888.
In Bingley Hall’s place now stands Birmingham’s International Convention Centre (ICC). Opened in
1991, the ICC is a major exhibition center comprising ten halls which can accommodate up to 8,000
visitors. The site also houses Symphony Hall, a 2,000 seat concert hall, alongside shops and cafes.

Dedicated Conference Centers-

Born out of the need for dedicated meeting spaces away from the traditional corporate environment,
a new breed of meeting venue has emerged in the last few decades the purpose-built conference
center.
These multi-functional buildings are designed to maximize attendees’ productivity and concentration
by offering a dedicated learning environment in high quality private surroundings.
Facilities typically include self-contained conference buildings, break-out rooms, exhibition spaces,
dedicated dining rooms and social areas. For added comfort and convenience, today’s purpose-built
conference centers usually provide on-site overnight accommodation, leisure facilities and free
parking.
Lane End Conference Centre was one of the first purpose-built conference centers in the UK. It opened
its doors in 1969 and today it boasts five distinct buildings each with a dedicated conference suite,
lounge, bar, dining room and a number of dedicated bedrooms for residential events.

CONVENTIONS IN NEPAL
In our context, the Dabali, Squares, Chowk, etc. was used for the any public functions. Pati, Chautara
in Village is even today used for the formal meeting. But these day people are slowly moving towards
enclosed space.

In present time, different functions like auditorium, conference, seminar, exhibition, library, gallery,
etc. take place in certain space with different forms.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Convention industry is regarded as an essence of a tourism that makes huge profit. On the aspect of
a nation, convention gives economic benefits and also promotes personal exchanges and cultural
exchanges. It also gives a chance to get advanced technologies and latest information.

Nepal stands popular as an international meeting destination in the world’s business community.
Conference halls and top hotels provide excellent meeting facilities at par with international
standards, while professional groups that include hotels and tour operators have eased the process
of organizing and managing these events. The International Conference Center in Kathmandu is a
state-of-the-art convention facility, consisting of numerous halls of different sizes with seating
flexibility to cater to various needs. The largest hall can accommodate as many as 1,046 people.
Convention centers apart, numerous standard conference facilities have been built into the luxury
hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Kathmandu’s connectivity to several cities of Asia and Europe by
direct flight makes the mesmerizing capital, with its many attractions, an ideal MICE destination. This
gateway to the Himalayan nation offers superb options for work and recreation to go together.
Delegates from around the world can enjoy in Nepal a Himalayan holiday even while at work.

MICE tourism is the new buzzword in international tourism market and relates to various forms of
tourism business concerned with groups of business individuals rather than individual business
travelers.

MICE stand for: Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions.

Nepal is a unique place for MICE tourism because of its natural beauty and extra activities that it has
to offer. Meeting, Incentive, Conference and Events are being popular activities of tourism business
in Nepal. The world class hotels and resorts are located in various touristic places around Kathmandu
valley and Pokhara valley. You can have various options for hotels and location. Either you want to
conduct the program in town or outside the town, you will get best venue in luxury hotel and resorts.
While you do program outside the city, you will get an opportunity to enjoy with the beauty of nature
that offers you extraordinary scenery and landscape.

Nepal offers a vast range of hotels, convention centers and conference facilities, from small to big for
a perfect selling. Katmandu offers a wide choice of conference centers. Besides the conference
facilities at the five star hotels, there are alternatives. Birendra International Convention Center has
state-of-the-art facilities for conferences and conventions with sophisticated audio, video, lighting,
communications, catering, ventilation and parking facilities.

Kathmandu has a number of international class hotels to suit every one’s fancies and finance. Soaltee
Holiday Inn Crown Plaza, Hotel Yak & Yeti, Hotel Everest, Hotel Annapurna, Hotel Radisson, Hotel
Hyatt, Hotel Shangri-La and Hotel Le Meridian are the five star hotels in Kathmandu. Outside
Kathmandu, there are some finest hotels/resorts such as Godavari Village Resort in Godavari (approx.
20 km from Kathmandu) and The Fulbari (one of the finest hotels in South Asia) in Pokhara.

History of MICE in Nepal:

 MICE is new paradigm of tourism in Nepal, started/highlighted since 1987 after 3rd SAARC
summit.
 Highlighted after cabinet meeting of 2011 in Mt. Everest Base Camp
 Gradually spread all over Nepal

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

 Lack of TSA, number of tourist arrival for MICE is not accounted but number of conventions
are increasing
 Center of thriving Trans -Himalayan trade for merchants not only exchange goods but also
ideas and philosophies
 Capital Kathmandu legacy as a meeting jaunt with international standard meeting facilities
pre and post conference tours
 Best place for MICE specially travel trade, caucus great location, excellent infrastructure,
comprehensive high tech convention facilities and expertise
 Conference, seminar or special incentive in different scenic splendors and unique blend of
cultures in Mountain, Hills and Terai.

Why MICE Tourism in Nepal.

 It is a peaceful and a safe destination. The Nepalese people, as diverse as they are, live in
harmony – perhaps fatalistic, perhaps content, but they take on the hardship of life with a
smile. Hinduism and Buddhism have co-existed so harmoniously in Nepal for centuries.
 It is a destination that will fire up the imagination of the delegates. They can have unique pre
or post tour programs especially designed to suit the budget and their liking and interests.
 Cultural and Natural Heritage site, three antique royal cities Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur
with old Historical Monuments
 Different conference centers in Kathmandu city, Birendra International Conference
Center(BICC) is a state-of-the-art convention facility, Rastriya Sabha Griha (City Hall), Nepal
Academy Hall, National Theater and number of luxurious hotels with meeting halls.
 Convention centers feature a wide variety of superbly equipped rooms under a single roof
also facilities like delegates in reception, theatre, classroom and U-shape style.
 The gadgets available include public address systems, tiepin microphones, cordless
microphones, overhead, slide and multimedia projectors also with TV screens, LED and laser
pane boards and laser pointers.

DESIGN CONSIDERATION AND GUIDELINES:

Exhibition hall

The Exhibition Spaces are intended as a combination of indoor and open-air exhibition space in
order to create a strong relation between covered and green open spaces through thematic
content. The goal is to create an integrated expositive landscape and a Visitor Experience that
immediately establishes a positive relationship between humankind and nature, creating a bridge
between the content of the Event and the nature of exhibition spaces.

The exhibition hall provides optimal conditions for

 trade fairs
 exhibits
 conventions
 events and galas

An exhibition hall can be

 Open-air exhibition space

 Covered exhibition space

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

OPEN-AIR EXHIBITION SPACE

The landscape design shall be developed in keeping with the Theme and with the Participant’s
approach to it. Like architecture, the landscape shall also help to tell intriguing stories about the
pleasures of the table, delightful scents or strange and curious stories related to food cultivation and
processing. The landscape has to document the most advanced research in the field of food
production and the transformation of agricultural products. Countries will showcase their
capabilities in food production, the biodiversity of their products, and their agricultural and food
supply chains.

Open spaces

A minimum of 30% of each lot must be dedicated to open areas and greenery. Excluding lot setbacks
the Open-air Exhibition Space represents around 50% of each lot, where it is possible to build:

 Structures used for plants ensuring soil permeability (e.g. trellises, pergolas, garden
structures, planters).
 Landscaping structure (e.g. structures used to retain soil or other materials, pools, exhibition
structures, art works).

COVERED EXHIBITION SPACE

Covered Exhibition Spaces are buildings or enclosed structures containing exhibition areas or other
spaces, including all overhanging upper floors or balconies. Participants may decide to build more
than one level within the Covered part of the Exhibition Space, based on their individual needs.

