Orange County Convention Center: Phase III Expansion
Orlando, Florida
On the heels of two previous expansion phases of this Convention Center, Orange County determined that the Center's location held enormous potential as a business destination and meeting venue. The projected needs demanded a plan for a "mega" expansion to help the Center realize its potential and maintain a competitive place in the fast growing convention and trade show markets.
The existing materials and finishes became the basic palette for the expansion design. The use of precast concrete played an important role in maintaining the integrity of the preceding building as a component of the new integrated design. Precast is the dominant material on the building's facade, and it was also used extensively as an interior finish as column covers, and as a wainscot in all of the public spaces. As a wainscot, the precast was more than merely a protective finish. It also served as a structural base and the major component for the lower portion of the walls.
Precast dominates the exterior faces of the entire complex. Other exterior precast features include soffits and overhangs to shade the large glazed entry areas, and provide weather protection for the pedestrian walkways.
Designer: Thompson Ventulett Stainback & Assoc., Inc. Atlanta, GA
Precast Manufacturer: Gate Precast Company, Monroeville, Alabama
Photographer: Ben Tanner
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