Height of Buildings

• The height of the Covered part of Exhibition Space (or Building Height) must be less than 12
meters.

• The height limit for any additional architectural elements (such as skylights, roof elements, vertical
connections to the roof, sunscreens, signals, etc.) is 17 meters.

Building Setbacks

• The setback from the main boulevard must be no less than 10 meters, in order to create a small
square.

• The distance between buildings and the side street shall be no less than 2 meters; there shall be
no building concession directly to squares, greens, streets or public spaces, without the 2 meters’
setback.

• The setback from the neighboring lot shall be no less than 3 meters.

• The distance between buildings shall comply with fire control requirements.

Indoor exhibition and Flow management

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

The indoor exhibition space design has to offer to visitors a full immersion in the Theme on the
human scale with content presented at every moment of the visit. The visitor should be guided on a
discovery of the exhibition content using the most innovative technology. The challenge lies in
getting beyond the outdated paradigm of queues and visitor flows to create an efficient, dynamic
and fluid experience.

Entrance/Exit - Queue Management

In order to enhance visitor ease and reduce queuing, the Organizer will set up a virtual queuing
system to improve Level of Service (LOS) by reducing waiting time and optimizing the waiting areas
of other uses.

Building entrances and exits shall be designed taking into account the surrounding conditions and
landscaping requirements.

 Exhibition spaces may have multiple entrances/exits on different sides of the lot. They must
provide differentiated access for visitors, including disabled, special reserved visitors,
reserved groups, workers and finally supplies/waste.
 If a main entrance for the Exhibition Space is planned, it cannot give onto the Decumanus.
This side of the lot may only have exits. The queuing area must not occupy or overflow onto
the Decumanus.
Goods entrance and waste removal are planned during the event closing hours and could be done by
using all pedestrian access except the Decumanus area.

General guidelines for planning all sorts of exhibitions can be summed up as:

 Visitors should be correctly oriented inside the exhibition area.

 Viewers should be able to move through the exhibit without being forced to walk past objects
they have already seen.
 Adequate space should be provided for visitors to move at different speeds. The circulation
space should also allow the visitor to take a quick look at the exhibits so that they can decide
which ones to examine in detail.
 A viewer tends to turn clockwise upon entering the exhibit area. Circulation pattern should
be designed with this in mind.
AUDITORIUM
The auditorium is the heart of building, where the primary activity of experiencing and presenting
performances take place. Audience seating is arranged to view the stage and the stage is a platform
from which the performer can be communicate to the audience. The relationship between the two
is very crucial for the success of convention centers. Mostly auditorium is designed to fulfill no of
purposes. The objective of designer will be to use 100% usage of space. Auditorium should be
designed in such a way that every member should be able to see and hear the performance of stage.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

General Design Criteria of Auditorium

1. Form/shape
Shape corrects the defects of sound in auditorium hall i.e. echo’s, excessive reverberation,
sound foci’s, dead spots etc. fan shape <100 degree is ideally best shape for auditorium. In
auditorium hall, the wall & ceiling is not perpendicular to each other as in other normal
rooms. Mostly less curve Concave shape is also considered. The size of hall is governed by
audience requirements, Visual & aural limitations.

Audience Requirements

Every member of the audience should be able to see and hear clearly

Visual Limitations

• For drama= 20m

• For Opera= 30m

• For dance= 20m

• For conference = 20m

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Aural Limitations

It refers to the distance across which speech, singing and music can be clearly heard without need of
amplification. For amplified sound dead acoustic is required, which is impossible in auditorium. So,
careful acoustical consideration is required for aural requirements. The Volume of unamplified
sound depends upon Volume, Shape, Size, internal finishes of auditorium & Reverberation time.

Size of Hall = min 0.6-0.9 m2/person Volume of Hall= 4- 4.5 m3/ person

Seating Planning

Seating planning in Auditoria help to spread music and it makes visibility clear. Acoustically,
concentric arch seating is preferable to focus the audience view towards stage. The first row > 3.6m
from the stage. The alternate seating plan can enhance the visibility. Mostly different size of seating
(Size difference of 2”) is provided to maintain the alternating seating which is not noticed by patron.

Seating Capacity

 minimum Dimension of seating with arms =500mm Without arms =450mm

 Seat height = 430-450 mm
 Angle of inclination= 7-9 degree with horizontal
 Back Height = 800-850mm
 Angle of inclination = 15-20 degree
 Seat Depth= 600-720 mm, reduced to 425-500mm when the seat is tipped
 Other Factors affecting seating is,
 Acoustics: Upholstery to satisfy the acoustic requirements, usually the level of absorbency
when unoccupied
 Ventilation & heating: Air supply or extract under a seat

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

 Upholstery: Thickness of padding should provide comfort & avoid fatigue, material of
padding and finish must satisfy fire regulations

Sightlines

Horizontal Sightlines

It is obtained from spectator’s psychological perception & viewing angle.

 Good view without head movement= 30 degree

 Good view with head movement = 60 degree

 Maximum perception angle = 110 degree

 With full head & shoulder movement= 360 degree

 So, fan shape less than 100 degree is preferable due to Sightlines & Acoustic reason in
Auditorium.

Vertical Sightlines

The longitudinal section is a parabolic stepped floor as a theoretical rake produced by the sightline
calculation. This gives every member of the audience similar viewing conditions. This may be
reduced to a single angle or series of angles when applied as described the rake will also be steep.
Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

This is satisfactory for a single tier of seating with no balconies and is especially appropriate for
open-stage formats.

Wheelchair location

Regulations require a minimum of six places for wheelchair users, or 1/100th of the audience
capacity, whichever if the greater. Their location as discrete areas can be at the rear, front, side or
within the seating; Wheelchairs can be centrally positioned by forming a bay off a cross-gangway.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

A wheelchair user should be able to sit with a party of friends not in wheelchairs, Sightlines from the
wheelchair should be checked, as should the sightlines of those audience members behind. Some
wheelchair users can transfer into auditorium seats.

Fly tower

Where there is a space dedicated for use as a stage, then it is essential to provide this with means of
suspension overhead. This suspension to be used for both scenic and lighting instruments. The grid
above the stage from where the suspensions come should provide clear walking space above the
personnel to move about over the floor area. The received wisdom is to place the pulleys supporting
the suspension bridge at high points.

Changing Room requirements

 It should have discrete access

 Be equipped with secure hanging space
 Have mirrors with good lighting over vanity tables
 Have separate toilets & showers
 Have audio/video feed from performance areas
 Be equipped with phones and power outlets

Rehearsal Rooms

 Enclosed space without natural light close to the dressing room

 Sound system, Lighting
 There should be at least one stage for the rehearsal of performances

Storage room

 20-25% of playing area

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Workshops for making scenery

 Should be exclude from main hall due to fire & limited space options
 4-5 times the area of main stage

Technical utilities

 Transformer room
 Medium & low voltage switch room
 Power batteries
 HVAC plants
 Fire sprinkler system

Cloakrooms

 Minimum 4m2 per 100 people

RESTAURANTS AND FOOD COURTS

 Should be planned to achieve variety of seating arrangements.
 Provide acoustic lobby between restaurant and kitchen.
 Access should be planned for guest.
 The service aisle should not be less than 0.9-1.35m if it is to be used by both trolleys and
guest.
 Waiter station should be located so as not to disturb guest.
 Ambience is an important factor in restaurant design: decoration, lighting should be an
integral part.
 Large regular space should be broken up

General Functional Layout of Restaurants:

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Spatial Requirements:

Functional areas Space allowed (%)

Receiving 5
Food storage 20
Preparation 14
Cooking 8
Baking 10
Ware washing 5
Traffic aisles 16
Trash storage 5
Employee facilities 16
Miscellaneous 2

Area Required:

 Per seat 1.5 – 2.15 sq. m.

 Ratio of service area to total area 25-50%
 Net kitchen area 15-25%

Aisle Width:

 Main – min. 2.00m wide

 Intermediate – min. 0.9m wide
 Side – min. 1.2m wide

Ceiling height of Dining room with respect to Floor area:

≤50 sq. m. 2.5m

>50 sq. m. 2.75m
>100 sq. m. 3.00m
Above or below galleries ≥2.5m
Receiving Area:

 The main variables affecting the amount of space needed for the receiving functions
are the number, type and type of the deliveries that are to be handled at one
time.
 Ease of opening, checking, moving and stack ability all have a bearing on the space are
required.

Serving Areas:

 Serving areas for most table facilities are planned as a part of the main cooking area and
separate space determination are not usually needed.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Dining Areas:

 Calculating the space requirements for dining

areas can be difficult because of the many
choices available.
 For example, the final space for the dining
space is dependent upon the following
variables:

1. Types of seating to be provided

2. Tables sizes desired
3. Table shapes desired
4. Pattern of table arrangements
5. Number of service stations needed

Walkaway Width Toilet Facilities

Table Arrangement:

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Typical Size & Shape of Dining Tables:

Factors for Restaurant Planning:

 The exterior appearance should communicate clearly, with signs, lighting and many
displays.
 From outside, people should be able to view the interior seating, style and features.
 Each type of restaurant needs a different identity. Ambience is an important factor in
restaurant design.
 Large regular spaces should be broken up into smaller, more important areas, if
necessary by screens or decorative features.
 Changes of levels are usually favored by caterers but are acceptable provided they
make a positive contribution to design, do not involve more than two or three steps,
and the main part of the restaurant is on the same level as the kitchen. Raised seating
areas should be protected by balustrades.
 The cash desk may be at the entrance, by service doors or within the kitchen area,
depending on the management system.

Food Courts:

 Large halls that house groups of small outlets selling a wide variety of specialist food
productions.
 With attractive displays and a market –style environment, food courts offers a pleasant
shopping environment and can be added to supermarkets beyond the check-outs.
 Storage space for one day’s trade.
 A bakery, a butcher, cafes & bars, ice cream parlor plus shops etc.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Shopping Malls

A Shopping center is a complex of retail stores and related facilities planned as a unified group to give
maximum shopping convenience to the customers and maximum exposure to the merchandise.

General characteristics of a Shopping Mall:

 The mall usually consists of the principal mall, the major pedestrian shopping street of the
project, and one or more subsidiary approach malls or access routes connecting the main mall
with the parking areas or adjacent streets.
 With few exceptions, all stores have their principle entrance on the main mall or, less
desirably, on approach malls, whether or not these stores have additional entrances to
parking lots or adjacent streets.
 The main mall can be on one level or on two or more superimposed levels. Each mall level
should, however, avoid slopes or steps within its own walkways to avoid hindrance to
shopping and a source of accidents.
 The mall can be:
 Open, with weather protection consisting solely of continuous canopies along the store
fronts,
 Completely covered but open to the air, or
 Completely enclosed, necessitating heating in winter and air-conditioning in summer.

General Design Criteria:

 Column Spacing: One of the significant dimensions in designing a mall is the width of the
frontages of stores. The common widths are 20, 25, 30 ft. with the last the most flexible.
 Store Depths: The stores with depth of 120,140 ft. are commonly used while sometimes the
store widths are increased to accommodate larger depths. In the case of basements, the
depths are reduced by 20 to 25 percent.
 Clear Heights: The clear heights vary from 10 to 14 ft. or more with 12ft as an average height.
The height should be adequate for air-conditioning ducts, recessed lights, and structural
system.
 Ducts & Shafts: While dealing with the ducts and shafts, mechanical engineers are set up to
schedule the location and sizes of the principal ducts and shafts to avoid serious future space
problems.
 Roof Equipment Concealment: Mechanical supports from the engineers are set up for the
provision of properly designed and located roof screens and enclosures.
 Exterior Walls: Depending upon the store’s requirements, service doors, public entrance
doors, trash rooms, show windows and other modular designs are suitably accommodated
for functionality without disturbing the visual effect.
 Traffic: The car capacity of road ways must be sufficient to accommodate the traffic generated
by the shopping center. Proper signal controls, reservoir lanes, divider strips and other traffic
control features must be provided.
 Parking: Adequate parking spaces should be provided as required.
 Visibility: Visual communication should be maintained through the use of open wells and
shop fronts.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

 Vertical Transportation: Comfortable and accessible transporters such as escalators,

elevators and staircases should be provided as requirement to avoid congestion.

Service Entry/Exits:

 Servicing involves the delivery of goods to the various stores and also the removal of thrash
and garbage.
 In the simple strip center, the servicing is customarily by an alley in the rear of the strip of
stores. It is desirable to conceal the alley from adjacent neighborhood areas by a wall or
landscaping. In the one-level regional suburban center, servicing is customarily by one of the
following:
 Underground Service tunnels: Usually under the mall, connecting directly to the tenant
leased basements.
 Service Courts: On the periphery of the building complex, usually partially shielded by 6 -
10’ masonry walls.
 Over-the-curb & Sidewalks: Service trucking routes on the site are often separated from
customer routes. These usually connect to fireproof passages at the rear of the stores.
Mezzanines are occasionally used to provide storage and non-selling space.

HVAC & Mechanical Services:

 Controls ensure occupant comfort, provide safe operation of the equipment, and in a modern
HVAC control system enable judicious use of energy resources.
 Sanitary and Electrical Duct must be provided at necessary yet convenient spaces.
 A mechanical control room is placed on top of every lift shaft to contain the counter weight,
pulleys and other mechanical systems.
 An electrical control room is provided usually in the basement to control the regular power
supply and backup power supply systems.

Outdoor Plaza:

 Outdoor public space free from vehicular movement.

 Public activities like strolling, sitting, eating, entertaining, passing leisure time, social
interaction and watching the world go by.
 Quality of plaza determined by livability and social interactions.

Atrium:

 Usually for natural lighting and aesthetics.

 Can also be designed to enhance buildings cooling system by the help of stack effect.
 Circulation space arranged around atrium space.
 Atrium also gives visual connection displays and shops on different levels thus establishing as
a common feature of commercial complex.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

PARKING
General Design Considerations:

 The parking spaces acts as a place for the ceremonies of Arrival & Departure.
 The basic requirements for parking spaces should be taken from the vehicle dimensions
whilst driving in a linear path, cornering and entering into and driving out of the parking
area.
 Parking can be done in various ways: inclined with various angles or perpendicular.
 Parking can also be done in basement or on surface outside the complex.
 Surface parking requires less space than the basement parking due to absence of columns.
 In case of basement parking, there should be enough provision to be economical in this
view but for highly commercialized areas where the land value is very high, this can be
feasible.
 In case of basement parking, a relatively narrow column grid pattern can be used, with
careful planning and design, reduce building cost and height without any loss of function.

Typical Vehicular Dimensions:

Typical Parking Layouts:

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Car Orientation:

Parking at 90° to access lanes Parking at 45° to access lanes

Ramps for Basement Parking:

 For each car ramp, the run must be
more than 5m long, with ramps that
can be up to 12% gradient.

Automobile Dimensions & Turning Radius:

Turning Circle Radius

Car Dimensions & Turning Radius

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY
1. Modular grids/Structural grids:
Structural grids are kept as large as practicable. For light-weight roofs with internal
heights of 12 meter to 15 meter or more, as required for large exhibition halls, column
spacing of 30 meter across the together with perimeter wall columns at 15 meter centres
are often adopted. The trusses spanning the bays are usually N- or V-braced, box sections
serving also as walkways to give access to overhead services. In larger halls space frames
are also used. Smaller halls are based on a 10 to 15-meter structural grid. The location of
columns has a considerable influence on booth layout and hence on circulation planning
and utility service grids.
2. Wall Construction:
The lower areas of walls should be resistant to scarping and in vulnerable places, like
external corner, corridors and entrances to goods doors or services elevators, extra
protection by covers or fenders is required. Other requirements are concerned with
combustibility and-where fire division is involved –the period of fire resistance. It is also
important to consider alternative uses to which the hall may be put. For meeting a sound
diffusive surface will invariably be necessary to echoes and air resonance from cross
reflections.
3. Ceilings:
As a rule, the ceilings of exhibition halls are left open for economy and to allow access to
ceiling mounted equipment. In the case of a hall providing a clear height of 5m (16ft) or
more, the view of the roof structure and associated engineering equipment is above 35
degrees from eye level over most of the floor and the visual intrusion will be minimal. If
necessary, this can be further camouflaged by:

• Mounting lighting battens and other terminal equipment in the same horizontal plane
so that the spaces above are screened.
• Selecting luminaries which provide a controlled distribution of light below this place.
• Having a uniform matt dark (black, gray, brown) color of high chrome in the ceiling
void
• For halls of lower height, a formed ceiling construction is usually desirable, particularly
if hall is to serve for other purposes. The ceiling must be paneled to allow access to
the equipment above and to satisfy other criteria:
• Easy access, without damaging the panels.
• Easy-to-clean, permanent surfaces for wiping off hand marks.
• Robust to withstand handling.
• Incombustible or very low rate of surface flame speed (class 0 to 1).
• Modular with luminaries, air diffusers, loudspeakers, sprinkler systems etc.
• Sound absorbency, depending upon the multiple use of hall.
• Aesthetic acceptability for the use as a banquet hall or congress hall.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

4. Roof Construction:
Exhibition halls are usually clear wide span structures. So in case of roof construction it
makes some complication with its large spanning property. So the construction
technology for the roof is selected according to the requirement of the building. There
are different technologies by which one can build the structure. In country like Nepal,
concrete technology is widely used for the different type of structures. It gives flexibility
of the shape but giving some restriction to the spanning size. There are other technology
using steel and glass. This technology gives the flexibility to the design as well as span.
Today the world is using this technology in a very wide range for constructing building like
conference centers, exhibition centers, auditorium, concert halls, etc.
LONG-SPAN STRUCTURE
A question can always be aroused that “how long is long span for buildings?” The answer
to this question is that the structure with span larger than 20m is called a long span
structure. This type of span is unable to be achieved by ordinary RCC structure.
Long span or complicated structures can be constructed used different construction
technologies. There are different types of structure which should be constructed using
the appropriate methods. They are mentioned as below:
I. Flexible and non-rigid elements: These types of structures can be constructed using
three different methods. They can be constructed in the form of arches, cables and
tents. The height of arch in this case can rise with the span of the structure, while the
tents are high tensioned structures and are made from special textile. These can cover
up to 100m span.
II. Flexible but Rigid Elements: These types of structures can be constructed using three
different methods. They can be constructed in the form of shell, plates and domes.
Shells structures can be made if the ratio of the thickness to the span is 2.4” to 100”.
It can be constructed using RC, plastic, glass, metal, ply etc.
III. Rigid, Solid and Linear Elements: These types of structures can be constructed using
three different methods. They can be constructed in the form of beam frame and slab.
IV. Trusses: Truss is very much in use these days. Different kinds of trusses are used to
cover different types of structure and of different spans. The large span buildings can
be constructed using flat, curved or space truss.
Analysis of Long Span Structure
Long span roof is today widely applied for sport, social, industrial, ecological and other
activities. The experience collected in last decades identified structural typologies as
space structures, cable structures, membrane structures and new - under tension -
efficient materials which combination deals with lightweight structural systems, as the
state of art on long span structural design.
Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Long span structures are today widely applied mainly for sport buildings as:
- Stadia
- Sport halls
- Olympic swimming pools
- Ice tracks and skating rinks
- Indoor athletics
Space structures
- Single layer grids
- Double and multi-layer grids
- Single and double curvature space frame
Reflected
Cable structures
73% Outside 7%
- cable stayed roofs
- suspended roofs SUN
- cable trusses
- single and multilayer nets
Membrane structures Absorbed 14% Re- radiated
- pre-stressed anticlastic membranes
- pneumatic membranes
Convertible roofs Transmitted
- overlapping sliding system 13% Inside 7%
- pivoted system
- folding system
Sheer fill fabric

Nowadays a new kind of materials is being used in large structures in place of the
conventional material that is glass. This material is called the Sheer Fill membranes. Features
of sheer fill membranes are:
 Provides aesthetics and performance benefits to glass glazing
 Diffusion of light through it eliminating glare.
 Weather and fire resistant.
 The material is flexible, high tensile strength thus it is elastic.
 Display illumination broadly to the space below.
 This material is immune to Ultra Violet radiation.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

CASE STUDIES
International Convention Center, Baneswor
Location: New Baneswor, Kathmandu

Design & Aid: People republic of China

Style: Neo Traditional

Plot Area: 7.75 hectares

Built up area: 12573 (16%)

Capacity: 1004 Seats main Conference hall,

250 seats medium sized assembly hall,

Four smaller meeting rooms suitable for 100 and

50 delegates,

480 sq. m. Multifunction hall.

Exhibition hall with 308 sq. m. floor area.

Selection Criteria
 Similar function
 Spatial relationship & Design approach Study

Auditorium and conference halls design

Surrounding context
The complex is located in commercial area. It is
close to the international airport on the east and
is nearer to the Everest hotel on the west. Its
location is prime importance being in center of
city.

Access and parking

ICC premises can be accessed through three gates. The main gate is in the south and is controlled
automatically. The two gates in the west side, one for the use of logistic personnel and transportation
vehicle in and out and the other is mainly for the use of business complex of the ICC i.e. provision of
separate pedestrian and vehicular entry from the western road as well. The parking area is
designated on both the left and right side of the convention building. The area is big enough to
accommodate 400 cars.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Functional analysis

The entrance hall in ICC is very grand and fascinating to the visitors. It is 30m wide, 18m long and
10m high. It contains various halls as following

Sagarmatha Hall - 1004 main conference hall

Nuptse Hall - 250 seats medium sized assembly hall
Four smaller meeting rooms respectively suitable for 100 and 50
delegates
Lohtse - 480 sq. m multifunction hall
Kailash - grand exhibition hall named with 308 sq. m floor area.
The axis is well defined. The main entrance to building lies on the same axis as that of southern
entrance.
The main building mainly comprises of three parts:
 Entrance hall and auditorium in the middle

 Medium sized hall, meeting rooms and VIP chamber on the east

 Multipurpose hall on the west.

Entrance Hall

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

It is double height grand entrance foyers which also

serve as an exhibition space during several
functions and also act as spill out area for the
auditorium. The ICC entrance hall leads to the
auditorium, from its right goes to the medium sized
hall and small meeting hall whereas its left side lays
the multifunctional hall. There are two grand
staircases on the entrance foyer that leads to the
gallery.
The lounge and hosting halls for VIP are at the back
of the conference section, connected with the large and small conference halls and stage
respectively, having their own entrance, exit and car park.

SAGARMATHA HALL (MAIN CONVENTION HALL)

The auditorium with 1201 sq. m of floor area and 484 sq. m of stage area holds 1004 seats. In the
front there were 360 seats for representatives and in the back there were 166 seats for observers.
478 seats in the gallery are for journalists and publics. This Sagarmatha hall was mainly served for
international conferences, theatrical performance and movies. It was equipped with simultaneous
interpretation system in 6 languages. The auditorium is flanked with lounges and other facilities such
as bank, post office, bar, small shop and phone booth. But now it is modified as Constitution
Assembly hall after 2007 of constitution assembly.

 Floor area = 1201 m2

 Stage area = 484 m2

Seating
 Seat width = 0.6m

 End aisle width = 2.1m

 Central aisle width = 1.2m

In balcony
 Tread width = 0.85m

 Riser height = 0.35m

 Gangway width = 1.5m

 Exit doors width = 1.4m

Facilities
 Projection room = 32 sq. m

 Sound control room = 36 sq. m

 Light control room = 15 sq. m

 Interpretation booth = 6 sq. m

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

 Toilets
Acoustic treatments
 Carpeted floor on the gangways and parquet on the seating areas

 A combination of wooden boards, glass wool and wire mesh on the walls

 Undulating ceiling with reflective surface

 Sound proof doors used for sound insulation

 AC ducts on the walls of auditorium acting as air cavity for sound insulation

 Projector room, sound control room and interpretation room as the buffer space for noise

insulations

LOSTSE HALL
With an area of 480 square meters the multi-function hall can be served for medium sized
conference, exhibition, theatrical performance and dance party. It also provides 450 seats in the chair
arrangement. It has access to open landscaped court i.e. rock garden.
Large windows on north and south admit sufficient natural light. An outstanding ceiling design with
decorative lighting fixtures

NUPTSE, GAURI, SHANKAR, KOSHI AND GANDAKI

The medium sized hall (Nuptse) is specialized in medium sized conference with 250 fixed seats of
table and chair designed to suit more intimate conference or seminars. ICC has two 100 seated halls
(Gauri and Shankar) and two 50 seated halls (Koshi and Gandaki). The floor area being 190 sq. m and
105 sq .m respectively. Both rooms can be separated in half by movable partitions. All these rooms
are installed with movable tables and chairs.

Exhibition hall
 On the second floor is the exhibition hall with an area of 308 sq.m. where different kind of

exhibition can be held.

 The hall is facilitated with sufficient day lighting with the large windows n all the three sides and

the height of the hall is about 14’

 The exhibition hall is large enough and is not

obstructed by the columns during exhibition or

other trade shows
 Also the gallery space which is 4m wide and the

entrance foyer on the ground floor is used during

exhibition
 The office area on the first floor lies in the

eastern wing. The central foyer of the office area is

open to the sky with pergolas on the top which
gives enough light and this space also act as
interaction space

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Circulation
Main entrance lies on the southern part and the main entrance of the building lies on the same axis.
 Circulation corridor: 6m

 Service corridor: 2m separate service entrance from the west leading to the pantry area of the

multi-function hall
 Service staircase each 1m wide is provided separately for the auditorium and multifunctional hall

Space Analysis
The analysis of different space is as follows:

S. Description Capacity Area(m2) Per person

N area(m2)

1. Entrance foyer 540 0.5

2. Auditorium 1004 1685 1.6

3. Multifunctional hall 480 1.9

4. Medium sized hall 250 2.1

5. Seminar hall 100 190 1.9

6. Seminar hall 50 105 2.01

7. Exhibition hall 308

Services
 ICC has full frame of supporting facilities that include security, utilities communications and the

others
 The affiliated construction include substation, freezing plant, boiler house, underground fuel

depot, water treatment plant, water storage pool, pump house, water tower, guard house and toilets
 Fire alarm system consisting of photoelectric smoke detectors, manual call point, hydrant lines,

water sprinkler, fire extinguisher, fire rolling shutter, emergency announcement system and well
trained technicians
 Electricity supply by two city power transmission lines and 250 KW diesel generators for backup

 Two distinct central air conditioning systems for summer and winter seasons. Consist of chiller

plant and boiler plant

 A pantry is fully equipped with ice- machine, electric heater, table ware sterilizer, and washing

machine and coffee maker facilities for small banquets, cold drinks and snacks, coffee-making and
so on

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Construction and Technology

The roof of the auditorium, medium sized hall, the multi-purpose hall and the communal are
constructed with steel truss structure bolted together by the method of ball- type junctions. The
foundation of the main building and the affiliated works of BICC consist of 1065 reinforced concrete
piles built in place and 762 aggregate driven piles

Architectural expression
Style
 Blend of traditional style and modern style.

Traditional style roofing laid in perfect symmetry

with black colored glass.
Form and proportion
 The form of the building is symmetric along

the axis of entry

 Rectangular form, huge massing, courtyard

planning and use of symmetry

 Use of vertical stripes on the façade, for

creating the effect of verticality, since building View showing architectural style of the complex
height is less compared to the length.
 Design of gates and the other smaller building resembles to the architecture of the main building.

Elements of visual communication

 Symmetrical elevation
 A huge fountain of 24m diameter on the front act as a focal point at the entrance
 Use of 81 flagpoles each of 15m in front of fountain also act as element of visual communication

Design Inferences
Zoning
Functional Requirements & Spatial Planning
Convention Planning

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Rastriya Nach Ghar:

 National Theatre cum commercial complex

 Architect- IECS
 Land Area= 5-2-0-0
 Capacity= 750
 Front part= commercial
 Inner Part= Theatre
 Basement-parking, electrical,
mechanical room
 GF- Shopping and green space
 1F- Hall & Foyer
 2F- Balcony hall & office
 3F- Office
 Top floor- technical space (above
ceiling)

Selection Criteria

To study auditorium requirements

Planning

 Auditorium away from noisy road

 Foyer as buffer Space
 Construction technology: frame structure, cavity wall & multilayer roof with metal truss
 Arch style: Neo traditional, Exposed Brick, slope roof tile
 Material Brick, Tile, RCC, CGI sheet, Parquet, Vinyl tile,
Velvet curtain, bamboo ply, teak ply, planks, acoustic ceiling,
POP
 Construction period 2059-2062
 Space Organization in Theatre
 3 Parts
 Entrance, ticket counter, foyer, etc.
 Auditorium

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

 Stage: Front stage, back stage, wings, green room, rehearsal room

Other Spaces

 Technical spaces
 Projection room
 WC
 Stair, ramp, lift
 Open courtyard (Dabali)
 Gallery

Circulation in theatre Wall section used in Nach Ghar

 Pedestrian entrance, Vehicle entrance, VIP entrance
 Ticket Counter in entrance
 Exit directly to open air & fire Escape metal stair from Hall
 Foyer with WC, smoking area, waiting seats, etc.

Acoustic Design for Auditorium Hall

Shape & Size

Main Hall with 600 seats

Balcony with 150 seats

Approx. maximum length is 24m with Orchestra

pit

The shape is such that view and audibility is better

Cyclorama- flex Screen on the back of stage

Projection room back of balcony

The length of the hall = 24m approx.

The breadth of the hall = 19m

The height of the hall =10.82m

The shape of hall is fan shape <100 degree

The size of hall= 0.5 sq. m/ Audience & Volume per person= 4.5 m3/person

Ventilation= 5m3 /person

Stage

The stage has parquet flooring. The splays of the proscenium reflect sound to the audience. The
scenery and backdrops also contribute to conditions for good hearing. The curtains used in the stage
are of velvet which is a good sound absorber.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Area of the proscenium = 6m x 9m at the height of 0.9m

Height of the proscenium = 6m
Seating Arrangement

Concave Shape
Seating Concentric Circle, first row of seat from stage 5.8m
Stage is raised 1.8m from floor level
The rise of level between seats is 15cm
Inclination of seat is 11 degree
Materials used in the seats are velvet and timber which act as good sound absorber thus even if
the hall is not fully seated by audience the acoustics of the hall is still maintained. The floors are
provided with PVC.

The seating has been raked (a total of 14 steps from the lowest seating level to the highest seating
level) to provide good sight line as well as a good sound line

Flooring- Carpet

Wall

The side of the hall is parallel in front and rear. The wall of hall is made
of cavity with use of wooden panels & acoustical material. The hall has
460 mm brick wall with 60mm cavity. The construction of the wall
consists of multilayer construction of inner shear wall, cavity in between
and external brick wall.

Ceiling

Specially designed sound absorbing materials like suspended acoustical

tiles in particular are used in the ceiling. The tiles act both as sound
absorbers and sound reducing barriers. These tiles are ‘random
perforated cellulose fiber tiles’ and are prefabricated, factory finished materials.

False ceiling near the proscenium is reflective to reflect stage sound to rear the part of hall. Rear
portion of ceiling is treated with sound absorbing materials to control audience noise and
reverberation. All the Technical space is housed above the ceiling.

Furniture

Furniture is of wooden and seats are upholstered in leather which acts as a good sound absorbent

Doors

Instead of simple flush doors, special types of doors are provided for sound insulation. Since sound
insulation and transmission loss of doors increase with weights, heavy doors have been used
which have a thickness of about 100mm.

The total no of doors = 6

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Sound Reinforcement

The loud speakers are placed on the both sides of the proscenium and also on the side walls at a
suitable height to facilitate the balcony audience as well. Control mechanisms have been used in
from the sound control room at the rear of the hall to maintain the quality of amplified sound.

Roof

The main structural component supporting the roof is the steel trusses and the corrugated sheeting
has been used for the covering. To prevent the noise produced on the corrugated sheet due to rain
“jhingati tiles “has been used on the roofing and also plywood planks below the sheets. Again,
acoustical tile has been used on the visible portion of the ceiling which also gives better aesthetic
looks to the ceiling, thus concealing all the mechanical and service cables and ducts

Technical and mechanical rooms

The electrical and mechanical room is located in the basement of the building. The service cables and
ducts on the upper part of the auditorium i.e. the catwalk is insulated by the mineral fiber board.

Back Stage

 Green Room- ladies & Gents

 Make up rooms with wash room
 And changing room with wardrobe
 Rehearsal room

Inferences

Technical parts of Auditorium

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Exhibition Complex, Bhrikuti Mandap

Introduction

The exhibition complex in Bhrikuti Mandap is one of the first exhibition complex introduced in
Nepal. This exhibition space was introduced by the His Majesty’s government of Nepal in
2021B.S. This kind of architecture at that period of time was considered more sophisticated
because this complex was different than the other buildings built in conventional style.
Kathmandu is rich in culture and tradition with court, open urban spaces are developed,
Exhibition complex on the other hand is modern form for this age.

Location

The exhibition complex is located in the heart of the Kathmandu city adjacent to the city bus
park and 6 Km far from Tribhuvan International Airport. Several monumental buildings like the
Royal Palace, Singha Durbar and also temples like Bhadrakali and Mahankaal lies in its close
proximity. A lot of social and religious establishments gravitate around it. The place sits right
across the exhibition road and the nomenclature of the road itself comes from the ever popular
facility of Bhrikuti Mandap.

Site and Surrounding

The Bhrikuti Mandap is slightly lower form the level of Tundikhel. The site provided for the
exhibition is more appropriate in terms of services as transportation, commercial facilities,
Hotels, etc. Site is located at center of Urban Area.

Design Consideration of the complex

The present design of Bhrikuti Mandap is very much focused on the proposed initial design. The
exhibition ground is centralized with crushed stone paved pathways on cardinal directions. But
the concept is modified and the proposed Exhibition ground is converted as Adult Park garden.
There are two entryways- one leading to the exhibition hall and stall areas and another that
leads to the dragon world, the amusement area. The dragon world has a separate exit way. With
change in time, big hall is built as per the demand of permanent structure.

Basically the design is considered on different sectors. Eastern part is developed as children’s
park, west and south part is provided for open lawn but to this date, land is taken as parking
area where as the south wing is provided as permanent Exhibition hall. Central concentrated
circle is used as an adult park with several fringe gardens. The third part is covered with stalls
with different offices and shops. The end peripheral areas are over crowed with Khula Bazars
and are also famous as Hong Kong Bazar. The road projection on diagonal axis is drawn on
efficient way as tried to do more facilitating the spaces. But the peripheral areas are not
approached with pathways. It seems that these areas are at greater distance from the center.
The concept of sustainability is greatly over flowered on the proposal design with the open
exhibition system on the ground which is not embraced on the existing exhibition ground due to
design considerations.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Analysis of its Facilities/ Components

At present Bhrikuti Mandap comprises of many components which range from recreational to
commercial and social facilities, which are as follows:

1. Permanent exhibition all

2. Dragon world/ Children’s park

3. Adult’s park

4. Hong Kong Bazaar

5. Stall areas converted into shops and offices

6. department of immigration

7. Tourist Service Center/ NTB office

8. Lawn

In a total of nearly 200 ropanies of land, these facilities have been distributed as:

Children’s Park 14.55%

Adult’s Park 11.67%

Exhibition Hall 3.8%

NTB office 3.5%

Hong Kong Bazaar 15.7%

Supporting Area 35%

Road network 10.6%

Lawn 5.23%

The Exhibition Hall

The main exhibition hall of the Bhrikuti complex covers

an area of 3250m2 on the ground and is laid out in
conformity with the semicircular road bounding the
hall. It is a simple structure laid out in grids of 6m by
20m. The 6m high triangular truss stands above 6m
from the ground and holds a GI sheet roof. A clear 6m
height within the hall gives a flexible space for
exhibition and the day lighting brought in by the roof
light spares the wall area punctured for lighting
purpose. This adds to the flexibility of the interior space.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

It also complies with the standard requirement of clear wall area up to a height of 6m for an
exhibition hall. It is the one and only exhibition hall, yet pushed aside from the main entrances to
the exhibition ground. It lacks several amenities like storage rooms, Lavatory and an office space for
the exhibition organizer and even parking facility. There are a number of entry and exit doors giving
flexibility for multiple choice of laying out the floor plan for exhibition.

The hall is an empty box without any facilities. The

designing hall is quite appropriate for small and
medium level exhibitions but it cannot cater for
lager exhibitions in a proper way. So it does not
meet any standard exhibitions facilities in standard
fairs, expos and these kinds of events.

Zoning of the Bhrikuti Mandap Complex Fig: The interior of the hall showing skylight

The ground can be studied with dividing different Zones as below:

Exhibition zone:

The main hall is acting as a shade without any facilities so the concept is not clear on the context of
Nepalese society about the exhibition fairs etc. The hall is empty box without any toilet, water
supply, store, sound and lighting room and other facilities. The design hall is quite appropriate for
small and medium exhibition in terms of size but it could not be sufficient for an idle exhibition in
proper way. So it does not meet any standard exhibition facilities in international standard expos,
fairs and these kinds of events.

The north wing of exhibition ground is converted as Adult Park. This is opened for office hour and
days with entry fee. The parks with monuments semi covered pavilion, water pond is fragile art of
the ground but the lack of proper maintenance is the degrading point to the exhibition ground. But
still some open to air exhibitions are held here.

Different programs like food festival, film shooting, etc. are launched inside of the garden but the
lack of proper maintenance make repulsion to such activities. There is not a great attraction event in
garden is considered as a part of heaven. Part of its land is worked out as a Nursery House. Opening
time is very limited and spaces are not well busy with an activity, this is basic reason behind the
derogation of the park area. The North West lawn is also a part of open to air exhibition but in the
present date it has been used as parking space.

Amusement Zone

The northern east wing as a children park is embraced as an exhibition ground. It is carrying its own
identity and regularly progressed with the mobilization of different programs. Children’s Park is
worked out as isolated part, diverted through the separated gateways and there is no
interconnection between the children’s park and the exhibition ground.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Although the proposed design of Children Park is not considered for the future demand and
extension, it becomes one of the important entertainment world due to introduction of the Dragon
World. Because of such new entertainment games the good investment is itself carved out on the
exhibition ground and becomes a center of attraction. But still certain obstacles to the children’s
park are seen like the fencing problems. Fencing through the board and as a part of advertising
board, has drastically deteriorating the park. It has act as a visual barrier to the inside world. This has
badly affected the psychological restriction and same oddness and insecure feeling to the people. As
an architecture element, it should be visual art but here the art is covered with veil.

Commercial Zone

About ninety stalls are constructed in appropriate size and shape in order to sustain. They are
established to provide maximum benefit and comfort to visitor with short distance path but the
proposed design is not properly managed. The concept of the exhibiting Fairs, events, shows are
changing. Mobilization of the spaces and the mass is not demand of today. Integration of spaces and
mass in proper ways is basic concept of exhibitions. Today the supporting zone covered with small
shops which catering the neighborhood Khula Bazaar.

Due to long route of the stalls and scattering manner makes repulsion to visitors. There is no easy
service route which is main defect on the planning. On the proposed design the permanent
structure of the Exhibition hall is not considered, and it is later built over hiding supporting area.

Shops of the Tundikhel (Khula Manch) were relocated towards the free areas in bank of the Bhrikuti
Mandap. This market area is developed in much devastating way and destroying the cityscape and
beauty of the Exhibition Ground. This bazaar covers 15.7% of the total Exhibition ground. The bazaar
lies on the lower gradient from the road and has drastically changing the vision of the surrounding.
The land of the exhibition complex near to Prithivi Marg is very high cost land but today the land is
seen to be cheap. The purpose of the planning is diverted from the master plan. It seems that Khulla
Bazaar is increased due to lack of proper management.

Institution Zone

The office of administration along with some other offices is sited in this zone which was also not in
initial planning. A part of North West wing is covered with Tourism Board which is drawn for
different purposes and program. The area coverage by it is 3.5% which is positive aspect for the
Exhibition ground. The administration has leased the land to Nepal tourism board for 99 years.
There are some other offices too which are located in this zone. This zone lies in the North West of
the site.

Conclusion

The provision of sufficient gateways on the main exhibition road defines different nodal point as
servicing facilities. The basic purpose of the Exhibition ground not only focused on Fairs but also on
entertaining people in different ways as time demands. The location of site is much more

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

appropriate regarding all the aspects of the Exhibition facilities. Through the analysis it is seem that
the ground has not cater different activities for different time schedule. The basic reason of it is that
design of this ground is not intentionally build for breathing activities and to meet today’s facilities
like cinemas, theatres and restaurants.

During exhibition and fairs, the shops running within the areas of the Bhrikuti Mandap are run in
profitable way but at the time of off season these shops are closed due to lack of customers.
Furthermore, the standard of the shops are also could not maintained by the hygienic and quality of
shops are below general people so that people of outside areas of the Bhrikuti mandap does not
prefer to go there for shopping purpose. The space and land were not carved as exhibition facilities.
Children Park is fulfilling and providing entertainment to the citizens in spite of limited and compact
area provided for that purpose. The introduction of the Dragon world has keeping positive impact
on the society and hopefully increasing with in few years.

Lots of stall and built areas like ticketing house is not well integrated to each other. It seems that
there is not proper condition of services regarding toilet, solid waste, dumping and improper
landscaping, insufficient lighting and water supply. The basic requirement for the exhibition is Big
Store for the machineries, installation room, sound and lighting room are not available in the
exhibition ground even it is only exhibition complex in the country.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Auditorium, Russian Cultural Center:

Introduction

Russian Culture Center is located in Kamal Pokhari. This building houses offices, an auditorium,
conference halls and library also. The case study was done here to study mainly the auditorium and
the conference hall. The auditorium is a small one and has the capacity of 191 seats. The conference
hall has the capacity of 50 seats. All the functional spaces in this center are arranged around the
central foyer. The wide corridor on the first floor is used as a space for the exhibition purpose.

Analysis of Auditorium

 The auditorium is a small one with 191 seating capacity.

 The auditorium is fan shaped and the seats are arranged in a

slightly curvilinear pattern.

 There is a good provision of fire escape and fire hydrants are

used for fire safety.

 AC system is used for the mechanical ventilation.

 There are altogether ten rows of seats.

Fig: Auditorium
 The width of each seating step is 3’-6” and height being 1’-2”.

 The distance from to first row from the stage is 7’-10”.

 Width of the gangway is 3’-6”.

 Wide wings and backstage alley with green rooms and store.

 Efficient acoustical treatment on floor, walls, the ceilings and the stage.

 There is an efficient circulation pattern with multiple entry and exits.

 There is c common entrance foyer i.e. no separate foyer for the auditorium.

Analysis of Conference Hall

The conference hall of Russian Culture is a 50 seated audio-visual hall. The total area of this hall is 84
sq. m. (10.5m X 8m). The area is separated on the basis of 1.68 m2/person. The conference hall has
double height with proper acoustical treatment on wall floor and ceiling. There is also a good
provision of fire exits and AC system.

Literature Study of Auditorium

 Maximum site line from the balcony to the stage is 30.

 Halls with higher ceilings are good for concerts.

 Halls with lower ceiling good for drama.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

 Fixed self-operable folding seats are preferable

 In multiple aisle seating, there should be maximum

12-17 seats on the middle rows and maximum 6-9
seats on the corner rows.

 The width of each seat should not be less than

50mm.

Fig: Requirement in an auditorium

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

City Hall (Rastriya Sabha Griha)

Introduction

City hall was designed in 2057 by the first

architect of Nepal, Gangadhar Bhatta. It was
built at the time when the architecture was
blooming from its bud. The importance of hall
lies in its architectural expression and space
efficiency. The city hall is managed by the
Metropolitan City Office of Kathmandu,
houses an auditorium, administrative office,
and few shopping outlets accessible only from
outside and has served for many performing
arts as well as a milestone for the
development of modern architecture in the exterior view of the city hall
valley.

Objective of study

 To study the functional relationship between the various spaces, both exterior and interior
 Make study comparative area assessment for auditorium and supplementary facilities
 To study the architectural character of public building
Location:

It is located at the centre of the city in the exhibition road, Bhrikuti Mandap.

Surrounding context:

Adjacent to the complex are the Bus Park, Mahendra Police Club, Nepal Tourism Board and Bhrikuti
Mandap Exhibition Hall. It is easily accessible from all part of the valley since it lies at the center of
the city. Since the site lies lower the main road it can be perceived by the passerby walking around
the location. It is one of the appreciated built forms in terms of architectural expression.

Area of the site:

The site occupies the total area of 32 ropanies.

Functional analysis

There are separate entrances that lead to the main hall, Administrative office, and also separate
entrance is provided for the VIP at the west. The ground floor houses administrative office, and café.
The staircase in the center is there providing a vertical access to the first floor. This is a provisional
access for the office and can be defined as an escape route in case of emergency.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

A large skeletal staircase at the front leads people directly towards the main foyer whereas the office
area is hidden from direct approach. Service entrance is also hidden which is located at the east side
with a provision for vehicular access. The complex seems to be planned about the axis created by
the main entrance.

Foyer

The foyer space in the city hall is more defined and usable as
it also acts as a spill out area, gathering and interacting space
and also the space for holding exhibition. The foyer space is
designed as a mezzanine opening up two floors. The foyer
enjoys the depth of height as a void is introduced on the
second floor.

Auditorium view on foyer space

 The auditorium is accessible through the main wide staircase via a foyer.
 The hall has a capacity of 670 audiences.
 The auditorium has two aisles, which divides the seating into three parts.
 There is a single row balcony at the top.
 The auditorium is facilitating with AC facility.
 The hall is covered by timber truss and asbestos sheet. As the hall is not designed for theatrical
performances, there is no orchestra pit. Separate changing rooms and dressing room have been
provided at the back stage.

First floor plan of city hall

Section of auditorium

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Seminar hall

There are two seminar halls at the two side of the hall on the second floor. Each seminar hall has a
capacity of 100 persons each and it has temporary chairs arrangement.

Architectural Expression

Architectural style: modern

Based on modern principles of design, the building

reveals the symmetric nature along the axis of entry.
The building exhibits dynamic nature in form. Various
forms used create a variety in design. Use of different
colors and textures for different surfaces adds visual
interest in the exterior look. Vertical linings on the front
façade give verticality to the structure.

Fig: view from the road side

Elements of visual communication

The uniquely designed gate is in perfect harmony with the building form. Entrance to the main
buildings is through the dominating and dynamic gate structure which seems to have been built in
perfect harmony with the auditorium. The wide external staircase leading to the first floor entrance
foyer reflects the public nature of the building. Front landscape lawn with plantation and water body
as the elements of visual interest. Projecting blocks of auditorium also creates visual interest in the
building.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

view of uniquely designed gate

view of landscape area from the top

Material used

 Bricks used in the wall.

 Steel frames and glass for window.
 RCC for structural members/ louvers
 Timber planks for stage, seats and door panels.

Building forms

The building has been symmetrically designed. Composition of the different geometrical blocks and
varying architectural treatment represents variety in design, yet the composition as a whole seems
balanced. The building has been symmetrically designed and it has an interesting façade with a soothing
color combination, which provides an interesting form.

Inferences:

 The massing of different forms, its color combination and façade treatment makes this
symmetrical design remarkable.
 Adequate foyer area is necessary for an auditorium. Void above foyer creates openness.
 Well organized flow divergence created by introduction of open wide staircase. An
evidence of emphasis for pedestrians
 The landscaping greenery and water body are interesting and attractive, the play with
differently textured material like coarse aggregate and fine cement and bricks are
admirable.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC)

Location: Cybercity, Hyderabad

Site: 15 Acres

Capacity: 5000

Architect: EMAAR Group

It is first green gold certified convention center. It is 32 km far

from Rajiv Gandhi Airport

Selection Criteria

Similar function & catering internal standards in south Asian region

Similar site condition

To study spatial planning

Parking

It can park 300 cars at surface & there is provision 1000+ car
parks. In addition there is 25 parking for bus & 500 two wheelers.

Visitor Parking

The visitor can park the vehicles either in the front or rear
depending on the mode of transportation .in case of meetings
and conventions the visitors are dropped near the main entrance
approached by a roundabout.

Main entrance approached by 8m wide road.

Parking for 300 cars at the surface level at the centre itself for
delegates

The Hyderabad international convention Centre's car park

entrance is at the western side of the building, accessible from
traffic lights off the HITEX city

Basement parking spaces for 1000+ are available for long-term

parking under novotel only

Parking for staff

Secondary parking lot is available at the service

Zone for the service trucks and staff vehicles

For VVIP drop point is from eastern side of the centre, to provide direct access for the guest at the centre

Circulation

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Delegate Flow: Eastern Side

For an Important group of persons for the conference. From the secondary entrance hall VIP hall be able
to go to any place like committee room, main hall or exhibition area as the need.

Staff Flow: Eastern Side

Flow is engaged in different activity to staff entrance, from where the path of administrative and technical
staff diverge

Delegate /Staff Flow: Northern Side

For The Administrative Staff, which is exposed to the people coming to the centre and for special guest
,direct to the meeting areas and banquet halls.

Public Flow: Western Side

For Guests

For Parking lot -> Reception Area -> Main Hall -> lounge -> café/ bar/restaurant/ toilets/ exhibition
spaces/hotel

Zoning

Horizontal Zoning

First zone: delegates visiting the centre

Second Zone: Hall

Third Zone: service spaces

Fourth Zone: administrative offices

Vertical Zoning

The planning of HICC has been done so as to

segregate the users. This is done on the three floors
which cater to different class of people.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Ground floor

Reception areas

Organizers offices

Main convention halls

Restaurants

Flexible rooms and is meant for the general public

and delegates

First floor

Board rooms

Business centre

Gallery seating

Flexible rooms and is meant for the business officials

Second floor

The second floor caters to the high profile guests having

the conference rooms, V.I.P. Lounges

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Vision Arrangement

The retractable seating arrangement offered good vision towards the main focus. However, the
halls all having a flat roof proved disadvantageous to viewers seated on it.

Even with a raised platform, if uninterrupted vision is

not worked out correctly, the delegate suffers.

Entrance & Lobby

HICC entrance has huge lobby that can accommodate

500 people & has the required infrastructure including
registration booths, information kiosks, foreign
exchange & small shops, dining area. It has area of 130
sq. m.

The additional reception area at the entry of the Convention Centre has an additional 8 terminals has
been provided to allow foreign exchange, travel, PCO, concierges facility or any special front desk
operational requirement.

Meeting Rooms

It includes 32 breakout rooms, including specialized

meeting rooms, speaker preparatory rooms, boardrooms,
VIP lounge. Each meeting office has a suite of floor rooms,
which includes arrival lounge area for organizers guest of
30 sq.m., a workstation office of 27 sq. m. & private
organizers office.

Main Convention Hall

It covers 56% of Ground coverage. It has area of 6480 sq.

m. It has the capacity of 5000 delegate plenary & it can be
partitioned into 6 smaller halls. A spacious pre-function foyer area of total 890 square meters, State-of-
the-art IT infrastructure, design, technology, telecommunications and AV equipment. 12.5 meter high
ceiling, roof catwalks and truss to withhold heavy suspensions in plenary hall. The partitions are done by
using sound proff, built in USA, covered with teak & silk. Partitions run with a track concealment system.
Projection Screen of 18’x16’ is provided.

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

Accessibility

The universal design approach is followed. Differently able

people can reach many parts of building. The wheelchair
lift is provided.

Design Inferences

Standard Area

Zoning

Service allocations

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)
 Convention Center
Design Studio VI

3.4 VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTERS WEST

Vancouver Convention Centre East (Original Building)

 Originally built as Canada Pavilion for 1986 Expo, with 133,000 sq feet of
meeting/exhibition/ballroom space
 Currently hosts more than 300 events annually with almost 600,000 delegate days each year;
generating $213 million in annual economic activity (Fiscal 2008)

Selection Criteria

To study Green Features in Convention Center

Vancouver Convention Centre West (Expansion)

 Groundbreaking: November 8, 2004;

Completion: March 15, 2009
 Opening: April 3, 2009
 Total area of expansion: 1.2 million square
feet (111,500 m²)
 60 per cent of expansion is over land; 40 per
cent is over water
 Total area of meeting space (west and east
combined): approximately 500,000 ft² (
46,450 m²); more than triple the existing
space
 Canada's largest waterfront convention
centre ballroom at 55,000 ft with dramatic
five story ceilings and spectacular mountain
vistas
 Total cost of expansion: $883.2 million

Pukar Bhandari
(070/BAE/225)